Watch: #DearMe Campaign: What Advice Would You Give Your Younger Self?

Remember what it was like to be a teenager? It’s not easy. If you could speak to your younger self, what advice or encouragement would you give? 

In honor of International Women’s Day (March 8th), YouTube is asking people around the world to empower teenage girls by uploading a video letter to their younger selves. This is part of the #DearMe campaign, officially launching Tuesday, March 3.

Many YouTube stars are participating in the campaign and sharing their personal experiences, including Grace Helbig, Michelle Phan, Felicia Day, Hannah Hart, Lindsey Stirling and Bunny Meyers. These young women serve as positive role models and online advocates for a variety of important teen issues. They talk about bullying, being different, and why you shouldn’t stress about your looks or how cool you are. YouTube is the ideal place for kids to share their interests, experiences, and offer each other support. 

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In YouTube favorite Grace Helbig’s video, she talks about being afraid of everything when she was younger — and how she shouldn’t have been afraid of being afraid. Putting yourself out there, revealing your insecurities, and socializing with people you don’t know are all essential experiences to have while growing up. As an improv comedian, Helbig learned to “say yes” to opportunities and new people. Instead of avoiding things that make you uncomfortable, you should “follow your fear,” she advises.

#DearMe has been supported by Caroline Kennedy (US ambassador to Japan), Lorraine Candy (Editor in Chief of British Elle magazine) and Gigi Chao (LGBT Activist in Hong Kong).   

Take part by uploading a video letter to your younger self on YouTube and join the conversation with #DearMe on social media. 

And check out Grace Helbig’s #DearMe contribution here:

         
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