In an era where younger generations are often analyzed, debated, and misunderstood, one filmmaker is choosing a different approach. Instead of speaking about Gen Z, Raquel is listening.
Her upcoming documentary, I Hear You, Gen Z, is not built on assumptions or expert commentary. It is grounded in raw, unfiltered conversations with young people navigating a rapidly changing world. The result is a project that aims to shift the narrative from interpretation to understanding, offering a platform where voices are heard rather than translated.
A Cross Country Journey of Listening
The film began with a simple but powerful idea. What if adults stopped talking and started listening?
To answer that, Raquel traveled across the United States in an RV, sitting down with individuals between the ages of 16 and 26. These conversations were not guided by scripts or agendas. Instead, they created space for authenticity, allowing participants to share their realities in their own words.
This approach reflects Raquel’s broader work in youth engagement. Through more than 160 conversations with Gen Z, she has built a foundation of trust that extends beyond the documentary. She currently hosts two podcasts that further amplify young voices. Raq The Boat features guests under 18, while Rated Gen Z focuses on individuals between 18 and 26, continuing her mission to create spaces where youth feel genuinely heard.
Reframing the Conversation Around Gen Z
Much of today’s discourse positions Gen Z as a challenge to be solved. From mental health struggles to economic pressures, the generation is frequently discussed in terms of problems and solutions.
I Hear You, Gen Z flips that perspective. Rather than analyzing the generation from a distance, the film invites audiences to hear directly from those living the experience. It highlights the emotional, social, and economic realities shaping young people today, without filtering their voices through external interpretation.
“The most powerful thing an adult can do right now is stop talking and start listening. That’s what this film is about,” Raquel shares.
Collaboration and Storytelling with Purpose
The documentary brings together a team of storytellers committed to amplifying youth voices. Filmmakers Brian Mulvey and Seth Tucker collaborated with Raquel to capture these conversations, while approximately 30 Gen Z participants contribute their perspectives.
Behind the project is Raqvision LLC, a San Diego based youth empowerment brand focused on creating media that resonates with younger audiences. Through storytelling and content creation, the company aims to provide a platform where young people feel seen, heard, and valued.
Looking Ahead to Release
Scheduled for release in summer 2026, the documentary is currently exploring distribution opportunities, including streaming platforms and film festivals. While details are still being finalized, the project is already generating attention for its timely and necessary message.
At a moment when generational divides feel more pronounced than ever, I Hear You, Gen Z offers something refreshingly simple. It creates space for dialogue, empathy, and understanding, while extending that mission beyond film through podcasting and ongoing youth engagement.
Learn More
To follow updates on the documentary and explore more about the mission behind it, visit:
https://raq.vision/
You can also listen to Raquel’s podcasts:
Raq The Boat: https://youtube.com/@raqtheboat?feature=shared
Rated Gen Z: https://youtube.com/@ratedgenzpodcast?si=hKFL9t55mmRPz57f
