The world 4 years after COVID-19
From T.V. shows to business and activism, the pandemic marked major shifts in all areas of life
Wearing masks around others was one of the first changes people made to their daily lives to help stop the spread of COVID-19. (Unsplash/Yoav Aziz)
Four years have passed since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, a period marked by seismic shifts that have reshaped the world in profound ways. First detected in Wuhan, China, in late 2019, the virus swiftly escalated into a global crisis, leaving an indelible mark on societies, economies, and daily life.
As I reflect on this transformative journey, it’s evident that the pandemic has acted as a catalyst for unprecedented changes, shaping not only the global response to health crises, but the fabric of our interconnected world.
The traditional workplace underwent a revolution as remote work shifted from an exception to the norm. Lockdowns and social-distancing measures forced businesses to adapt swiftly as digital communication tools and remote collaboration platforms became integral to daily operations. This shift not only altered how we work, but prompted a broader re-evaluation of work-life balance and the necessity of physical office spaces.
T.V. shows became a mirror, reflecting the challenges posed by the pandemic. Series like Grey’s Anatomy and Station 19 creatively integrated real-world scenarios, incorporating elements such as social distancing and the use of telemedicine. By doing so, these shows added authenticity to their narratives, allowing viewers to connect with the characters on a personal level while shedding light on the evolving nature of health care and emergency response.
The pandemic also intensified the fight against racial injustices. The Black Lives Matter movement, which addresses systemic racism and police brutality, gained momentum, as did the Stop Asian American Pacific Islander hate movement, which addressed the surge in anti-Asian violence linked to the pandemic’s origins. These movements underscored the intersectionality of struggles faced by marginalized communities and emphasized the interconnectedness of racial disparities in health care, employment, and education.
On social media platforms like TikTok and YouTube, a new era of digital influencers emerged. TikTok, with its short-form, visually engaging content, became a global stage for creativity and expression. Influencers like Chris Olsen and Kris Collins found a platform to connect with audiences worldwide, showcasing the democratization of content creation.
One standout success story during this period was MrBeast, who transitioned from creating entertaining stunts and challenges to philanthropic endeavors. His influence extended beyond YouTube, making him a notable figure in charitable initiatives, leveraging the platform’s reach for positive impact.
Alongside these positive shifts, the long-term effects of the pandemic manifested in the form of long COVID. Individuals who survived the acute phase of the illness continued to experience lingering symptoms, affecting their physical and mental well-being. The medical community grappled with understanding and treating these persistent symptoms, emphasizing the importance of ongoing research and support systems for those affected.
For many, the pandemic brought profound personal loss as loved ones succumbed to the virus. This collective grief permeated various aspects of life, emphasizing the importance of empathy and support. Despite the challenges, communities sought solace in shared narratives that echoed their own struggles.
As I reflect on this period, I found it’s a personal journey as well. The pandemic began during my first semester in university, and now, as I find myself in my last semester, the journey symbolizes not only personal growth but also a witness to global changes. The world, shaped by technological evolution, societal transformation, and ongoing health challenges, stands as a testament to resilience, adaptation, and the imperative for continued collaboration and support systems in navigating the lasting impacts of the pandemic.
