Purpose:

• To empower and provide opportunity for young people aged 13–19 from diverse ethnic backgrounds, especially BPOC youth, to actively shape the direction, governance, and impact of Intercultural Youth Scotland. Ambassadors will serve as a voice for youth, ensuring that programs, policies, and decisions reflect lived experiences and community needs.

• To empower and provide opportunity for young people aged 13–19 from diverse ethnic backgrounds, especially BPOC youth, to become advocates for diversity, inclusion, and social justice within their communities. The ambassadors will influence policy, design and feedback.

• Through leadership development, cultural exchange, and collaborative action, Youth Ambassadors amplify youth voices, foster intercultural understanding, and drive positive change for a more equitable society.

• Enable young people to advocate with national and local government and influence policy and have their voices heard. This will be both proactive and in response to policy.  

 

Roles of Youth Ambassadors Members

• Advisors: Provide insights and feedback on IYS programs, campaigns, and services.

• Advocates: Represent youth perspectives in Ambassador meetings.

• Collaborators: Work with others to co-design initiatives and influence strategy.

• Innovators: Work in consultation to address social justice, anti-racism, and community empowerment.

 

Responsibilities

• Representation: Act as a voice representing lived experience in decision-making spaces

• Engagement: Participate in IYS arranged sessions throughout the year

• Accountability: Uphold IYS values, respect confidentiality, and follow safeguarding guidelines

• Development: Commit to personal growth through training and reflection

 

Eligibility

• Age: 13–19 years old

• Background: Open to all ethnicities, with a strong emphasis on representation from Black and People of Colour (BPoC) communities and people with lived experience of racialisation

• Location: Must be based in Scotland

• Availability: Able to commit to regular meetings in Edinburgh (usually every 3 months) and occasional events or workshops.

 

Desirable Qualities

• Passion for social justice, anti-racism, and youth empowerment

• Interest in shaping the future of Scotland

• Willingness to collaborate, learn, and share lived experiences

• Ability to listen, respect others, and contribute constructively

• No prior experience required: enthusiasm and commitment matter most!

 

What We Offer

• A platform to influence decisions

• Opportunities for training, skill-building, and networking

• Recognition through certificates, events, and youth-led projects

• A supportive, inclusive environment with safeguarding in place