Young people from across Scotland were in Perth to show they have the X Factor when it comes to supporting good causes.
After explaining to philanthropist and businessman Sir Ian Wood how they had directed nearly £430,000 from his family foundation to local grassroots charities in the past year, they were entertained by singer Matt Cardle.
Sir Ian admitted he did not know of the X Factor winner but was delighted to hear from the young audience at Perth Concert Hall that they certainly did.
Pupils from 140 Scottish secondary schools were at the concert hall to celebrate the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) year.
The event recognised the involvement of more than 18,000 Scottish secondary school students who have taken part this year, advocating why charities they feel passionately about should receive financial backing.
Among those Sir Ian met were Eve Thomson, George Sheen and John Craib from Crieff High School, along with their teacher Lesley Venters.
With school-mate Lucas Snellgrove, who could not attend yesterday’s event, they spoke up for Strathearn Building Bridges which received £3,000 through YPI. Set up by a group of parents, it helps young people with learning difficulties and disabilities through social clubs, sports sessions and other regular events.
Sir Ian was impressed by what he heard, saying: “The most exciting thing is that the youngsters continue to think about philanthropy and often continue their charitable activities.
“It is encouraging to see the impact the students are making in their communities when they suddenly realise just what they can do. To be able to open young people’s eyes to the world around them is empowering. One of my hopes is that this young generation will be a lot more caring and tolerant than, certainly, my generation. Introducing them to philanthropy through YPI provides young people with unique opportunities to help the more vulnerable in our society.”
The programme is managed and delivered in 143 secondary schools in Scotland by the Wood Foundation (TWF), a charitable foundation established by Sir Ian and his family in 2007.