Who are you and what do you do at Granton Youth?
Hi, I’m Ryan – The Youth Work Manager at Granton Youth. My role is to plan our weekly youth clubs and groups, co-ordinate activities and programs to engage young people, and make sure Granton Youth becomes better known in the wider community of North Edinburgh and beyond. I also run our Mixtape Music Club – which brings young people together, creates meaningful connections between themselves and staff, and helps young people become more rounded individuals through a focus on music. In addition, I provide 1-2-1 support to a number of young people in the community when they have a specific need, or just want someone to talk to.

When did you join Granton Youth/what were you doing before this?
I joined as an Adult Volunteer in late 2018. I then moved on to still doing this but got a job as a support worker for people with additional needs, in order to get more experience of working with young people, alongside my old job at a high street bank. I then put together the aforementioned music based project called “Mixtape” which we still run now, and was successful in applying for my current role in July 2021.

What made you want to work with Young People?
I wanted to do something more rewarding with my life and career and, although it sounds cheesy, “give something back”. I think that from a young age you really remember the interactions you have with positive adult figures in your life, be that a teacher, carer, or family member – and I wanted to try and be that person for as many young people as possible.

What do you enjoy most about your job?
I love seeing young people find their passion and talking about this with them, it gives me a real buzz. The fact that Granton Youth removes barriers that I myself encountered as a young person and provides so many different opportunities is something I’m really proud of.

What do you like to do in your spare time?
My main interest is music so you’ll normally find me at a gig with friends, trying to write my own songs, or listening to records. I love travelling and seeing new places, keeping active, and cooking. These things – together with my family, friends, wife Hollie, and two dogs (Hovis and Zuzu) make me happy!