Young Voices, Big Ideas: Rekindle’s Dundee Pioneers Lead the Way
Since their appointment earlier this autumn, our Dundee Youth Pioneers have been meeting regularly to explore what Rekindle could become in Scotland. This inspiring group of eight young people, aged 16–25, are helping us understand what kind of space, approach and presence would most benefit Dundee’s young community.
Their first sessions focused on getting to know one another and exploring the realities of local life – what it’s like growing up in Dundee, how the education system feels from their perspective, and what a genuinely youth-led space might look like. These early conversations laid the foundations for deeper discussions about curiosity, belonging and community voice.
The group later turned their focus to Scotland’s education system, drawing on personal school experiences to discuss what worked, what didn’t, and how it could change. They spoke about the need for more inclusive and adaptable learning, better mental health support, and opportunities to learn practical life skills alongside academic subjects. The conversation highlighted a shared desire for schools that recognise individuality, promote equality and encourage young people to define their own routes to success.
I’d like for the system to not provide support for children with different needs, but their needs to be recognised and catered to. Their needs aren’t additional – they’re different. – Beth, Dundee Youth Pioneer
I would like to see a change in how we treat students who may be struggling mentally,specifically those who are neurodiverse as I feel that teachers I have had experience with don’t know how to handle or are not educated enough on mental health issues. – Reive, Dundee Youth Pioneer
More recently, the group has been turning those reflections into creative thinking. In their latest in-person session at Lochee Community Hub, the Pioneers explored creative ways to express their experiences and perspectives, using visual storytelling, digital media and other imaginative formats. They also unpacked what it means to think critically in a world of information overload, describing curiosity, open mindedness and self-awareness as essential qualities. Finally, they imagined what a welcoming Dundee home for Rekindle might look and feel like, envisioning a space that encourages freedom of expression, mutual respect and possibility, shaped by the young voices from the community itself.
Charli and I have been blown away by the level of compassionate critical thinking demonstrated by these incredible young people. Using their empathy and creativity to mould and shape a joyful, safe space for youngsters in Dundee. Their positive energy is utterly infectious!” – Nika Muthra-Shah, Programme Director
These ideas are powerful starting points – moments of insight that will continue to shape how Rekindle grows in Scotland as we approach the opening of the new school in Lochee early next year.
