RAiSE celebration event, The Wood Foundation

In just four weeks’ time, we will welcome hundreds of young changemakers to Scotland’s largest celebration of youth philanthropy – the YPI National Event 2025.

This year’s event theme – Be the Change – is a powerful call to action.

Each year, the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) – managed and majority funded by The Wood Foundation – brings together secondary school pupils from across the country to explore issues such as mental health, diversity, and addiction.

Through YPI, a generation has been empowered to lead the force in driving change that is community-focused, sustainable, equitable and impactful.

The YPI National Event is more than just a celebration – it is a gathering of minds and hearts. Young people, teachers, charity representatives, and keynote speakers will come together to share inspirational stories and reflect on the impact of youth-led philanthropy over the 2024/25 academic year.

We are celebrating pupils who have taken the time to understand the needs of their local communities, championed charities close to their hearts, and shown a genuine commitment to making a difference.

For many young people, YPI is just the beginning. We encourage them to continue volunteering with local organisations and stay engaged with the causes they are passionate about. We are incredibly proud of how this generation is embracing philanthropy, building empathy, and stepping up as leaders of positive, sustainable change.

We look forward to seeing how they continue to “Be the Change” well beyond the National Event at Perth Concert Hall on 11 June. For some, this experience may even inspire an interest in careers within the third sector – where their passion and purpose can continue to grow and contribute to lasting social impact.