Kuala Lampur, March 1 -- A recent Los Angeles Times article describes Generation Z as living in an "always on, always judged" environment, where even purchasing decisions are shaped by how they will appear online.

A handbag that appears repeatedly in photos makes more sense to them than a salad that disappears in one sitting. The logic reflects a generation that has grown up curating a visible identity.

Many employers read stories like this and conclude that Gen Z is overly concerned with image. I believe that interpretation misses a deeper point.

What the article highlights is that Gen Z has internalised the idea that life is public. Their social media presence is not separate from their identity; it forms part of it.

As one intervie...