Touch of Love Outreach's Young Achievers proudly represented Aberdeen at the Edinburgh Festival Carnival, following eight weeks of preparation that culminated in performances by two groups of young people aged 12 to 22.
For many of them, it was a chance to step outside their home city, explore a new place, meet new people and take part in one of Scotland’s vibrant cultural gatherings.
Week by week, they learned their dance steps, rehearsed together, encouraged one another and built the confidence to perform in front of a wider audience.
On the day, two groups proudly represented Touch of Love. The 12-15 years group performed first, followed by the 16-22 years group. They arrived with energy, confidence and enthusiasm, ready to share what they had worked hard to prepare.
Both groups delivered their performances to festival audiences, representing Touch of Love Outreach and the city of Aberdeen with pride.
What made the day special was not only the performance itself, but everything around it. The young people joined a parade filled with colour, music, movement and people from different communities. They saw different traditions being celebrated openly and safely. They experienced the joy of being in a space where many cultures could stand side by side.
For many of the New Scot young people involved, it was an opportunity to see how their culture, talents and participation contributed to the wider celebration. These experiences help young people develop confidence, broaden their outlook and recognise the positive contribution they make to their communities.
Travelling outside Aberdeen also gave them a chance to grow in confidence and independence. They explored a different city, performed somewhere they would not normally perform, and created memories with their peers, volunteers and families. These are the kinds of experiences that stay with young people long after the music has ended.
The day gave them connection, courage, teamwork and a stronger sense of belonging.
Reflecting on the experience, Dr Jane Akadiri, CEO of Touch of Love Outreach, said: “At Touch of Love, we believe young people need opportunities that help them feel seen, heard and valued. This experience gave our Young Achievers the chance to share who they are, learn from other cultures and feel proud of what they bring. We are so proud of every young person who took part. We are also deeply grateful to our volunteers, families and supporters who travelled with us and helped make the Edinburgh experience possible for our young people.”
A heartfelt thank you to the Edinburgh Festival Carnival team and the Edinburgh Jazz & Blues Festival, alongside the artists, choreographers, musicians, volunteers, families, supporters and every participant who helped make this celebration possible.
The Edinburgh Festival Carnival provided an opportunity for the young people to showcase what they had learned, celebrate cultural diversity and create lasting memories through a shared experience beyond their local community.
The festival may have lasted only a day, but the confidence, friendships and memories created will stay with our Young Achievers for much longer.
For more information about Touch of Love Outreach, email support@touchoflove.org.uk or call +447715043399.