Youth Impact Fund Celebration

Young people leading change in their local communities were celebrated at a special event in Stirling on Wednesday 5 March, as Forth Valley & Lomond Youth Local Action Group (YLAG) showcased the success of its Youth Impact Fund 2024.

Held at Made in Stirling, the event highlighted a series of inspiring projects tackling issues from mental health to environmental sustainability.

The event also marked a milestone for the local YLAG, which was established just over two years ago. Held in the same venue where their very first meeting took place, the evening brought together young leaders, project participants and community supporters to reflect on the successes of nine inspiring youth projects.

YLAG member Jennie Gardner said:

"This was a significant event for our YLAG, as we celebrated the first set of projects we funded."

"The areas these projects were supporting felt like a true representation of the kinds of issues our members are passionate about."

As part of the celebration, several local groups of young people presented their projects, highlighting their efforts in environmental sustainability, mental health awareness, skills development, inclusivity and healthy living – with a shared goal to improve the lives of their peers.

Among the projects featured on the night were:

Sprout for Change, Stirling & Dunblane – A collaboration between Wallace and Dunblane High School students and Bridge of Allan allotment group, focusing on tree planting, cultural heritage and community connection.

Canmore Trust Film Project, Callander – A film by McLaren High School students promoting awareness and support for youth mental health in association with suicide prevention charity The Canmore Trust.

Dress to Waste Less, Stirlingshire – A campaign led by Stirling Climate Ambassadors to promote sustainable fashion habits and reduce environmental impact.

Peer Supporters Training Programme, Balfron – An initiative delivered by SAMH (Scottish Action for Mental Health) to train young people at Balfron High School to become peer supporters, fostering better mental health awareness.

Roll Outdoors, Callander – A project aiming to improve accessibility in outdoor activities by providing an accessible toilet and changing area for young people with additional support needs.

Braehead Scout Group, Stirling – A training initiative to equip young leaders and adult volunteers with the knowledge to better support neurodiverse young people.

Global Justice Stirling, University of Stirling – A student-led initiative providing free breakfasts to students, fostering community and well-being.

LANTRA Training, Brig O’ Turk – Supporting young entrepreneur Amos Higgins in obtaining tree safety accreditation to enhance his forest school training and business opportunities.

Scottish Wild Food Festival Internship, Balfron Station – A marketing internship offering valuable skills development while promoting foraging and wild food heritage to young audiences.

Michaela Scott, a fellow YLAG member said:

"The Youth Impact Fund has truly highlighted the creativity, dedication, and passion of young people in our communities. Each of these projects showcases the impact of youth-driven transformation, tackling vital social and environmental issues with innovation and resolve."

“Witnessing the concrete results of their work is incredibly motivating and a clear indication of the value of nurturing local leaders and entrepreneurs. We are very proud of their accomplishments and look forward to the ongoing development and success of their projects."

YLAG is currently seeking new members aged 16-30 from Clackmannanshire, Stirling and the National Park to join their Local Action Group and help improve the lives of their peers in rural areas through community-led development initiatives. Visit  www.fvl.org.uk/youth-lag/ to find out how to get involved.

Foollow the link to find out more about Forth Valley & Lomond Youth Local Action Group