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She said: “Hostelling is hugely popular among young people across Europe, but in Scotland, it’s often seen as outdated or only for the countryside.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 Renfrewshire News
Celebrate love with your PAWfect Valentine at Dobbies Garden Centres
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting pet parents to celebrate Valentine's Day with their beloved furry friends in selected stores across the country!
READ MORE
Primary schools in Scotland given chance to win specifically curated Burns Supper from Aldi
Aldi Scotland is giving primary school pupils across Scotland the chance to enjoy a truly traditional Burns Supper, complete with all the trimmings, including a bagpiper.
READ MORE
Glasgow International Comedy Festival launches 2026 programme with over 100,000 tickets on sale
Glasgow International Comedy Festival has announced the full programme for 2026's event with 560 shows in 40 venues across the city from 11th - 29th March, and over 100,000 tickets now on sale!
READ MORE
Celebrate Burns Night 2026 at Flight Club
If you're looking for a fun way to celebrate Burns Night this year, head to Flight Club!
READ MORE
Calling all Gingers!
The IRN-BRU Carnival is showing appreciation to any fellow fiery headed pals by offering a bonus ride voucher to anyone visiting with ginger hair on Sunday 11th January!
READ MORE
Everything you need to know about Celtic Connections 2026
The renowned festival which every year transforms Glasgow in January into a must-visit destination for music lovers is now just over a week away.
READ MORE
Zizzi launches their January Birthday Jackpot
Zizzi's January Birthday Jackpot guarantees a special gift for adults born in January, with some lucky birthday guests receiving the jackpot prize - £100 towards their bill!
READ MORE
Litter picking dog charity aims to remove 44 million pieces of rubbish in 2026
Dog owners making an environmental New Year Resolution are hoped to boost the ranks of the Paws On Plastic charity to over 30,000 in 2026!
READ MORE
Brand new craft event encourages mindfulness, creativity and relaxation
Dobbies Garden Centres is inviting customers along to an afternoon of creativity, connection, and cake this January, with a brand-new Crafternoon Tea Club.
READ MORE
Famous faces share their DofE Award memories in celebration of their 70th anniversary
Anyone with a connection to The Duke of Edinburgh's Award is being invited to celebrate the charity's 70th anniversary by sharing their fondest DofE memories.
READ MORE
Dry or Try January: Flight Club is your go to January social spot
Whether you're ditching the booze and going dry for a month or embracing Try January with the goal of experiencing new things, Flight Club, ticks all the boxes!
READ MORE
Stellar year of successful events in Renfrewshire
It's been another successful year of events in Renfrewshire which attracted more than 120,000 attendees and generated more than £4.4million for the local economy.
READ MORE
First music, fitness and wellness festival in Scotland unveils all star programme for 2026 debut
Paisley Alive, Scotland's first festival to unite music, fitness and wellness, has confirmed the full programme for its inaugural event in Barshaw Park on 4 July 2026.
READ MORE
Christmas has arrived in Glasgow, The IRN BRU Carnival returns for its 106th year
Europe's largest indoor fun fair, The IRN-BRU Carnival, has opened to the public at Glasgow's SEC with its greatest show to date!
READ MORE
The River Inn launches dream wedding reception giveaway worth thousands
One lucky couple to win a luxury wedding reception for up to 100 guests... completely free!
READ MORE
Braehead Shopping Centre is your place for festive fashion, food and fun this Christmas
Christmas is in full swing at Braehead Shopping Centre, and Scotland's leading retail and leisure destination is once again the place to celebrate the magic of the festive season!
READ MORE
Lights on in Linwood
Crowds turned out in Linwood to see the town's Christmas lights switched on for 2025.
READ MORE
Renfrewshire and Ayrshire and Arran Lieutenancies host Together at Christmas Community Carol Service
This year, Renfrewshire along with Inverclyde, East Renfrewshire and Ayrshire will join communities across the UK in hosting a 'Together at Christmas' Community Carol Service in Paisley Abbey.
READ MORE
DF Concerts & Events launches The DF Academy
DF Concerts launches the DF Academy to strengthen pathways between education and Scotland's live music & events industry.
READ MORE
Win your way to the IRN BRU Carnival
The Duck Hunt is back bigger and better with over 150 ducks hidden across Glasgow and beyond!
READ MORE
Work to start on six play parks across Renfrewshire
Investment in Renfrewshire's play parks continues with work set to begin on a further six play parks.
READ MORE
Unique approach of Pam Hogg will inspire the next generation of young people in Paisley
The unique legacy of globally-renowned Paisley designer and artist Dr Pam Hogg will inspire the next generation of creative talent, her proud home community says.
READ MORE
DF Concerts & Events celebrates a year of sustainable and inclusive events
DF Concerts & Events is celebrating the success of their sustainability initiatives delivered across their major summer events in 2025.
READ MORE
Step into Christmas at Dalmeny Park with special festive menus and afternoon teas this December
Dalmeny Park is pulling out all the stops to make this festive season truly magical, unveiling its 2025 festive dining menus and afternoon teas available until 23rd December.
READ MORE
Winter Connections programme returns to support communities across Renfrewshire
A brand-new programme of free fun activities and events returns with Renfrewshire’s praised Winter Connections.
READ MORE
Scottish jazz talent in tune as award winners unveiled
The Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 celebrated the cream of the crop in the jazz scene on Sunday night, honouring outstanding artists and contributors at a memorable ceremony in Glasgow.
READ MORE
Anna Campbell Jones launches small batch Scottish botanical rum distilled in Glasgow
Interior designer, BBC Scotland's Home of the Year judge and entrepreneur Anna Campbell-Jones has released her first spirit.
READ MORE
New civic plaza and events space to be created in Erskine
A new civic plaza, garden and events space will be created in Erskine to provide a focal point for the local community.
READ MORE
Braehead Shopping Centre announces partnership to support local community
The partnership is calling on the local community to donate new children's pyjamas, ensuring every child in Renfrewshire has something cosy to unwrap this Christmas.
READ MORE
Erskine lights up for Christmas
Erskine's Christmas lights have been switched on for 2025 with locals turning out to enjoy the occasion!
READ MORESponsored Links
Sponsored Links