Earlier this month, West Yorkshire's brightest young innovators and entrepreneurs were celebrated for their brilliant ideas to help other young people's wellbeing, as Mayor Tracy Brabin hosted a special celebration event for the ‘Mayor's Big Ideas Challenge’. 

The challenge, launched in February, led by the West Yorkshire Combined Authority, and delivered by TPXimpact aimed to foster new ideas to boost the health and happiness of young individuals in the area. After months of hard work, the celebration event honoured finalists, recognising their entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to making a real, positive difference.

Recent data indicates an unsettling trend: a growing number of young people aged 15–24 are experiencing lower happiness levels compared to older generations (1). Furthermore, the happiness of 16 to 25-year-olds concerning work, education, qualifications, and finances has plummeted to its lowest point since 2009 (2). In West Yorkshire, this could significantly hinder the aspirations, mental health, and future plans of its young residents. The initiative's primary goal is to prioritise the well-being of West Yorkshire's youth and transform the region into a place of happiness.

Throughout the programme, participants received mentorship provided by RTC North on behalf of the West Yorkshire Combined Authority and TPX impact. The challenge prompted participants to present ideas aimed at enhancing the lives of young people living, working, or studying in West Yorkshire. The focus areas included physical and mental health, social connections, and future aspirations. Participants were able to hone essential skills such as user research, analysis, and creativity, while also meeting with successful innovators.

Gail Leathley from RTC North, who mentored some of the participants and attended the celebration event comments on the significance of this initiative:

“Over the past few months, I’ve had the privilege of mentoring an extraordinary group of young, talented individuals. Their passion, drive, enthusiasm, and intelligence were truly inspiring. Watching them speak with such confidence and authenticity at the final celebration event left me in awe. It reminded me just how powerful and promising this young generation truly are. The experience not only deepened my appreciation for their potential, but also transformed me as a mentor, challenging me to listen more closely, guide more intentionally, and continue learning alongside them.”

Discover more about the West Yorkshire Combined Authority’s initiatives here: https://www.wybusiness-skills.com/