Young Islanders and Big Ideas

large group of people waving their hands in the air, some kneeling at the from and most standing in a semi-circle shape facing the camera.

On Monday the 14^th August, Young Islanders from the Isle of Lewis, Tiree and Orkney attended Youth Scotland’s 2023 Big Ideas.

Big Ideas is a residential event (this year held in Stirling) and is all about engaging, inspiring and empowering young people and youth workers to take the lead in their local communities. This 2 day event comprised an action-packed programme of fun and engaging workshops for young people and a separate workshop list for workers to ignite new ideas and gain new experiences. As part of the Young Islanders Network, our young people were offered a free place at Big Ideas and were also able to stay an extra night at the university Halls.

5 young people sitting in a row smiling with glitter make up

Throughout the 2 days, our young islanders- Mathew and Saphire from the Isle of Tiree, Vee, Maimie and Cameron from Isle of Lewis and Iona, Blake, Taylor and Anja from Orkney,took part in a series of workshops and challenges of their own choice. The wide range of options including festival Mind and draw sessions, outdoor challenges, ice breakers and special effects makeup-Mathew giving us all a fright appearing for the evening games still with a very convincing bruise on his face.

young person sitting at table with paint bottles, drawing a picture from their phone

young person, smiling and holding up two small bottles one blue an done brown of homemade potions.

5 young islanders from Orkney holding their award certificates — Our Orkney Young Islanders with their Hi5 awards

young person with blue hoodie and special effects make up and glitter festival make up

See quotes below from our young islanders on how they found the experience.

Matthew was also invited to support the Youth Scotland senior management team to show MSP Graeme Day, Minister for Higher and Further Education and Minister for Veterans, around the campus.

5 people standing in a room with a table in the front full of artwork. people all wearing lanyards and smiling.

If you are interested in taking part next year, make sure and stay up to date with your newsletter and our social media.