Tom Stoltman hails ‘Diamond’ Black Isle teenager Orlagh MacIver on 1000 hours of volunteering
A REMARKABLE Ross-shire teenager who has already rubbed shoulders with royalty has long been regarded an absolute gem in her local community.
So fittingly, Fortrose Academy pupil Orlagh MacIver (16) has now been presented with a prestigious Diamond Hoodie - marking over 1000 hours of volunteering with the High Life Highland Young Leadership programme.
Orlagh, also a recipient of an Eric Liddell Award – which recognises individuals who give selflessly to their local communities – has spoken of the benefits of “giving back” in the wake of her latest success.
The Diamond Hoodie presentation took place at her secondary school with the World’s Strongest Man and leadership programme ambassador, Tom Stoltman, doing the honours alongside his brother Luke, who holds Britain and Europe's Strongest Man titles.
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Orlagh has been volunteering in a number of capacities for the last five years, including at the Cromarty Youth Café.
She’s since been leading multi-sports sessions, arts and craft groups as well as intergenerational gatherings in her local community.
She has also been involved in fundraising for the James Support Group and Mikeysline – which helped her achieve her Platinum Hoodie last summer.
Orlagh is also a recipient of an Eric Liddell Award – which recognises individuals who give selflessly to their local communities – resulting in a meeting with The Princess Royal at the awards ceremony in Edinburgh. That was a moment which she describes as one of her greatest experiences of her volunteering career.
Orlagh said: “Over the years of my volunteering journey, my confidence and knowledge has developed greatly. I am now more outgoing and am more likely to speak up in situations I wouldn’t have before. I’ve learnt many valuable skills for life, that I’ll definitely keep with me as I grow older.
“Overall, I enjoy giving back to my town and community, being a friendly face and someone people can look up to. I particularly value the bonds and friendships I have made through my volunteering.”
Elizabeth MacDonald, leadership programme development officer with High Life Highland, said: “Orlagh is an exceptional Young Leader who has shown an overwhelming amount of commitment and self motivation.
“She has dedicated an enormous amount of time and effort helping to make life better in her local community and supporting mental health charities.”
The Leadership Programme is open to young people aged 12-25 years – they do not need to be at school – and although underpinned by leadership in sport and youth work, the awards can be utilised by young people volunteering in clubs, libraries, facilities, and other community sectors.
The High Life Highland Leadership Programme Hoodie milestones are navy, purple, green, red, silver, gold, platinum and diamond.
To find out more about that, see here.
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