Youth and Leadership
Building confident young leaders and stronger communities.
Inspiring responsibility.
Strengthening voices.
Shaping the next generation.
We work with young people across Aberdeen and the North-East to build confidence, leadership, and a strong sense of community responsibility.
Through structured programmes, responsive school partnerships, and youth-led initiatives, we support young people to develop the skills, resilience, and awareness they need to thrive, both now and in the future.
Our approach is practical, engaging, and rooted in real-life challenges facing young people today.
Aberdeen Youth Empowerment & Leadership Programme (AYELP)
AYELP is our structured leadership journey for young people aged 12–18, delivered in priority neighbourhoods across Aberdeen.
Over a 12-week programme, participants explore:
• Emotional intelligence and resilience
• Communication and conflict resolution
• Civic awareness and community responsibility
• Decision-making and accountability
• Leadership, teamwork, and public speaking
Young people take part in interactive workshops, simulations, and youth-led project development, culminating in presentations to community stakeholders.
AYELP builds confidence, reduces anti-social behaviour, and empowers young people to see themselves as active citizens and future leaders.
Responsive School Partnerships
Alongside structured programmes like AYELP, we work directly with schools and youth settings to respond to emerging behavioural and community safety concerns.
Our delivery is shaped by need and can include:
Targeted Group Work
Small-group interventions supporting young people involved in or at risk of specific behaviours. Sessions focus on accountability, peer influence, and positive decision-making.
Year-Group or Cohort Workshops
Interactive sessions addressing wider cultural concerns such as vaping, digital harm, anti-social behaviour, or community safety.
Whole-School Input
Assemblies or awareness sessions where appropriate, reinforcing key messages and supporting positive school culture.
We prioritise interactive and discussion-led formats that encourage reflection, responsibility, and leadership.
Where appropriate, young people can progress from early intervention sessions into longer-term programmes such as AYELP, volunteering opportunities, or employability support.
Leadership & Progression
Our youth work is not one-off.
Many young people move from participation into peer-support roles, volunteering, or further development opportunities.
We focus on steady progression, supporting young people to:
• Develop confidence
• Strengthen decision-making skills
• Build resilience
• Take on responsibility
• Contribute positively to their communities
By creating clear pathways, we help young people move from challenge to contribution.