The Young Reporters, supported by Youth, Family & Community Learning at South Lanarkshire Council, is a dynamic youth-led project putting young people in control of the mic — and the message. Starting as a podcasting group, it quickly grew into a wider media and journalism initiative. Young people now create video interviews, record monthly radio shows, and produce media content that promotes their community and raises youth voice.
From interviewing local MSPs and hockey teams, to reporting from First Minister’s Questions, the group has seized every opportunity to build real-world media skills — and confidence. Their creativity has inspired younger groups and sparked similar projects across the service, making a real impact far beyond their own sessions.
The Young Reporters aren’t just developing digital and STEM skills — they’re also learning how to plan, present and create content for different audiences, while developing transferable life skills like teamwork, communication and organisation.
Participants say the project has helped them grow in confidence, feel more connected, and gain experiences they wouldn’t have had otherwise. They’ve spoken at community events, showcased the best of their local area, and even featured in a national awards body case study.
“I’ve made a lot of new friends. We’re from different schools, but now we’re all good friends. I’m proud of everything we’ve achieved so far — and I’m excited for what’s next.”
Whether it’s a podcast, a radio show or a video interview, The Young Reporters are proving that media can be a powerful tool for youth work — and for building a brighter future.
In a world full of pop-ups and password breaches, Data Knight turned cyber security into a creative adventure. Supported by Creative Stirling and Cyber Security Scotland, this youth-led digital animation project taught six young LGBTQ+ people about cyber resilience — and gave them the tools to pass that message on.
Instead of leaflets or lectures, the group created a short animated film using Procreate on iPads, guided by local artist David Galletly. For many, it was their first time using digital drawing software — but they jumped in with imagination and enthusiasm, designing original characters and visuals that reflected their personalities and creativity.
The storyline follows a young non-binary hero who must defeat three cyber villains, each representing a key component of staying safe online: strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and regular device updates. Throughout the project, the group paused to reflect on these themes, making sure the messages were not just embedded in the film — but understood by everyone involved.
The young people led the storytelling, design and production — collaborating through their own Discord server and supporting each other at every step. For many, this project marked the start of something bigger: some went on to volunteer with Creative Stirling, others joined LGBT Youth Scotland youth groups, and a few even applied to college to pursue creative arts.
They all earned Saltire Awards — and perhaps more importantly, built friendships, confidence and a passion for creating digital art.
“I absolutely loved this experience. I’ve even started volunteering at Creative Stirling. That really says everything.”
Data Knight is more than just an animation — it’s a bold, youth-led leap into digital creativity, collaboration and cyber safety. A great example of what happens when we hand young people the tools — and trust them to lead.
When Nick Venture brought his passion for Dungeons & Dragons to YOUth Space Fife in 2021, he didn’t just bring a game — he built a whole new world for young people to thrive in.
At first glance, D&D might just look like rolling dice and casting spells. But for young people across Fife, it’s become a transformational space for building confidence, learning teamwork, and exploring big issues like social justice — all through the power of storytelling.
Nick designed a simplified, custom version of the game to make it more accessible — both for young people and for youth workers new to the format. He ran online sessions during the pandemic, created a hybrid model post-lockdown, and even developed training resources to support other workers in using D&D as a youth work tool. His guide, Fractured Lands, has been piloted with young people and used at Waid Academy’s Wellbeing Day in 2024.
What started as Nick leading the campaign has now evolved. Thanks to his mentorship, young people have stepped up to become Dungeon Masters themselves, creating and leading their own stories. Some now run their own games at school, college and other youth groups — passing on the confidence they’ve gained.
Nick does a lot to ensure every young person feels welcome and supported — whether it’s helping them plan bus routes, giving them lifts, or simply offering a kind and encouraging word.
“I used to rarely leave my room. Now I come to in-person sessions every week.”
Through his D&D group, Nick has embedded key youth work outcomes — including teamwork, risk-taking, and broadening horizons — into an activity that feels like play but delivers real personal growth. His warmth, creativity, and care have made him a trusted adult, a brilliant mentor, and a Dungeon Master of change.
