For several years we have been actively involving young people in our campaigning work, in particular through our Creative Campaigners group open to those aged 20-30, as we are aware that the future sustainability of the Yorkshire Dales will be shaped by the next generation.
We are now seeking contributions for the summer 2025 issue of our quarterly membership magazine, Yorkshire Dales Review, from those aged 20-30.
“Young people are naturally very switched on to the challenges facing our national park,” said executive director Ann Shadrake. “From big picture concerns like global warming and climate breakdown, to the perhaps less obvious but equally acute nature and biodiversity crises, to issues affecting people’s ability to live, work in or reach the Dales. There is so much that is already affecting young people’s access to nature and their quality of life − and without action and activism these things are unlikely to improve.”
Our conscious effort to engage with younger people started in early 2020 with the production of the 150th edition of the Yorkshire Dales Review which was created and compiled by a total of 16 contributors, all of whom were under 30.
In 2023 Creative Campaigners was set up in consultation with two local young people – Ruth Garrett who created the brand and concept for it and Saima Bibi who brought insight and organisational skills to the design and launch. Over the past two years the group has hosted a litter pick as well as running a successful ‘Curlew Awareness’ day at Malham written or illustrated for our magazine.
“With this summer marking five years since the production of the original youth edition and with the knowledge that our Creative Campaigners are relishing the opportunity to campaign about environmental issues close to their heart, it seemed like the perfect time to invite a younger demographic and voice to contribute to another special issue. We wish to publish factual features, opinion pieces, photography, illustrations and even poetry from young people with a voice and a passion about the Yorkshire Dales they wish to share.”
The editorial team are especially keen to gather submissions from people aged 20-30 who either live in or work in the Dales, answering the question “What needs to change for you to have a better future in the Dales?”
Whilst we cannot guarantee that all submissions will be printed in the magazine, we will ensure that every submission is published, either on our website or social media platform.
To download copies of previous issues of Yorkshire Dales Review click here.
Please send submissions (150-250 words only!) in answer to “What needs to change for you to have a better future in the Dales?” to our membership and events officer, Victoria Benn.
Photo by Harriet Gardiner, CNP