Highland Youth Parliament Launches at Carbisdale Castle

The inaugural session of the **Highland Youth Parliament** took place at **Carbisdale Castle** in November 2000, marking a significant milestone as the first directly elected body of its kind in Scotland. Chaired by **Belle Jones** from **Dornoch Academy**, the assembly gathered young representatives from various schools across Sutherland to discuss issues relevant to their communities.

During this historic session, Jones, along with **Richard Belbin** from **Kinlochbervie High School**, was later elected to the executive committee, further solidifying the foundation of this youth-led initiative. Their leadership roles signify an active engagement of young people in the political landscape, empowering them to voice their concerns and ideas.

The parliament included representatives from several educational institutions in the region, highlighting the diverse perspectives of the youth. Participants included **David Ridgeway** from Dornoch Academy, **Samantha Stuart**, **Carrie Gordon**, and **Donna Mackay** from **Farr High School** in Bettyhill, as well as **Morven Sutherland** and **Sine Ross** from **Golspie High School**. Additionally, **Catherine Harris** and **Amanda Burt** represented Kinlochbervie High School, emphasizing the collaborative spirit of the event.

The establishment of the Highland Youth Parliament stands as a testament to the commitment of local educators and community leaders in fostering democratic engagement among young people. The parliament aims to provide a platform for youth to express their views and influence decisions that affect their lives and communities.

As the session unfolded, participants engaged in discussions that covered a range of topics, from education policies to community development initiatives. This proactive approach not only encourages youth participation but also cultivates future leaders who are invested in shaping their society.

The significance of this gathering at Carbisdale Castle cannot be overstated. It represents a commitment to inclusivity and the recognition of young people’s voices in Scotland. The Highland Youth Parliament is expected to play a crucial role in advocating for issues that matter to the younger generation, thereby fostering a sense of responsibility and civic duty among its members.

With the successful launch of the Highland Youth Parliament, the future looks promising for youth engagement in Scotland. This initiative may inspire similar movements in other regions, showcasing the power of young voices in the democratic process.