David Roberts is an inspiring mentor whose extensive experience in business has allowed him to guide countless young people toward success. After a long career at TSB, David made the life-changing decision to volunteer with The King’s Trust in 2011, where he has since made a lasting impact on young people’s lives. Initially, David began as a progression mentor on the Get Into courses, providing employability support and helping young people secure jobs. As he worked with young people who had faced instability in their lives, David took it upon himself to step out of his comfort zone to learn how to motivate, structure, and make his mentees feel valued.
David’s passion for making a difference led him to transition into business mentoring in 2013. From mentoring young people who are starting businesses to supporting individuals with diverse needs, David has helped shape the careers of many. One of the most remarkable stories of his impact came when he mentored a young graphic designer in London. Although he had no background in design, David helped her build her online portfolio, find clients, and get her work featured in The New Yorker. This rewarding experience also allowed David to grow and learn alongside his mentee, showcasing his commitment to both his own development and that of those he mentors.
Currently, David is mentoring Shannen, who runs her K9 Services business. Together, they have worked on business strategies, defined long-term goals, and even worked on overcoming challenges such as time management, especially as Shannen has additional support needs. David’s patience and guidance have been invaluable to her success.
David’s contributions extend beyond one-on-one mentoring. He has played a pivotal role in supporting The King’s Trust’s wider programmes, including delivering employability workshops and assisting with the Enterprise Challenge and school transitions programmes. He has a particular passion for supporting young people in the beauty industry, having worked with them to build skills, reflect on their learning, and prepare for future career opportunities. His ability to connect with young people, from a variety of backgrounds, has earned him tremendous respect.
A young person mentored by David shared:
“David has helped me a lot since I’ve known him, guiding me on the right path and covering every aspect of my business. His support has been invaluable, and I’m confident he will continue to help me grow.”
Through his many years of selfless volunteering, David Roberts has demonstrated that a commitment to young people can change lives. He continues to inspire those around him and leaves a lasting impact on every young person he works with.
Susan Brown is a dedicated youth worker whose passion for helping young people shines through everything she does. As a volunteer with Girlguiding Scotland, Susan supports girls aged 4-to-14, providing them with opportunities to develop vital skills for life and become confident, capable young women. In addition to her role supporting young girls, Susan leads membership growth, working to recruit and support volunteers, expanding the organisation’s impact across Scotland.
Susan’s work goes beyond her role as a leader; she serves as a chair of the board for the Edinburgh Gang Show, where young people from Girlguiding Edinburgh and South East Scotland Scouts gain valuable performance experience, build skills and have fun. Susan’s enthusiasm and drive have made these partnerships possible, benefiting hundreds of young people in the process.
A colleague from the Edinburgh Gang Show highlights Susan’s contribution, noting how her passion for youth work and her ability to create opportunities for collaboration between Scouting and Girlguiding have allowed young people to shine on stage. Through these partnerships, young people have gained invaluable experiences and the chance to develop skills that will stay with them for life.
But it’s Susan’s personal touch that truly sets her apart. A parent of a young girl, who has struggled with invisible challenges such as learning disabilities, shared that Susan’s outward show of love and care has made all the difference in their daughter’s life. From the first day they met, Susan saw the potential in their daughter and has been her champion ever since, providing time, encouragement, and ongoing support.
“Susan nurtured our wild emotional child, providing her with time, kindness, and never faltering expectations. From additional messages of encouragement to us and Tia, her interest in her ongoing difficulties, Susan will forever be her champion.”
Her impact is also reflected in the stories of the many young people who have crossed her path. A former Brownie shares how Susan’s leadership had a positive impact on her life, providing her with a much-needed break from a difficult home life and offering experiences like residentials that shaped her future. A current volunteer in the same unit echoes this sentiment, noting how Susan has positively influenced around 150 girls in Edinburgh each week, creating unforgettable memories and providing vital support to the other volunteers.
A young person, Mae, highlights Susan’s enthusiasm, recalling how Susan’s presence at a Bronze Duke of Edinburgh expedition brought joy and support to her team. Meanwhile, Polly, a 15-year-old, shares how Susan’s infectious enthusiasm continues to inspire both current and past members, including her special memory of a trip to Disneyland Paris.
Through all of her work, Susan exemplifies what it means to be a compassionate, dedicated, and impactful youth worker. Her dedication to Girlguiding Scotland and the young people she supports is evident in everything she does.
Charlotte Bamford is a shining example of the impact a dedicated volunteer can have on the lives of young people. A volunteer with Versus Arthritis – Young People and Families Service, Charlotte supports young people aged 10-to-25 living with arthritis or related conditions. Having accessed the service herself as a young person, Charlotte brings her own lived experience to her work, which has become a cornerstone of her success in connecting with and inspiring others.
Charlotte’s work includes:
Charlotte’s community development degree with distinction and her Kathleen Mackie Award for volunteering showcase her dedication to youth work and her commitment to making a difference. Her infectious enthusiasm and ability to encourage young people to try new activities, such as caving, paddleboarding, archery, and kayaking, are key to her success. By showing what is possible for someone living with a long-term condition, Charlotte challenges young people to break through barriers and build confidence.
Her dedication to safeguarding, her thoughtful approach to group work, and her commitment to celebrating young people’s achievements have made her an integral part of the Versus Arthritis team. Charlotte is also a champion for inclusivity, making sure all young people, including neurodivergent and LGBTQ+ young people, feel valued, understood, and accepted.
“Charlotte has always been there for me and the other young people. She’s someone who makes us feel better, helps us see things in a different way, and shows us what’s possible.”
Charlotte’s impact extends beyond the activities she leads; it’s her deep care for the young people she works with and her ability to build trust and confidence that truly set her apart.