
74% of young adults in Wales want to be positive role models
The study, conducted by The National Lottery with Gen Z expert Chloe Combi, surveyed 5,000 young adults across the UK.
It found that 74 per cent of young people in Wales feel a personal responsibility to set a positive example, compared to 79 per cent nationally.
A further 79 per cent were concerned about the impact of toxic role models, prompting many to take proactive steps in real life.
Across Wales, this is already happening, with 77 per cent of young adults surveyed saying they have taken part in a community project in the past year.
68 per cent want even more opportunities to get involved, from volunteering to leading local initiatives.
One Welsh person getting involved is table tennis champion Anna Hursey.
She became the youngest-ever Welsh Commonwealth Games athlete, won bronze in 2022 and represented Team GB at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
She is now a UN ambassador for climate in sport.
Chloe Combi, author and Gen Z researcher, said: "This incredible research from The National Lottery and myself both highlights and confirms what I've seen for over a decade – young people are deeply committed to community and change.
"They are nothing like the self-absorbed stereotype often portrayed in the media.
"Their admiration for role models who foster social good is refreshing and powerful."
Thanks to the £30 million raised every week by National Lottery players, thousands of projects are funded across the arts, sport, heritage, and community sectors.
Jonathan Tuchner, from The National Lottery Promotions Unit, said: "This study shows how passionate young adults are about stepping up as positive role models and making a difference in their communities.
"They're determined to shape a better society, and that commitment deserves real recognition.
"Every day, we see National Lottery-funded projects led by and involving young people transforming lives through sport, the arts, heritage and community."
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