The residential weekend was held from 8 to 9 February 2025 at the Golden Jubilee Conference Hotel in Clydebank. Organised by the STUC Youth Committee, the event aimed to foster a diverse and inclusive environment where young leaders could learn, share experiences, and build the skills necessary to advocate for fair work and equality within their respective fields.
The PDA delegates who took part in the event were Soh Xi Ken, a pharmacist and PDA Workplace Rep in NHS Lothian, and Isla Shah, a pharmacy student and PDA Student Rep at the University of Strathclyde.
The weekend was packed with engaging sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities. Attendees were provided with breakfast, lunch and dinner along with overnight accommodation, ensuring they could fully immerse themselves in the experience without any distractions.
One of the key takeaways from the conference was the emphasis on diversity and inclusion. The STUC Youth Committee worked diligently to ensure that there was a wide representation of young trade unionists from various backgrounds to reflect the rich diversity of the Scottish trade union movement. This inclusive approach not only enriched the discussions but provided a broader perspective on the challenges and opportunities faced by young leaders today.
Soh Xi Ken said, “It was an excellent weekend spent speaking to young workers and learning about organising a movement and reinforcing the idea that leaders aren’t the sole figure waving a flag and leading the way for a revolution like the romantic idea we have of leaders in our everyday life. Instead, it’s the collaborative social contract we build with each other. Understanding our own strengths and weaknesses and holding each other accountable is what truly creates meaningful change.
We want change because young workers, especially those in hospitality, deserve a good wage and respect and because our possible or perceived lack of experience is seen as disposable or not valuable, whereas our fresh pair of eyes say the opposite. We bring fresh ideas and new perspectives, notwithstanding that every single worker deserves a good job, wage and respect, as per the Fair Work 2025 vision for Scotland.”
Isla Shah said, “I had a really good time at the weekend event! I learned a lot there and it was great to meet other young union reps. I’ve always had an idea of how some things could change for the better at my university and after the weekend I feel equipped with the practical skills to actually do something.”
These reflections showcase the positive impact that such events can have on young professionals by inspiring them to take on leadership roles within their unions and beyond.
The PDA encourages all young members to consider getting involved in future events like this. Trade union membership offers a wealth of opportunities for personal and professional development, and the PDA is dedicated to helping members make the most of these opportunities.
There are numerous ways to get involved and make a difference, such as attending conferences, participating in workshops, or engaging in advocacy efforts.
The PDA looks forward to seeing the positive impact that Xi Ken and Isla will have within the PDA and the broader trade union movement. The PDA hopes that other young members take advantage of similar opportunities in the future.
Members who are particularly interested in taking part in events in Scotland are encouraged to contact Paul Flynn, PDA National Officer for Scotland by emailing [email protected].
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