Everyone’s seen the multiple hashtags on Twitter and Instagram: #BlackLivesMatter, #WeNeedFeminismBecause and many others. These hashtags have quickly gained attention because of their popularity among young adults and teens.

Despite this, very few celebrity teens choose to speak out on social issues, but the few that do are quickly gaining the recognition and are becoming some of the most influential figures for our generation. Jaden Smith and Amandla Stenberg are two of these influential teens. 

Smith shocked most of America when he became the face for Louis Vuitton’s new “Womenswear!” line. Louis Vuitton’s creative director, Nicolas Ghesquiere, chose Instagram to do the official reveal, and pretty soon, everyone started talking.

Ghesquiere sent out a press release in which talked about why he chose Smith as the new face and said that, “he represents a generation that has assimilated the codes of true freedom, one that is free of manifestos and questions about gender.”

Many people agree that gender has become a somewhat abstract term because it’s no longer just “male and female;” more genders are being recognized and acknowledged.

Smith has been stepping out and doing things that some may consider abnormal, but others see as brave and admirable. He’s challenging gender norms and making a statement about blurring the lines between femininity and masculinity.

Stenberg is mostly known for her role as Rue in the box office hit, The Hunger Games, but has recently gained attention for speaking out about the Black Lives Matter movement and feminism.

“While white women are praised for altering their bodies, plumping their lips and tanning their skin, black women are shamed although the same features exist on them naturally,” Stenberg tweeted.

Even though her comments may be seen as controversial, Stenberg continues to speak out about cultural appropriation and continually uplifts and praises people of color for their courage and ability to love themselves.

Regardless of age, these two are choosing to speak out and let the world know that teens do have the ability to voice their opinion, and that they do have an influence in promoting change in society.