At this year’s Saltire Awards, Shetland’s young people once again demonstrated the power of passion, purpose, and community spirit.
More than 185 youth volunteers, aged 12 to 25, were honoured for their incredible contributions, dedicating a record-breaking 22,500+ hours of their time to support causes, organisations, and people across the isles.
Held at Mareel on Tuesday 3rd June, aligning with the national Power of Youth Day and Volunteers Week, the celebration was a moment to reflect on the positive change being driven by young people in every corner of Shetland. From helping at community events and youth groups to mentoring peers and leading national campaigns, these volunteers are not only gaining valuable experience, they are shaping their communities.
The Saltire Awards, coordinated locally by Voluntary Action Shetland, recognise key volunteering milestones. But behind each certificate is a story of commitment and growth. Whether reaching 10 hours or 1,000, every young person celebrated this year brought their own energy and ideas to the places and people they care about.
The evening was opened by Shetland Youth Voice Chair Beenie-Ann Wood and Secretary Kali Mackenzie-Thomson, whose words captured the spirit of the event:
“Volunteering can have a life-changing effect on our growth as young people... You are more than capable of positive change, and your ideas and views are valued.”
The Shetland Youth Voice members helped to present the awards, culminating with the prestigious Summit Awards – the highest Saltire honour, awarded to those who have gone above and beyond in their volunteering journeys. This year’s Summit recipients included the Youth Voice Committee themselves, Sophie Johnson (Open Door Drama), Bertie Summers (MSYP), Becca McArthur (COPE Ltd.), and Vaila Thompson (Shetland Army Cadets).
For these young leaders, volunteering has become a pathway to confidence, connection, and personal growth. As Bertie Summers reflected:
“I’ve seen first-hand how volunteering helps develop confidence, public speaking, and communication. These are things I’ve learned myself as an MSYP and they’ve helped shape my future.”
And for Vaila Thompson, who has dedicated over 1,000 hours to helping others, the journey has come full circle:
“My experiences in Shetland Cadets have truly shaped me. I find being a role model to the younger cadets incredibly rewarding.”
Behind these stories stands the vital support of Shetland Youth & Employability Services plays in making sure young people in Shetland have access to meaningful, youth-led opportunities - and the support to take part. The service coordinates and champions a range of initiatives, including Shetland Youth Voice and the Scottish Youth Parliament, which empower young people to represent their peers and influence local and national decisions, Maddrim Media, a creative youth film project offering hands-on experience in storytelling and production, and the Young Islanders Network — a national initiative led by the Scottish Government that gives island youth a voice in shaping the National Islands Plan.
These projects don’t just build skills and confidence, they ensure young people in Shetland are heard, included, and empowered to lead.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to every young volunteer, and to the local groups, charities and schools that make their contributions possible. Together, we’re building a culture where young people are not only seen and heard, but empowered to lead.
Volunteering is open to all young people in Shetland, and now is the perfect time to get involved. Whether it’s helping out at local events, joining a youth committee, mentoring younger peers, or contributing your voice to national projects, every opportunity is a chance to grow, connect, and make a real impact. You don’t need experience, just enthusiasm, a bit of time, and a willingness to try something new.
Ready to start your journey?
- Explore current roles at Voluntary Action Shetland Youth Volunteering Opportunities
- Discover projects and support at www.shetland.gov.uk/youth_services
- Follow @ShetlandYouth on Instagram for updates, inspiration and opportunities
If you’re not sure where to begin, get in touch, we’re here to help you take the first step. There’s a place for everyone, and the difference you can make, for yourself and your community, starts with getting involved.
To take the next step, contact Youth Services at youthservices@shetland.gov.uk or call 01595 744490