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YPI Showcase

March 2026

Brights Sparks Shine at Showcase

The judging panel took an exceptionally long time to make their decision - a sign that it was a very tough judgment to make - but this year’s Youth Philanthropy Initiative showcase saw Bright Sparks lift the £3000 cheque for their chosen local charity. Well done to Benaiah, Vikky, Zoja and Kaiya.

All groups performed very well and showed a real dedication to their charities. Adam, Liam, Ethan and Matthew shared Simba stories with their memory boxes on show. Edinburgh Children’s Hospital Charity was championed by Lucy and Issy, who personally raised money with a successful S1 Christmas Movie and popcorn afternoon. Broomhill Day Centre was highlighted by Mia, Ava and Orla and as a result of the passion shown by the group, they will be our nominated school charity for session 2026-27.

The evening was ably hosted by the 2023 winners Charlie, Gracie and Eva (British Heart Foundation), sharing their own YPI experience over the years, which included speaking at the national event in Perth and a video tribute to the ‘One Direction’ nature of this combined group. Also assisting were last year’s winners Hania and Sophia for the MS Society who revealed how they have continued to work with the charity since their success.

Between presentations two and three however, we were reminded that although winning is super, the journey is also important. Our nominated school charity for session 2025-26 CHAS were our mid way ‘break’ in the evening: while they did not win last year, Lily, Aimee, Brodie and Oliver have been fantastic charity ambassadors; supporting the Sponsored Walk last September, sharing their presentation in assemblies and being true role models for this year’s YPI cohort.

This was the tenth YPI final held in Beeslack and throughout the evening past and present YPI finalists shared their YPI stories and memories, describing the impact that YPI had on them. We were particularly pleased to welcome Sinead and Mairi from our first ever YPI winning group (Hopscotch) and Chloe from our second winning group (MYPAS) was on the judging panel. Beeslack staff shared their thoughts as well; it is clear that YPI is not just for pupils but is special to many of our staff too.

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Also on public display were all the giant cheques given out over the years, evidence of just part of over £30,000 which has been given to good causes over the ten years. There were balloon sculptures, refreshments from our amazing school Baristas and anniversary cupcakes for everyone to share. Although all our showcases are unique celebrations, this one was definitely extra special!

We are incredibly grateful to Ms Carrie for her continued dedication to YPI over the years. The showcase is only possible thanks to her commitment, alongside the wider staff team who support and guide our young people every step of the way.

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