Can you tell us a little about yourself and what first inspired you to get involved with Who Cares? Scotland?
Hi, I’m Ethan, a Care Experienced member and now Board Member with Who Cares? Scotland!
I first got involved nearly four years ago through the incredible Harvard Summer School programme, which really opened my eyes to the opportunities and experiences that can come from being part of Who Cares? Scotland. Since then, I’ve stayed involved seeing firsthand the incredible work Who Cares? Scotland does for its members, providing advocacy, representation and opportunity.
But for me, what really keeps me here is the community. I’ve met so many brilliant people through this organisation and being part of a space where members can be themselves, feel understood and have people in their corner is really special. Personally, I feel as though I have so much I want to give back to Who Cares? Scotland. At the same time, as a Board Member, I have joined wanting members to know that their voices, experiences and ideas matter.
What has been the most rewarding part of being a Board member so far?
It’s incredibly rewarding taking part in and watching all the hard work that goes into coming up with and planning events such as the Summer Festival as an organisation and then seeing how happy it makes people on the day. Having been part of other successful programmess such as the Empowered Voices Programme I know how valuable they are to our members.
How has serving on the Board helped you grow, either personally or professionally?
As a full time student this has been an incredible way for me to gain vital experience in a field I am really passionate about working in, in the future.
Being on the Board has also given me a strong sense of responsibility and accountability. It has developed my ability to communicate professionally, teaching me to be more self-aware and to recognise the impact that my voice and actions can have on others. These are skills and qualities I will need throughout my studies and future career.
Why do you think it’s important that people with different backgrounds and experiences join the Board?
It is key that our Board is made up of people from all different backgrounds, it is what makes our decision making process varied and unbiased!
What would you say to someone who is thinking about applying but isn’t sure they’re “board material”?
There isn’t anyone who is not “board material.” I was unsure about joining at first but thanks to the support of those I now work with I was able to successfully apply to join. What matters to the board is that you can show the skills needed whilst bringing your own perspective and experience to the role.
What impact do you hope the Board will continue to make for Care Experienced people across Scotland?
I hope the Board will continue to make a positive difference to the lives of Care Experienced people across Scotland by supporting what Who Cares? Scotland does best. Providing advocacy whilst creating change and ensuring Care Experienced people have the same opportunities, support and ability to shape decisions that affect their lives.
In one sentence, why should someone consider joining the Who Cares? Scotland Board?
Joining the Who Cares? Scotland Board is a great way to champion change for the Care Experienced community!
We are looking for people who can bring a range of skills, knowledge and perspectives to our Board, with a strong commitment to improving the lives of Care Experienced people. We welcome people with different experiences and backgrounds who can bring fresh thinking and a willingness to work collaboratively and help shape the future of Who Cares? Scotland.
Interested? Find out more and apply to join the Board here.
