Young people sought to shape Scotland’s culture

Scotland’s National Youth Arts Advisory Group is looking for volunteers to help take the next steps in working with Scotland’s youth arts sector and public organisations to tackle the barriers that children and young people face when engaging with the arts.

Young Scot is working with the group to recruit up to 20 new members and are seeking young people who are keen to bring forward their ideas and vision for youth arts in Scotland. 

Earlier in the year the National Youth Arts Advisory Group launched its report “Culture & Connection”, in partnership with the Cabinet Secretary for Culture, Tourism and External Affairs, Fiona Hyslop, which set out recommendations across three main themes: community participation, recognition and pathways for growth.

Ellen Wilson of NYAAG commented: “Being a part of NYAAG is an invaluable experience because it allows young people to have a voice amongst decision makers to help create real change in the youth arts and culture scene in Scotland.

“We are looking for new, enthusiastic members to help take forward our vision and recommendations, ensuring that children and young people have the best opportunities that can be provided for them within the youth arts sector whilst forming a creative future shaped by Scotland’s children and young people.”

The National Youth Arts Advisory Group is a group of 14 to 24 years olds from across Scotland who help determine the priorities of youth arts at a regional and national level. Originally founded in 2014, the group work with Creative Scotland and the Scottish Government to help ensure there is a youth voice and perspective within the youth arts decision-making process in Scotland. The group also advocate the power of youth voice and empowerment across the whole youth arts sector. Funded by Creative Scotland the group is currently facilitated by Young Scot, the national youth information and citizenship charity.

Louise Macdonald, Chief Executive of Young Scot, said: “The National Youth Arts Advisory Group plays a vital role in shaping the arts and creativity in Scotland. The group has done an amazing job, administering the Nurturing Talent Fund, working with European partners in Denmark and delivering Uncon 2.0, and we’re excited to see what the next group of young people can do to develop the work of the NYAAG and continue to shape Scotland’s culture.”

Colin Bradie, Interim Head of Creative Learning, Creative Scotland said: “Established in 2014, the National Youth Arts Advisory Group has done a fantastic job of advocating for young people in the arts at all levels, from early years through to early careers artists.  This is a terrific opportunity for young people across the country with an enthusiasm for the arts to get involved and help shape Scotland’s arts and culture offer to the needs and aspirations of its young people.”

For more information or to apply for a place on the National Youth Arts Advisory Group, visit http://young.scot/get-involved.  Application deadline is 15th July 2019