Staff Blog Post – Q&A with our Corporate Fundraiser, Katie

Katie. Tell us a bit about yourself. Have you always been an outdoorsy person?

I have! I grew up on a farm in Aberdeenshire and spent most of my childhood running around the local woodland, forcing my hayfever afflicted friends to make wee hoosies out of bales and desperately trying to ‘rescue’ baby animals that were incredibly ungrateful.

I love to be outdoors, particular passions are long walks (with my faithful hound) and hikes and outdoor swimming or dipping!

You’ve been with VS since May – what do you like most about your role?

I LOVE getting to talk to people about their passions which makes fundraising an awesome job because people are taking on a challenge or activity that they’re excited about for a cause that they feel strongly for – it makes for some brilliant chats!

For Venture Scotland I am specifically working with businesses and organisations in Scotland to support young people to get the support that they deserve. I find this incredibly rewarding because businesses are filled with people with different ideas and projects who are all excited to help. From office bake sales and quizzes to personal challenges and team efforts – there are lots of different ways that organisations can help Venture Scotland, and I love that I get to help that happen.

Venture Scotland believes that nature and the outdoors are key to maintaining and improving health and wellbeing – what do the outdoors mean to you?

I always feel better after being outside – I’m a Glasgow gal now and even coming back in from a doggy walk in stair-rods rain, getting soaking wet – I’m still always glad I went out. Outdoors means a physical gap in time and space from whatever to-do list I’m obsessing over at that moment.

It often means spending time with friends and family, going on adventures and larking about!

What’s your favourite VS memory?

I have recently been away to my first All Team Meeting and was introduced to a favourite game of VS – King of the Jungle! I was a bit nervous about being shown up by these more experienced players, and then I was nervous that my incredibly competitive side might come out in a bit too much force. But I somehow managed to keep it in check and create an animal impression that no one ever wanted to attempt in the heat of the game – think horse-y lips, neigh with a head shake thrown in.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about starting the programme?

Oh my goodness, do it. If you’re looking for some support and time to figure yourself out a little, around some amazing people, this programme is for you. If you want to try lots of fun, adventurous and new activities in a totally safe environment, join us.

If you could only take part in one more activity session with VS, what activity would it be and why?

I had to google ‘weasling’ before my interview and I’ve still never been, so I think I’d have to go with that brand new experience, for me!

What’s your favourite joke?

What did the beach ball do once it had rolled down the hill?

Looked round!

✨