Across Aberdeen, young people are not just being consulted — they are leading change.
Aberdeen Youth Movement (AYM) has created new platforms for youth participation, from school consultations to global advocacy. In 2025 alone, the group engaged 849 pupils through school “Lunchtime Takeovers”, gathering views on local priorities and youth issues.
AYM also distributed £49,809 in Youth Action Grants, supporting projects that benefited 862 young people across the city.
Members have represented Aberdeen nationally and internationally, including attending the UN Youth Forum in New York and contributing to major policy discussions. As one member put it: “AYM gave us the power to make our voices count.”
The National Leadership Network (NLN) is redefining what youth leadership looks like for care-experienced people in Scotland.
Led by people with lived experience of care, the network funds and supports leadership opportunities for young people aged 14+. To date, NLN has distributed over £200,000 in grants supporting leadership projects and advocacy across Scotland.
Young people help shape funding decisions, deliver national presentations and influence policy discussions in spaces including the Scottish Parliament and national conferences.
Members say the experience has transformed their confidence and aspirations. As one participant reflected: “This opportunity has changed my life.”
Young Sea Changers Scotland is helping a new generation influence how Scotland protects its seas.
Through training programmes, advocacy support and a national youth manifesto, the organisation equips young people aged 16-to–25 to take part in marine policy and environmental decision-making.
Young people have contributed to consultation responses, met with MSPs and MPs, and engaged with organisations including NatureScot and the Marine Directorate.
The Youth Ocean Action Fund has already supported seven young people and three youth-led projects, removing financial barriers to environmental advocacy.
For many participants, the programme opens doors to careers in marine policy and conservation.
