Registration still open for the Rural Youth Ideas Festival

The Rural Youth Project is a research-based initiative which aims to facilitate the involvement of young people in agricultural and rural activity. The scheme develops strategies to support Scotland’s rural youth by better understanding their current situation, aspirations, opportunities and challenges.

The Rural Youth Project has been awarded £73,814.24 from Perth & Kinross LEADER to hold the ‘Rural Youth Ideas Festival’ in Kinross next week (1^st – 3^rd August). The Festival, themed ‘Be the Change YOU Want to See’, marks the completion of the first Rural Youth Project survey, and the results of the survey will be announced during the festival. This online initiative was launched in February 2018 to discover what is important to young people, aged 18-28, living and working in rural areas, and what measures need to be taken to sustain young people in the rural economy.

Jackie Brierton MBE, Chair of Rural Perth & Kinross LEADER said:
 
“The festival will bring together young people who have already shown leadership potential in their own communities, organisations and work places, and give them the opportunity to develop new networks, skills and make connections with potential mentors. The event will be working with micro-businesses and using local Scottish food, making a valuable contribution to Scotland’s rural enterprise and economy. We’re delighted to be able to support this innovative venture.”

The Ideas Festival will bring together rural youth from Scotland, the UK and across the world for a series of talks and workshops to share knowledge and promote leadership. With glamping, live music, local food and outdoor activities, the festival will be held on Hilton of Aldie Farm, and over 100 participants have been invited based on their potential to lead and make change in their rural communities.

The aim of the Rural Youth Ideas Festival is to give young people the confidence, skills and a network of contacts to support them with their endeavours. The Festival features a line-up of thought-provoking speakers, leadership and skills workshops as well as live music and outdoor fun to encourage conversation and team spirit. 
 
The majority of the festival delegates will be from Scotland, with representatives from across the world to share their international perspective and learnings. In addition to a programme of workshops focusing on social media, communications, business planning and policy, speakers include Matt Naylor of the successful Lincolnshire enterprise Naylor Flowers and Heather Wildman of consultancy Saviour Associates talking about their businesses and overcoming challenges. American Paralympian and farmer’s daughter, Kendra Lancaster will be sharing her story and Ellie Strohm will talk about  her experience with disadvantaged young people and how youths themselves might be able to bridge the divide between rural and urban communities.

 If you are interested in attending the Rural Youth Ideas festival (for free!), you can find out more and register here.