Kaitlin is a founding member of Northern Gas Networks’ Young Innovators Council, and is about to start her 3rd year of working with us! Hear from her directly about what inspired her to get involved with the council, what she hoped to learn and achieve, and why it’s more important than ever for organisations to engage with and listen to young people…
I have really enjoyed my time so far on the Young Innovators Council. Everyone has been so kind and welcoming, I am delighted to be able to take part in this fantastic opportunity! I am super happy that I was accepted onto the team.
This experience was initially recommended to me by a teacher at my school. It certainly has been worthwhile! At first, I did not think I would make it into the council however, to my surprise I am now part of it!
So – what do we actually do during the sessions? We are currently discussing how Northern Gas Networks can educate the young people on what the business does, and how they are able to share this information. We have come across ideas like setting up practical activities for people to take part in, and creating fun and engaging quizzes. During these discussions I believe that we have all had a chance to say our ideas and be listened to, we have also discussed the ideas that each of us have come up with. This led us on to further develop our ideas together. Everything is working well, all members of the team get along, the staff are amazingly kind.
There are a few things I would like to gain from this experience. First of all, I would like to improve my understanding of how Northern Gas Networks provides us with gas and overcomes the obstacles in their way. I would also like to build upon my social skills. I am not usually someone who speaks out about my opinion. I had noticed that in lessons I would very rarely put my hand up and suggest an answer, even if I knew I was correct. By using the knowledge and social skills I am gaining whilst being part of this council, I can see that my confidence is growing and I am beginning to understand how Northern Gas Networks works.
I am glad that Northern Gas Networks are reaching out to the younger generation, we are now able to have a say in what our future will look like. We may be young but our opinions are still valid, and we have some amazing ideas! I believe that it is important that we hear everyone’s opinion, especially if we are all aiming for the same solution. Northern Gas Networks are constantly looking into ways where they can be more environmentally friendly, I am delighted to be able to support a company who is wanting to improve our planet for the better!
Kaitlin, YIC member
To find out more check out S4TP Youth Insights or email our Youth Insights Manager claire@solutionsfortheplanet.co.uk for an informal chat about how we could support your business to engage with young stakeholders.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Solutions for the Planet Ltd