Community / Jess named in ’30 under 30′ list
A WOMAN with a passion for helping young people and creating positive change in the community has been named in a list recognising 30 women aged under 30 in Scotland.
Jess Carlyle, who works with local peer education organisation OPEN as well as sexual violence charity the Compass Centre, said she felt “honoured” to feature in the Young Women’s Movement list.
The ’30 Under 30’ campaign highlights 30 young women and non-binary people in Scotland who are making changes in their communities and the wider society.
Carlyle, who is 25, started volunteering with OPEN in 2016 as a peer educator before moving into peer mentoring and ultimately getting a part-time role in 2019.
In 2021 she took on the role of organisation development lead.
In this job she has worked alongside young people aged 16 to 29 to turn our organisation into an independent, youth-governed charity.
“I provide support and coordinate training for our young trustees to help them govern our charity effectively, develop their skills, and grow their confidence,” Carlyle said.
“I also started a new role alongside this one in April 2023 as the young survivors’ practitioner with the Compass Centre, where I am currently carrying out research to better understand the needs of young people in Shetland when it comes to receiving support from our services.
“After this has been completed, I will then go on to provide support for survivors.”
Carlyle said her dream is to become a qualified councillor and help young people with their mental health and wellbeing.
“I had a really hard time when I was younger and would not be where I am now if it weren’t for the supporters I have had in my life,” she said.
“Positive connections can be really powerful, and all young people deserve to have positive relationships, particularly when life feels really hard.”
Speaking about landing a spot on the list, Carlyle told Shetland News: “It feels really good to be recognised for the work I have done and continue to do.
“I knew my friend had nominated me when they were taking nominations but it was a lovely surprise to be chosen to be on the list.
“I feel honoured to see my story up there alongside so many inspiring young women across Scotland.”
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