Arven Offshore Wind Farm is proud to mark its ongoing partnership with The Wood Foundation’s Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI), which continues to support all seven secondary and junior high schools across Shetland in empowering young people to make a difference in their communities.

Since the partnership began, more than 500 pupils have taken part in the YPI programme in Shetland, securing a total of £36,000 in funding for local charities through research-driven presentations and thought-provoking advocacy. Each year, Arven has committed £10,000 to support the delivery of YPI in Shetland, further enhanced by active engagement in school showcase finals as part of the judging panel.

Reflecting on the initiative’s impact, Aaron Priest, Stakeholder Manager at Arven Offshore Wind Farm, said:

“We are incredibly proud of the young people in Shetland who continue to embrace the opportunity to speak up so passionately and articulately for the issues that matter to them. Our continued support for YPI reflects our long-term commitment to the wider Shetland community and our belief in the power of young voices to drive positive change.”

Through YPI, students explore pressing social issues and connect with local charities, building teamwork, storytelling and advocacy skills as they compete for a £3,000 grant to support their chosen cause.

This year marks a special milestone for Baltasound Junior High School, the most northerly school in Scotland, as it celebrates ten years of participation in the initiative. All seven participating schools have now taken part in the programme for more than five years, highlighting the growing legacy of YPI in Shetland.

For Niall Healy, Headteacher at Whalsay School, YPI’s value lies in its ability to inspire reflection and action:

“Being involved in YPI is a powerful experience which encourages us all to consider what truly matters in life and what type of society we want to create for our young people moving forward.

“Empowering our young people to develop their knowledge and understanding of key societal issues and challenges can inspire meaningful action.”

Students echo that sentiment. Finlay Stuart, a pupil at Brae High School, said the programme revealed just how vital charities are in Shetland:

“I learnt about the huge impact charities have in providing support and about how much our community needs the support.

“After attending the YPI National Event, I felt inspired by the passion of everyone on stage and how it was clear they enjoyed sharing their desire to bring about change for their social issues.”

Gayle Duffus, Education Director at The Wood Foundation credited Arven’s consistent involvement with embedding YPI deeply in Shetland’s schools:

“Arven’s sustained partnership has been instrumental in embedding YPI in Shetland. Their support ensures young people not only secure valuable funding for vital local charities, but also build confidence, empathy and advocacy skills that will benefit them far beyond the classroom.”

The Arven Offshore Wind Farm, a 2.3GW floating offshore wind project located off the coast of Shetland, is currently in the early stages of development. Alongside initiatives like YPI and Sail Training Shetland, Arven’s work reflects a broader ambition to ensure sustainable development and community are at the heart of its operations.