Applications open for new youth forum to help shape the South of Scotland economy
Run by South of Scotland Enterprise, the new project looks to give youngsters a voice
Last updated 20th Jul 2023
A new Youth Advisory Forum is set to be launched by South of Scotland Enterprise (SOSE), which will give young people the chance to help influence the economy in the South of Scotland.
The hunt for members has begun, with a call going out to encourage young people aged 16 to 25 living in either Dumfries & Galloway or the Borders to apply to be a part of the forum for an initial two-year period.
Those choosing to get involved will work closely as a team alongside Melissa Gunn, South of Scotland Enterprise’s Youth Programmes Lead.
The forum will be consulted on a range of areas which are of interest across the region’s economic and community development agency.
Subjects including what things people would like to see happen in their area, and what young people think the future of the South of Scotland should look like will all be discussed.
Opportunity for personal development
Members of the forum will also have the chance to expand their own network of personal contacts, with training and coaching opportunities along the way.
It’s hoped various opportunities will help young people grow their confidence and develop their skillsets.
Additionally, there will also be a qualification available from time spent on the forum.
Speaking on the upcoming forum, Melissa Gunn said:
“We are very excited to be recruiting for our first group of young people to join our new Youth Advisory Forum here at SOSE.
”We are keen to work with young people from all different kinds of backgrounds from across the South, and we would particularly like to hear from those who have never been involved in anything like this before.
“This Forum will give SOSE the chance to better understand the economic issues that are impacting the young people of our region and gives young people the opportunity to have their voices heard."
Putting young people first
Also excited to be launching the new project, Jane Morrison-Ross, Chief Executive of SOSE said:
“When we toured the South of Scotland as part of our first engagement roadshow in 2021/2022, we listened when people told us that giving young people in our region a voice was important.
“We made the creation of the SOSE Youth Advisory Forum a priority in our Five Year Plan - published earlier this year.
“I am delighted that we are kickstarting the recruitment process for our Forum and would ask any interested young people to get in touch to find out more about applying.”
For those thinking about applying, there are two upcoming online drop-in sessions where more information will be made available.
Anyone interested can submit an application in either a written, video, or audio format, which must be in by Monday the 21st of August this year.
Sign ups for the drop in sessions, as well as further information and submission instructions can be found online.