Ainya is an intersectional feminist, activist, and advocate for improving the lives of young women and girls.  

She has been part of the Young Women’s Movement Advisory Collective since 2022, contributing to strategy, programme design, and campaigns that amplify young women’s voices across Scotland. She has represented the organisation at national and European events, including as part of a small international team that organised a study session for 35 young women from across Europe.  

The study session was hosted at the Council of Europe Youth Centre in Budapest this year, with a focus on advancing gender equality and peacebuilding in Europe. There, she led work on activism and mental wellbeing, exploring how changemakers can care for themselves in an increasingly challenging world. 

Ainya works in community justice policy and strategic planning, with a particular interest in the disproportionate impact of the justice system on women and care-experienced young people. Her work explores ways to support people from outside the justice system, using evidence-based approaches. She also has an interest in initiatives that work with men who commit gender-based violence, encouraging accountability and transformation. Alongside her work, she is training as a counsellor, reflecting her belief in the role of empathy and connection in nurturing both individual and collective wellbeing.  

Ainya is also deeply involved in community volunteering. She is a listening volunteer with the Samaritans, where she feels privileged to listen and support people. She also volunteers with the 2050 Climate Group’s Policy Subgroup, which aims to equip young people with the tools and confidence to be climate activists and influence policy and action, including helping to deliver a recent fuel poverty roundtable in the Highlands. 

Living with endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, and other hormone-related conditions has given Ainya a deep understanding of resilience and empathy – experiences that continue to shape her outlook and values.  

She remains dedicated to building compassionate, inclusive communities rooted in justice, empathy and meaningful connection.