SHE had a troubled, problematic childhood.
But now a teenager from Huddersfield has been chosen as a young ambassador for a national youth charity.
Kelly Wilson, from Marsh, was asked to represent The Prince’s Trust after graduating from a 12-week self development programme.
Kelly, 18, told the Examiner she was ‘off the rails’ before she received help from the charity.
She was suspended from Royds Hall High School, Paddock, a number of times.
“The people I hung around with used to get in trouble all the time,” she said.
“I was always getting excluded and I had totally the wrong attitude.
“I knew I really had to change because I’ve got goals and I want to work with children in the future.”
Kelly said she became a tearaway because of family problems and the feeling she had no one to turn to.
She said she couldn’t trust her friends, but has since made lots of new ones with help from The Prince’s Trust.
The 18-year-old took part in team-building activities and a week long residential visit while with the charity.
She also completed two weeks of work experience at a school in Longley, where she worked with disabled children.
“I wanted to prove to people that I could do something with my life.
“No one seemed to think that I could turn my life around,” she added.
“And when I finished the programme and got myself a job they were all surprised – which gave me a great feeling inside.”
Kelly will now volunteer her time to speak to the community, take part in debates and speak to local MPs.
She said: “Not a lot of people gave me a second chance.
“But when The Prince’s Trust offered me one and didn’t judge me on my past mistakes, it meant a lot to me .
“Now I want to do the same for other young people.”
Peter Branson, Yorkshire’s regional director of The Prince’s Trust added: “If we keep telling young people that they are layabouts, losers and junkies, there is a real danger that they will believe they can’t do anything different.
“The Young Ambassadors initiative gives young people like Kelly a voice, letting the public know about the positive difference they can and do make to their communities.”
l The Prince’s Trust was formed in 1973 by the Prince of Wales, who had just left the Royal Navy.
He vowed to help thousands of youngsters who had no training or practical skills.
Now the Trust offers grants to help young people start up businesses.
It also offers grants for personal development and skills training
Much of the fundraising comes through huge rock concerts and other high-profile public ventures.
As in Kelly’s case, the Trust offers personal 12-week courses to improve the lives of young adults.
It also provides youth clubs for 14-16-year-olds.
