AN Ardrossan schoolgirl was part of a group of more than 1,000 youngsters addressing issues such as mental health, isolation, LGBTQ+ and period poverty at a national event in Perth.

Amy Palmer, who attends Ardrossan Academy, was at The Wood Foundation’s Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) which celebrated achievements at the Perth Concert Hall.

And the 1,000 youngsters were joined by a further 200 delegates from the education, third and public sectors for an afternoon of inspirational talks, performances and music.

More than 15 schools took to the stage to represent the issues they secured YPI grants for and share what they have achieved through the programme this academic year, as well as challenging their peers to consider how they will continue their own philanthropy. The theme of this year’s event was #generationchange, exploring the ways in which young people are impacting the society of today and creating the society of the future.

Sir Ian Wood KT GBE, Chairman of The Wood Foundation, said: “In this digital world, our generation of young people are undoubtedly ready for change and it is through initiatives such as YPI that we can support them to achieve just that.

“The maturity and confidence shown by the young people at this year’s event was again very impressive.

“The central tenet of philanthropy is caring, using time and skills to make a difference. This was clear to see at the National Event and gives me a great degree of hope for the future.”

The event’s keynote speakers were social justice and human rights campaigner Amal Azzudin and social entrepreneur Alan Mahon. Entertainment was provided by Edinburgh singer-songwriter Callum Beattie.