7 August 2017

The First Minister today announced the winner of the ‘First Mentor’ competition – Charlotte Liddell of Buckhaven in Fife.

Launched on International Women’s Day in March, the initiative will see the successful applicant mentored by the First Minister for a period of one year – and it is designed to highlight the importance of women in leadership roles mentoring young women.

Congratulations to Charlotte Liddell from Buckhaven, announced winner of #FirstMentor today! pic.twitter.com/wSttifldZZ

— First Minister (@ScotGovFM) August 7, 2017

The announcement was made at Fife Gingerbread in Leven, where 20-year-old Charlotte volunteers.

The First Minister said:

“Charlotte immediately struck me as someone with the passion and determination to make a difference to her community and to young people – especially for those who face tough challenges in life.”

“Charlotte is a really impressive young woman who has already achieved so much and I hope the mentoring experience over the next year will be of real benefit to her and help her achieve her ambitions for the future. I am looking forward to sharing my experiences with Charlotte – but I have no doubt that I will also learn a lot from her.”

The press pack are here to see Charlotte and @ScotGovFM as they have a chat about the year ahead. #firstmentor pic.twitter.com/wU72bd857R

— Young Scot (@YoungScot) August 7, 2017

Ms Liddell said:

“I want to inspire others just as the First Minister inspired me.

“I want people to know that no matter what happens in your life, you can still succeed.”

“Too often, young people are told they will never amount to anything – especially young parents. By being chosen for this mentorship, I hope I will help other young people to believe in themselves – especially those whose voices are not heard.”

The first mentorship meeting will take place next week.