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She said: “Hostelling is hugely popular among young people across Europe, but in Scotland, it’s often seen as outdated or only for the countryside.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.

Got a story to share? Send us an email at hello[@]whatsonnetwork.co.uk

Latest Fife News

Much loved classic Scottish play, The Steamie, is set to return to venues in 2026

The Steamie has been scrubbed up ahead of making a return to theatres across the country next year as part of an exciting new chapter in its long-standing story in the theatre landscape.

Medea to tour Scotland in 2026

Bard in the Botanics will be launching their 25th Anniversary year with a Scotland-wide tour of their award-winning version of Medea, by Kathy McKean (after Euripides).

Imagine Theatre prepares for an exciting season of pantomimes across Scotland

Imagine Theatre proudly presents a spectacular lineup of family pantomimes across Scotland bursting with laughter, music, sparkle, and dance starring some of Scotland's best-loved entertainers!

Step into the magic at Dobbies Garden Centres

Dobbies Garden Centres has a fantastic line up of Santa’s Grotto and Quiet Grotto experiences, with an exciting North Pole adventure inspired theme, running from 23rd November - 24th December.

Scottish Ensemble announce projects for Spring and Summer 2026

Scottish Ensemble, a pioneering collective of musicians championing music for strings, announces its series of events for Spring/Summer 2026.

Aldi Scotland is turning up the Christmas cheer with its first ever festive Supermarket Sweep

Aldi Scotland is giving one lucky customer the chance to take part in a seasonal edition of its popular shopping challenge, all while raising vital funds for Children's Hospices Across Scotland.

Hidden treasures of Murrayfield

Murrayfield heritage lead Laura Tinch reveals hidden collection of 5,000 artefacts charting a century of Scottish rugby history.

Santa clocks in early: Scotland shift heroes among 30,000 invited to claim free festive meal

Greene King pubs is raising the spirits of Scotland's hardest workers this festive season, hosting 'The Big Christmas Shift' across 700 pubs nationwide, giving away 30,000 meals on Monday 1st December

Festive days out to make the most of the season

From wreath-making workshops through to New Year’s Eve street parties, here's a rounded up some of the best events to help make the most of the season with loved ones in a fun and creative way.

SAY Award winner announced as Kai Reesu

Kai Reesu’s ‘KOMPROMAT vol.i’ was tonight announced as winner of The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award, as the country’s national music prize Ceremony took place in Dundee’s Caird Hall.

Public vote opens for Scottish Jazz Awards 2025 as scene flourishes

A stellar lineup of nominees has been announced for the Scottish Jazz Awards 2025, showcasing the exceptional talent flourishing across Scotland's vibrant jazz scene.

Heroes call on Scottish rugby fans to vote for the greatest Murrayfield rugby moment

SCOTTISH rugby fans have been called upon to cast their vote for the greatest ever Murrayfield rugby moment as part of celebrations marking the national stadium’s centenary.

The Christmas tradition of the year is back...

Scotland's biggest Christmas drive-in returns: 11 days of Elf, Home Alone & more at Loch Lomond Shores!

First Bus gives Remembrance free travel for all Armed Forces, veterans and cadets

First Bus is offering free travel for all veterans and UK Armed Forces personnel travelling to Remembrance Day activities of Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day.

Scotland Meats Germany

Scotland's favourite beer, Tennent's Lager, has unveiled the world's first ever Square Wurst - a Scottish classic with a German twist - to mark the launch of Tennent's Bavarian Pilsner.

Scottish Ensemble brings warmth to wintry nights with Concerts by Candlelight tour

Concert by Candlelight, Scottish Ensemble's celebrated long-running winter tour, returns for eight awe-inspiring performances in intimate settings around Scotland this December.

Feel the festive cheer at Dobbies Charity Christmas Shopping Night

Dobbies is encouraging customers to come along to their nearest store and to be the first to shop exclusive Black Friday offers at its late-night shopping event, in aid of Alzheimer's Research UK.

Autumn Offers at Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection

Marine & Lawn Hotels & Resorts Collection have launched new offerings designed to inspire cosy autumn getaways and early festive escapes across Scotland.

The Scottish Excellence Awards are open for entries

Nominations are open for the highly anticipated Scottish Excellence Awards 2026, a celebration of Scotland's hospitality, foodservice and tourism sectors.

Dobbies Garden Centres hosts free to attend winter gardening workshop for kids

Dobbies is hosting a free-to-attend monthly gardening workshop on Sunday 2 November, for children across the country to discover how they can encourage winter birds into the garden.

Potential changes to permitted development rights are putting beloved live music venues at risk

The public are urged to take part in the Scottish Government's consultation on planning laws, warning that the changes could put the country's live music venues and pubs at risk. 

Fife Athlete Wins Silver at Virtus World Athletics Championships

Fife-based performance wear specialist, Keela, celebrates team member’s international success at the 11th Virtus World Athletics Championships in Brisbane, Australia.

The Saltires 2025 Shortlists Announced

The shortlisted titles for this year’s Saltires, Scotland’s National Book Awards, were announced at Blackwell’s bookshop in Edinburgh.

KT Tunstall wins Modern Scottish Classic Award, plus SAY Award Shortlist reveal

The Scottish Album of the Year (SAY) Award has unveiled the 10 Shortlisted albums now in the running for 2025’s title and £20,000 prize, as well as five Sound of Young Scotland finalists.

Eden Mill Unveils World Class Distillery and Visitor Centre in St Andrews

Eden Mill has cut the ribbon on its landmark new distillery and visitor centre on the banks of the Eden Estuary, just outside the historic Home of Golf.

Loch Lomond Shores has got the October school holidays sorted

There's loads to see and do – from pet friendly days out to breakfast with dinosaurs, loch tours and much more!

Keela and Mountaineering Scotland launch new campaign

Keela, the Scottish outdoor clothing brand, and Mountaineering Scotland Launch ‘Within You’, an new three-month campaign, inspiring Confidence, Connection, and Adventure in the Outdoors!

Book Week Scotland 2025 programme announced

Scotland's national celebration of books, Book Week Scotland, returns from 17th to 23rd November and tickets are on sale now!

Dobbies donates Christmas trees to local communities

Dobbies Garden Centres is lifting community spirits this season with a Christmas tree donation across the country, in partnership with Needlefresh.

Football legends lace up for 150 mile charity walk inspired by Marcus Stewart, Stephen Darby and the late Doddie Weir

Former Celtic and Scotland football heroes to join ex-player with MND on 150-mile March of The Day to raise funds to help tackle the disease.

Popular Listings

Adam Smith Theatre Alhambra Theatre Dunfermline Carnegie Hall Corn Exchange Cupar Kings Theatre Kirkcaldy Lochgelly Centre PJ Molloys Rothes Halls Teasses Estate The Byre Theatre St Andrews

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.

Sponsored Links

Latest Fife News

Sponsored Links

Sponsored Links

Popular Events

Popular Listings