Role models and influence (links to 'Describe a person you admire')

1. What qualities do you think make someone a good role model?

I’d say integrity is the foundation of a good role model – someone whose actions match their words, even when nobody’s watching. On top of that, resilience really matters; people who bounce back from failure send a powerful message. Finally, a genuine concern for others is crucial. If a person uses their talent or success to lift other people up, that’s when they truly become worth emulating.

2. Why are some celebrities considered role models even though people have never met them?

In my view, it’s largely because the media creates a kind of polished narrative around them. We see carefully edited snapshots of their lives, so it feels like we know them personally. On top of that, people project their own hopes and insecurities onto these public figures. Celebrities often represent a lifestyle or set of values that people aspire to, so they become symbolic role models rather than real acquaintances.

3. Do you think children today have good role models to look up to?

It’s a mixed picture. There are fantastic role models out there – scientists, athletes, activists, even YouTubers – who promote curiosity, hard work and kindness. However, children are also bombarded with influencers who glorify superficial things like appearance and wealth. So I suppose the key issue isn’t the lack of good role models, but whether adults help children choose who to follow more critically.

4. How much influence do parents have on the values of their children?

Parents still have a tremendous influence, especially in the early years, because children mainly learn values by observing everyday behaviour at home. If parents are honest, respectful and responsible, those attitudes tend to rub off. That said, as children grow older, peers and social media start to compete with parental influence. Ultimately, parents lay the foundation, but society builds additional layers on top of it.