MSYPs from Orkney embark on Edinburgh parliamentary experience

Orkney’s two MSYPs, Nymeria Drayak and Iain Pretswell, joined counterparts from Shetland and the Western Isles on a visit to Edinburgh recently, aimed at enhancing their understanding of parliamentary processes, fostering collaboration, and advocating for the unique needs of island communities. 

Organised by Orkney Islands Council’s Youth Services team in partnership with the Scottish Government Islands Team, Young Scot, and the Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP), the visit took place from 27-29 March 2024 and also included Iona Dundas, Vice Chair of The Orkney Youth Forum. 

While there, the Orkney delegation: 

• Took part in workshops with Young Scot on digital content and video creation and creative skills development. 

• Enjoyed a guided tour of the Scottish Parliament, providing insight into legislative processes and parliamentary procedures. 

• Met with Scottish Government officials at Victoria Quay in Leith to discuss challenges facing MSYPs from the islands and the broader issues affecting young people in island communities. 

• Networking opportunities and a training session Attended a networking and training event with the Scottish Youth Parliament to enhance advocacy skills and promote collaboration among youth leaders. 

As well as meals together and a visit to Camera Obscura in their down time. 

MSYP Iain Pretswell said: “The trip to Edinburgh was an excellent opportunity to meet other MSYPs and compare the issues and experiences which impact our respective island communities. 

“It also gave us a solid network of people with whom we can consult and exchange ideas. 

“One of the things I am excited to work on going forward is looking at how we can make the justice system fairer and more accessible in rural areas and am currently advocating that we expand the right to anonymity for victims of certain crimes."  

MSYP Nymeria Drayak said: “Going down to Edinburgh was an amazing experience and a brilliant opportunity that I am so thankful I got to take part in. It was wonderful to meet some other MSYPs and get the chance to learn about and share each other's experiences, issues and opinions.” 

Iona Dundas, Orkney Youth Forum Vice Chair, said: "The visit to Edinburgh was an incredible opportunity to engage directly with parliamentary processes and gain valuable insights into how policies are shaped. It has inspired me to become a more active advocate for our island community."  

Looking ahead, there is a commitment by all involved in the Edinburgh trip to continue collaboration among island MSYPs and youth voice groups and maintain networking efforts to support ongoing ‘youth voice’.  

Are you a young person in Orkney with an idea for improving the lives of young people? Iain and Nymeria are happy to hear from you about issues that concern you. They can be contacted by email on: 

• Iain Pretswell MSYP iain.pretswell.msyp@sypmail.org.uk; 

• Nymeria Drayak nymeria.drayak.msyp@sypmail.org.uk 

About Orkney Islands Council’s Youth Services: The Council’s Youth Services team is part of the wider Community Learning, Development and Employability service and is dedicated to empowering young people across Orkney, through educational and developmental programs. We collaborate with local partners to create opportunities for effective youth work and community engagement. 

About Scottish Youth Parliament (SYP): The Scottish Youth Parliament is the democratically elected voice of Scotland's young people. It provides a platform for young people to be involved in the democratic process and influence decisions that affect their lives. 

About Young Scot: Young Scot is the national youth information and citizenship charity for Scotland, providing young people aged 11-26 with a wealth of information, ideas, and opportunities.  

The MSYPs from other isles communities were: 

Shetland: Joe Smith, Bertie Summers  

Western Isles: Ellie Denehy , Alannah Logue