Trust supports young people to create and star in films about nature

New short film series explores young people's connections with the outdoors

The Trust has today released a series of films to help share what young people think about their connection with nature and the outdoors.

Featuring young people talking about their experiences of wildness in country parks, on mountain sides and in National Parks, the project was inspired by Scottish Government's Year of Young People 2018; during which the Trust commissioned an up-and-coming film maker, 22 year-old Martin MacLeod, to direct, shoot and edit a series of films to help share what young people think about their connection with nature and the outdoors.

“This project has made me reflect on the outdoors a lot more. Asking the question of how you engage with the outdoors to the young people I met, made me think about the role of film to inspire others about nature. I hope that’s what the films have done in the end.” says Martin MacLeod.

This (series of 2 minute films) includes an initial film showcasing a variety of young people’s voices - and the places, connections and ideas that matter to them.

A suite of films follow case studying several young people, their experiences and views about wild places.

These include: Sarra’s story a volunteer who finds peace in her favourite outdoor place, Glasgow's Pollok Park; Izzy’s story about giving back to nature by planting trees at East Schiehallion; and Oscar's and Tommy's story; Junior Rangers who share their feelings and ideas in national parks and locally.

“It’s been fascinating hearing the positivity, personal connections, and concerns – we’ve heard how wild places and young people need each other, in particular the value that wild nature can make to young people’s wellbeing.” says Toby Clark, John Muir Award Scotland Manager.

The project was made possible thanks to funding from National Lottery Heritage Fund that enabled us to capture the voices of young people and their connections with wild places through the lens of a young person.

• Watch all four films (here)
• Meet the filmmaker – (read our interview with Martin MacLeod)
• See the Trust’s dedicated Young people and nature web pages collating research and feedback, information on initiatives such as #iwill4nature youth social action, and stories to highlight the ways that young people can, and do, take practical action for nature.