• by Laurie Sullivan  @lauriesullivan, June 11, 2013

While 76% of global millennials -- 18- to-30-year-olds in 27 countries -- own a smartphone, it may come as a surprise that many attribute technology to the foundation that drives global change.

The findings from a Telefonica study identify young leaders who are most likely to drive change through technology. The global 11% who will drive change through technology are found at the intersection of "I am on the cutting edge of technology" and "I believe I can make a local difference." The top five countries include Colombia, Peru, KSA, Chile and Venezuela, compared with the bottom five: Czech Republic, Russia, Italy, Korea, and Japan.

More than half of millennial leaders are "very optimistic" about change, compared with 79% who believe their "country's best days are ahead," and 74% "who believe they can make a global difference." In the U.S., 83% are confident in their ability to make a difference in their local communities.

Globally, some 61% believe technology makes language barriers easier to overcome, 83% believe technology makes it easier to get a job, and 69% said it creates more opportunities, according to the study.

More than 62% of millennials taking part in the Telefonica survey believe they can change the local political environment, and 40% think they can change it globally. More than two-thirds believe they can become entrepreneurs in the own countries, and three-quarters feel they have the most opportunity. Most think about personal advancements, nearly half believe that having a well-paying job is a privilege, and many name the environment and the economy as critical issues both for their generation and in terms of success.

About 80% of men believe they sit on the cutting-edge of technology, compared with 69% of women. More men than women -- 39% versus 22%, respectively -- believe technology has been more influential in shaping their outlook on life. Some 42% of men vs. 28% of women believe technology is the most important field of study to ensure future success.

Millennials also rely on technology to save money. One in four -- or 24% -- use daily deal Web sites or social group buying Web sites, and in the past six months about 40% of U.S. millennials have bought a discount, coupon or deal on one of these daily deal or social group buying Web sites. Before making a purchase, 22% use peer-reviewed Web sites, 19% visit critic-reviewed Web sites, and 18% use e-mails from companies or brands.