Stuart Picken

OYT Scotland is a charity that provides life-changing adventures under sail for young people, regardless of circumstance or ability. A leading provider of residential youth work, it relies on the work of its volunteers - many of whom end up volunteering after taking part in one of our residential voyages. Stuart first sailed onboard our vessels as a young person in 2009. While onboard he proved to be a rising star. His enthusiasm for adventure under sail was contagious. His Skipper was greatly impressed and invited him back to become a volunteer member of sea staff. After his training weekend, Stuart became a popular face onboard our boats, volunteering for six weeks of his gap year. Armed with unlimited energy, passion and determination, Stuart makes the perfect role model for young people. Stuart is the catalyst onboard - his character and empathy encourage the young people to challenge themselves and realise their true potential. Towards the end of 2009, Stuart had caught the bug for sail training. In 2010, he embraced the opportunity to become a full time volunteer with OYT Scotland and, as a participant of the ASTO skipper scheme, in November he gained his RYA Yachtmaster Offshore certificate. Last season Stuart helped deliver 28 voyages, inspiring 336 young people find their Adventure under Sail. He has progressed quickly through the ranks and is now preparing for his first mate assessment. Aged 19, he is one of our youngest volunteers to reach this stage.