The driving objective of YPI is to empower young people, #generationchange, with the platform to make a difference about the causes which matter to them. YPI National Coordinator Alex Reid talks about why this investment is vital for now and the future.

“Young people are not only the leaders of the future. They have fresh and unique perspectives that must be recognised today to ensure fair and progressive decision making. 

“Established social structures can make young people feel they are part of a problem they can’t fix. YPI provides an outlet for young people to have real responsibility and understand their potential to be part of the solution. 

“Often, the social issues represented through YPI are those of which young people have first-hand experience. Who better to advocate than someone who has lived experience of the far-reaching ramifications of issues including poverty and mental health? By imbuing young people with the confidence, skills, and platform to be a respected voice, a gateway is opened to lifelong active citizenship.

“Through YPI, young people are tackling subjects that previously held a degree of stigma. Empowering this generation to have these conversations openly is so important as we change the narrative around issues such as mental health, poverty, and domestic abuse. These presentations can be truly life-changing, regardless of whether or not a YPI grant is secured. 

“The past six months have accelerated the pace of change across the world. We have seen local, national, and international examples of people demanding change. It is so important that as we build back better, young people are part of the recovery which will impact their futures.”