Marlona Buchanan: The Rising Star Rewriting History in Youth Advocacy

At just twenty-four, Marlona Buchanan stands at the forefront of a new generation transforming public discourse through advocacy, innovation, and unwavering commitment. Recognized as one of the leading voices in youth leadership, she is redefining what it means to drive change—with momentum fueled by passion, precision, and purpose. Her ascent reflects not only personal brilliance but also a broader shift toward younger generations demanding accountability and reshaping societal norms.

Buchanan’s influence spans environmental activism, educational reform, and policy innovation—domains once dominated by seasoned experts but now increasingly shaped by her sharp insight and grassroots connectivity. Unlike traditional approaches, she leverages digital platforms, storytelling, and coalition-building to amplify marginalized perspectives, drawing attention to underrepresented issues such as climate justice for youth and equitable access to learning resources. “I don’t seek permission to challenge the status quo—my generation’s urgency demands action now,” she has stated in a candid interview with .

This defiance, paired with strategic communication, has made her a compelling figure in both media circles and policy forums.

Born and raised in Edinburgh, Buchanan’s journey into public influence began early. During secondary school, she founded a student-led initiative promoting sustainable campus practices, later expanding into a nationwide network recognized by the Scottish Government.

Her work combined education, community mobilization, and data-driven advocacy—proving that youth-led movements can deliver measurable impact. Since then, she has become a sought-after commentator and speaker, contributing op-eds to

The defining feature of Buchanan’s rise is her ability to blend authenticity with strategic acumen. She maintains a powerful social media presence—particularly on LinkedIn and TikTok—where complex policy issues are distilled into accessible, viral-ready content.

Her analyses of youth unemployment, green transitions, and digital equity have surpassed tens of millions of views, earning praise from both peers and skeptics. “I speak not as a leader, but as one of you—someone who’s walked the streets, sat in classrooms, and stood on unlikely stages,” she explains in a recent panel at TEDxYouth@Edinburgh.

Central to her impact is a consistent focus on inclusion and representation. Buchanan actively mentors young activists from working-class and minority backgrounds, emphasizing that leadership must reflect the diversity of the communities it seeks to serve.

“Too often, youth voices are tokenized—we need spaces where real influence, not just visibility, is given,” she asserts. In 2023, she launched the *Future Catalyst Fund*, providing grants and training to over 150 emerging leaders across Europe and North America.

Her accolades underscore a generational shift in recognition: in 2022, she was named one of ’s 100 Next, sharing the spotlight with innovators already reshaping their fields. Politicians, nonprofit directors, and corporate partners increasingly consult her not just as an expert, but as a movement builder.

A native of Scotland’s vibrant civic scene, Buchanan now contributes to global dialogues—from the United Nations Youth Forum to European Parliament youth consultations—pushing for structural reforms anchored in youth agency.

While her momentum is undeniable, Buchanan remains grounded by pragmatism. She acknowledges the limits of individual influence but counters with collective action: “I inspire others not to follow me blindly, but to find their own voice, sharpen it, and act.” Her blend of idealism and tactical realism positions her not just as a rising star, but as a lasting force in modern advocacy. As she continues to challenge entrenched systems, Marlona Buchanan embodies a new paradigm: youth leadership not as a trend, but as an essential catalyst for sustainable change.

The Blueprint of Her Influence

- Grassroots mobilization grounded in community needs - Digital storytelling transforming niche issues into global conversations - Intersection of environmental justice, education equity, and youth employment - Mentorship as a core force multiplier for underrepresented leaders - Strategic partnerships bridging youth voices with policy decision-makers With a trajectory marked by clarity of purpose and relentless action, Marlona Buchanan is not just rising—she is redefining the future of leadership.

Her story challenges institutions to listen, adapt, and act, ensuring that youth are no longer bystanders but architects of change. The foundation she builds today will echo in tomorrow’s progress.