Meet the IYS team
Get to know the people behind the work
Meet the team who make it all happen! Our staff are passionate about supporting young people, tackling inequality, and creating real change. Each brings their own skills and experience, but together they’re here to listen, guide, and empower you.
We were once young people too!

Deputy Director
Sadia
My background is in Education, with a strong focus on anti-racist work. Much of what I do is shaped by my own experiences as a South Asian, Muslim woman born and raised in Scotland. I’m passionate about challenging inequality and uplifting young people’s voices. When I’m not working, you’ll usually find me camping in the west of Scotland, getting lost in a good book, or spending time with family and friends.

Finance Manager
Sarah
I enjoy walking my dog, spending time with loved ones, and indulging in coffee and cake. I have a deep love for classical music - Ludovico Einaudi is my favourite, and Experience is my favourite piece. If I could give my younger self one piece of advice, it would be - only worry about things when they happen!

Education Manager
Grace
I call myself mixed race, I am half Jamaican, quarter English and quarter Irish. I am British and have lived in Scotland since I was 14. I have worked as an outdoor activity instructor in climbing and abseiling, bush craft, survival and hillwalking. I love singing and I’m in a band!

Education Officer
Hannah
I have a background in Education, Psychology and Youth Work, and have particularly enjoyed working with young people with ASN. I come from Sheffield, in England, but have lived in Edinburgh for five years. When I am not working, I enjoy cooking, playing music and running, and I have recently started sea swimming!

Mental Health Manager
Felicity
I feel passionate about equality and mental health. We all deserve appropriate and responsive mental health care. My background is working with refugees and people seeking asylum. This really inspired me in creating a bilingual and culturally responsive mental health intervention for Intercultural Youth Scotland. I'm really excited about this new opportunity I have. I also like dogs and synthesizers. And I visit my mum once a week! Mum's are important!

Youth Work Manager
Laura
Throughout my career, I've worked with young people across the creative arts, heritage and youth employment sectors. I believe in the power of creativity to help young people share their lived experience, build community and navigate the world. I'm Malagasy-British originally hailing from Birmingham but am excited to call Scotland my new home. I love gardening, making and listening to music and doing crafts like lino-printing.

Youth Worker
Nikhita
I’m South Asian, born in Scotland, and I feel lucky to have two cultures that influence and inspire me - my culture has shaped who I am today. I studied music, and especially love singing and writing songs. A couple of my favourite artists are Erykah Badu and Raveena. Outside of work, I love to relax by doing yoga, spending time in nature, cooking, or reading. Before joining the team at IYS, I actually volunteered here as a Young Person!
ogo%20hi-res%20png_edited.png)