As Convener of the Transport, Environment and Rural Affairs Committee at the Scottish Youth Parliament, Islay is integral to the group’s ongoing work to cement the U22 Concessionary bus pass scheme in Scotland and subsequently to expand it out to young people up to 26 years old.  

Early family adventures inspired Islay to advocate for environmental protection, driven by a love for the natural world, and as time has passed she has advocated for the inclusion of young voices in decision-making spheres, particularly those where they are most absent.

Building on her transport work, Islay was recently invited to give evidence in front of the Net Zero, Energy and Transport Committee at Scottish Parliament, emphasizing the importance of keeping public transport accessible, affordable and reliable for all transport users – but with a particular focus on young people and how this links into bigger issues related to mental health, employment opportunities, youth work and tackling anti-social behaviour.  

Islay is also a member of the Marine Conservation Society’s Youth Ocean Network helping to drive forward young people’s engagement in saving our oceans. She has organized events across the UK, often giving talks to like-minded young people to help them kickstart their own advocacy journeys.  

With what little spare time she has left, Islay volunteers with Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park as a Junior Ranger, Youth Committee member, and recently as a youth representative on the National Park board. 

For all her fantastic work, Islay was nominated for the ‘Surfers Against Sewage’ Plastic Free Awards, placing runner-up for the Youth Activism Award from almost 600 nominees. 

Islay is an incredible MSYP and a very passionate, kind and thoughtful person. She was recently elected to represent Glasgow City within the UK Youth Parliament this year and is also a ‘Young Women Know’ National Champion. Her list of titles and group affiliations is almost as great as her desire to create a better future for herself and future generations!