Meet the 'First Mentee'

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon 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.

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 number and quality of applications to be my mentee was exceptional and narrowing it down to just one was a really tough decision. There are clearly a lot of very talented young women out there with much to offer. I once again call on leaders throughout Scotland to consider taking on a mentee – the next generation of female leaders is here and it is the duty of women of my generation to do what we can to help them on their way.”

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 competition was run in conjunction with Young Scot, and more than 200 applications were received from young women across the country.

Louise Macdonald, Chief Executive of Young Scot, said:

“The First Mentor programme is a fantastic opportunity to shine a spotlight on the power of mentoring for young women in Scotland. Through the application process we were able to see just how many brilliant young women have the potential to become leaders themselves. We want to show young women that there are no limits, no matter who you are, and that everyone can benefit from having or being a mentor.

“Charlotte is an amazing young woman; she wants to change the world. We’ve all been so inspired by her already and I am sure the mentoring experience will be great for both Charlotte and the First Minister.”

Rhona Cunningham, CEO, Fife Gingerbread said:

“Charlotte is such an inspiration to us all, and we are delighted that she has been given this much deserved opportunity. She does so much for so many; her determination and positive attitude are remarkable.

“It really is a privilege to have her volunteer for us, and we know Charlotte will go on to be whatever she wants to be in life. Massive well done from everyone at Fife Gingerbread!”