East End businessman and philanthropist Jack Petchey joined tomorrow’s leaders for lunch last Wednesday to discuss issues affecting young people.

Six members of Newham Youth Council met with Mr Petchey at his foundation headquarters in Ilford, where they also outlined their aims for the year.

These include providing more activities and opportunities for youngsters.

Deputy Young Mayor Adam Khaliq, 16, voiced his wish to offer more young people a platform to express their views, highly rating the Jack Petchey Speak Out Challenge.

Adam has taken part in the challenge, a public speaking competition between more than 18,000 young people on subjects of their choice.

He said it demonstrated the ability within today’s youth to offer well-constructed, intelligent and thought-provoking arguments which can lead to real change.

Mr Petchey told the group about his early life and road to success, as well as advising them on the importance of setting goals.

Council member Pelumi Agbedejobi, 15, a pupil at East Lea Community School, said: “Jack Petchey has really inspired me to reach my own goals.”

The group also spoke about technology and the importance of volunteering and sports.