Hostelling Scotland launches appeal for Gen Z board members to help put the youth back into hostelling
THE organisation behind one of Scotland's most historic travel traditions is calling for young people to join its board as it seeks to capitalise on a surge in interest amongst Gen Z travellers.
Article Source: Hostelling Scotland
Last Updated: 7 February 2025 10:26
Image Credit: Beth Chalmers
More than 350,000 people visit one of Scotland’s 29 youth hostels and 24 affiliate hostels each year, helping the not-for-profit charity generate £9 million in turnover and contribute an estimated £25 million to the economy.
While the impact of Covid-19 pandemic and shifting trends in travel temporarily slowed hostelling's popularity amongst under 25s, Hostelling Scotland says interest has since soared amongst 18-24 year olds – narrowly behind only the 25-34 age group – signalling a revitalised hunger for affordable, social travel options.
The surging interest has prompted Hostelling Scotland to seek greater Gen Z representation on its board of trustees to help shape the future of the charity and its hostels, and make it even more appealing to future generations. The organisation wants to appoint three volunteer ‘adventure curators’ to its board of 12 trustees, who will contribute to improving its offering for younger people, and crucially its efforts to communicate and connect with Gen Z travellers.
While the hostelling experience is very different from when the charity was founded in 1931, perceptions have been slow to catch up. Hostelling has undergone an image change in recent years, driven by a programme of modernisation in the face of a more competitive market amid the rise of budget hotels and short-term lets. Hostelling Scotland’s portfolio now offers high-quality facilities across the board, including private en-suite rooms and stylish communal spaces.
Sophie Bell, 28, joined Hostelling Scotland’s board in 2018 after taking part in a Santander initiative designed to upskill young people in governance. Now a fundraising manager at Scottish homelessness charity Cyrenians, she credits her time on the board with boosting her career and wants to see more young people take on similar roles.
She said: “Hostelling is hugely popular among young people across Europe, but in Scotland, it’s often seen as outdated or only for the countryside. The reality is very different – modern hostels have great facilities, private rooms, and are in cities as well as rural areas. The biggest challenge is awareness. More young voices on the board will help shape the way we reach Gen Z, whether through social media, influencers, or other modern approaches.”
Sophie added that board experience offers personal and professional benefits, adding: “It’s given me insight into strategic decision-making, finance, and governance – things that have helped in my career. I’d encourage any young professional to go for it. You don’t need all the answers on day one, and the support available is fantastic.”
The call for new trustees is part of Hostelling Scotland’s wider commitment to board diversity, ensuring young people have a voice in shaping its future. No previous board experience is required, and successful applicants will receive training in charity governance, finance, and strategic leadership.
Margo Paterson, CEO of Hostelling Scotland, said: “We want our board to reflect the communities we serve. Young people bring fresh perspectives, creativity, and energy, and a more representative board will help us evolve. This is a great opportunity to develop leadership skills, gain governance experience, and shape the future of sustainable travel in Scotland.”
Hostelling Scotland is seeking applications from individuals passionate about sustainable travel and community. The role involves attending four to five board meetings per year, with some in person, and participating in a sub-committee.
To express interest and receive a nomination pack, email Margo at companysecretary@hostellingscotland.org.uk. Applications close on March 7 2025.
Sponsored Links
Latest Edinburgh News
Edinburgh STYLE returns to St James Quarter
Edinburgh STYLE returns to St James Quarter from Friday 28th - Sunday 30th March, bringing three days of fashion, beauty, and exclusive experiences to the heart of the capital.
READ MORE
Theatrical screenings take centre stage at Vue this spring
To coincide with World Theatre Day this Thursday (27 March), Vue venues in Scotland are bringing a selection of British productions to the big screen this spring.
READ MORE
500 plants up for grabs at Fort Kinnaird this weekend to celebrate Mothers Day
Fort Kinnaird is celebrating Mother’s Day by offering shoppers the chance to pick up a beautiful houseplant for free on Saturday (29th March).
READ MORE
The Scottish Gallery presents Victoria Crowe Decades
For Edinburgh Art Festival 2025, The Scottish Gallery presents Victoria Crowe Decades, celebrating the artist’s 80th year.
READ MORE
Get the inside scoop on the Edinburgh International Festival this weekend
On Saturday 29th and Sunday 30th March, a large yellow ice cream van will be stationed outside the Usher Hall to give audiences a flavour of the 2025 Festival programme.
READ MORE
Timorous Beasties bring bold design to St James Quarter ahead of Edinburgh Style 2025
Internationally acclaimed design studio, Timorous Beasties is delighted to be part of Edinburgh STYLE taking place between 28-30th March in St James Quarter.
READ MORE
A Summer of Resistance at the National Galleries of Scotland
National Galleries of Scotland announces the unmissable summer 2025 exhibition Resistance, conceived by acclaimed artist and filmmaker Steve McQueen.
READ MORE
Scottish youth hostelling charity launches initiative reviving funded breaks for disadvantaged young people and families
An organisation that runs youth hostels across Scotland is launching an initiative to provide free stays for disadvantaged young people and families.
READ MORE
Giant Lanterns to make long awaited return to Edinburgh Zoo
Edinburgh Zoo’s award-winning Giant Lanterns event is back this winter for the first time in six years.
READ MORE
Galactic Carnival Edinburgh set to land at West Side Plaza this May!
Get ready, Edinburgh! A brand-new, out-of-this-world experience is arriving this spring as Galactic Carnival Edinburgh makes its debut at West Side Plaza, Wester Hailes, from 2nd May to 25th May!
READ MORE
Edinburgh restaurant adds massage therapy to Mothers Day menu
An Edinburgh restaurant is adding a pop-up massage experience to its Mother’s Day menu to help pamper the city’s mums on Sunday 30th March.
READ MORE
TRNSMT reveals 18 big dance acts for Glasgow Green
BBC Radio 1 Dance is taking over the much-loved Boogie Bar to bring some of the best dance music to Glasgow Green this summer on 11-13th July!
READ MORE
UB40 ft. Ali Campbell brings legendary vibes to Kelpies Live at Helix Park
UB40 ft. Ali Campbell are set to light up Falkirk as part of Kelpies Live at Helix Park, marking a triumphant return to Scotland for one of music's most iconic acts.
READ MORE
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh welcome new Artist in Residence
Virgin Hotels Edinburgh is thrilled to announce the next Artist in Residence, Athens-born ‘Constantine.. the Artist’, who will take up residency from March to May 2025.
READ MORE
Tourism minister hails adventure and wellbeing tourism after visiting Lost Shore Surf Resort
Tourism minister, Richard Lochhead, has hailed the success of adventure and wellbeing tourism in Scotland after he visited Lost Shore Surf Resort, Europe’s largest inland surf destination.
READ MORE
Dynamic Earth unveils new year round Annual Pass
Dynamic Earth, Edinburgh’s Science Centre and Planetarium is set to transform visitor access with the introduction of a new year-round Annual Pass.
READ MORE
Aldi calls on children to design a poster for food action week
To mark Food Waste Action Week (17th – 23rd March), Aldi is calling on children in Scotland to design a poster that encourages people to reduce food waste.
READ MORE
21 Edinburgh businesses shortlisted in the British Business Awards
21 Edinburgh based companies are among the 143 from across the UK now vying for the top spot at the British Business Awards!
READ MORE
Giant gold girder stuns Scots as competition heats up
With three 18-carat golden girders worth £10,000 still out there, IRN-BRU unveils giant hanging girder to encourage Scots to get on the hunt!
READ MORE
The Causey to host first free on street projection event of the year
This Saturday 22 March, The Causey will be brought to life by Folk Tales for New Scots, a one-off exhibition, live storytelling and on-street projection event.
READ MORE
Open To Ideas Residency returns to Capital Theatres, The Studio
Now in it's third year, Open To Ideas, part of Open@TheStudio kicks off its residency programme this week with the first of four brand new projects.
READ MORE
Citadel Arts Group Celebrates 30th Birthday
2025 is Leith-based Citadel Arts Group 30th birthday and the group are marking the occasion in Leith Dockers Club, their home for the past twelve years, with a special ‘Play, Pie and Pint’.
READ MORE
Family fun awaits at Vue venues across Scotland this Easter break
From Wallace & Gromit to Sonic the Hedgehog, there’s plenty to enjoy at Vue venues across Scotland this Easter break.
READ MORE
Edinburgh Zoo to welcome sloth bears for the first time
Sloth bears will call the capital home for the first time ever as Edinburgh Zoo works to build a new habitat for the vulnerable species.
READ MORE
Introducing Moment George IV Bridge: A new standard in thoughtful hospitality
Edinburgh's hospitality scene has a new landmark... Moment George IV Bridge isn't just another Aparthotel - it's a reimagination of what a city stay can be.
READ MORE
Walk for Wellbeing expands to Edinburgh to champion wellbeing in hospitality
UK charity Hospitality Action’s annual fundraising event, Walk for Wellbeing, continues to grow in its sixth year by welcoming Edinburgh to the initiative.
READ MORE
New sculpture encouraging more women to pursue engineering roles comes to Scotland
The sculpture, by acclaimed artist Kelly Anna, represents engineer Alice Kan who played a key role in the manufacture of the Covid-19 vaccine and will be displayed at City Art Centre.
READ MORE
Somewhere By Nico Launches Its New Latin America Inspired Menu In Edinburgh
Somewhere by Nico is launching its highly anticipated new food and cocktail menu, transporting guests through the vibrancy, spirit, and soul of Latin America.
READ MORE
Foodies alert! Loch Lomond Springfest is back
Loch Lomond Springfest, one of Scotland's biggest FREE food festivals, is back on the 5th and 6th April at Loch Lomond Shores!
READ MORE
Macdonald Hotels & Resorts has curated a unique experience to help guests unwind
To mark World Sleep Day, Macdonald Hotels & Resorts is introducing the Sleep Retreat Essential Spa Break, designed to help guests prioritise rest and relaxation.
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links