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Highland councillors have formally welcomed recently appointed Youth Convener, Leah McBain, placing a spotlight on her role in ensuring young people feel confident and supported in pursuing opportunities in communities such as her home village of Lochinver.
Leah attended the latest meeting of the education committee, where members praised the work she has taken forward since starting her term in August.
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Newly appointed Highland Youth Convener is from Lochinver
The 23-year-old former Ullapool High School pupil is the 17th young person to hold the post, which gives young people a direct link to elected members and senior officials.
Education committee chair, Cllr John Finlayson, said: “It was great to have Leah along to present on the fantastic work she’s involved in across Highland, ensuring that young people have a voice.
“The Youth Convener plays a key role in connecting local youth voices on the issues that matter most with decision-makers at a regional level and plans to engage with young people around looking at online safety, was certainly well received by members of the education committee.
“We also look forward to Leah’s attendance at future education committee meetings.”
Leah holds a degree in History and Criminology from the University of the Highlands and Islands and values the opportunity to remain in the Highlands while developing her career.
At the meeting, she thanked councillors for their welcome, saying: “Thank you for welcoming me to the Education Committee today. It’s been a pleasure to meet elected Members and Council staff and to build these important connections.
“I’ve been in post for a few months now and I’m really enjoying the opportunity to engage with young people. I hope that through the topic I’ve chosen, Online Safety and Technology that young people can share their voice in a way they find meaningful.
“I’m encouraged by the level of engagement so far and would urge everyone to keep reaching out and speaking up about what matters to you, whether that’s online safety and technology, education, employment opportunities, housing, mental health and wellbeing, or any other concern.
“Young people are the future, and we all share a responsibility to do more to support and empower them.”
People can contact her by email on leah.mcbain3@highland.gov.uk.

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