August 12, 2026 - 266 views
Wednesday August 12th is International Youth Day – a day dedicated to celebrating young people, recognising their contribution to our communities and highlighting the opportunities and challenges facing the next generation.
The 2026 theme is “Different Contexts, Common Aspirations”, recognising that while young people's experiences may be very different, they share many of the same hopes for opportunity, belonging and a positive future.
We've been marking International Youth Day right across Bayside Radio, and as part of our coverage Simon was joined by Scott Jenkinson from Youth Shedz Cymru to talk about the fantastic work being done with young people across North Wales.
Youth Shedz is an award-winning North Wales initiative providing safe, welcoming spaces where young people can develop skills, build confidence, discover their strengths and find a sense of belonging. Its ethos is centred around giving young people a place to belong, a purpose to pursue and an identity to celebrate.
The organisation was founded by Scott after his own experiences of addiction, homelessness and time in prison. He went on to rebuild his life through education, eventually qualifying as a teacher, and says that experience of finding a new identity and purpose helped shape the idea behind Youth Shedz. The first Youth Shed was developed following work with young people in Denbigh, with an ambition that every town could eventually have its own Shed.
Today, Youth Shedz provides opportunities for young people to learn new skills, work alongside positive role models and get involved in projects that benefit their communities. The approach is deliberately inclusive, with young people having a say in how their local Shed develops and the activities they take part in.
The organisation has supported young people through activities ranging from practical skills such as woodwork and bike repairs to creative projects, volunteering, sport and community initiatives. Youth Shedz has also worked with young people in places including Colwyn Bay, Abergele, Kinmel Bay, Llandudno Junction and Blaenau Ffestiniog.
And that makes our conversation with Scott particularly fitting for International Youth Day – because it is ultimately about giving young people the space, encouragement and opportunities to discover what they are capable of.
Listen to Simon's conversation with Scott Jenkinson and hear more about Youth Shedz Cymru, the challenges facing young people and the positive difference being made in communities across North Wales.
To find out more about Youth Shedz Cymru and its work, visit Youth Shedz Cymru
