On 6th of September, we were honoured to welcome Aberdeen City Councillors, Simon Watson (Torry/Ferryhill Ward) and Nurul Hoque Ali (Bridge of Don Ward), to our Young Achievers Club. It was an exciting day as they witnessed first-hand the vibrant activities we organize for young people across various age groups, ranging from ages 5-7, 8-10, 11-15, and 16-20.
One of the highlights of the visit was taking the councillors to the football pitch, where they watched our young athletes showcase their skills, teamwork, and passion for the game. Seeing our youth in action helped solidify the importance of providing structured activities that encourage both physical and social development.
We would like to express our gratitude to Councillor Nurul Hoque Ali for initiating this visit and to both councillors for recognizing the work we do. Their presence highlighted the importance of collaboration among community organizations to support the growth and development of our young people.
Youth work plays a critical role in shaping the future of our communities. It provides young people with a safe space where they can build vital skills such as teamwork, resilience, and leadership. Programs like the ones we offer at the Young Achievers Club also foster well-being and positive social interactions, which are crucial for mental and emotional health.
Moreover, youth programs help prevent negative social behaviours by providing a structured environment where young people can develop strong peer relationships and positive habits. At a time when mental health challenges are increasingly prevalent among youth, these programs offer a safe, supportive environment that encourages personal growth.
We believe it is essential that the government continues to recognize the value of youth work and invests in initiatives that uplift and support our young people. Adequate funding for youth programs ensures that we can continue to provide enriching experiences that foster well-being, prevent negative social behaviours, and promote mental health.
As a community, it is our responsibility to ensure that our youth are well-equipped for the future, both socially and emotionally. Youth work not only creates stronger individuals but also contributes to the overall health of our communities.
We thank Councillors Simon Watson and Nurul Hoque Ali for joining us and for their ongoing support of positive change in the lives of our young people.
Together, we can make a difference.