Youth champion Fiona honoured with MBE
Lochgilphead-based centre manager ‘shocked but delighted’
The manager of a Lochgilphead-based youth group has been recognised in the Queen’s 2020 New Year Honours List.
Fiona Kalache, manager of Mid Argyll Youth Development Services (MAYDS), will receive a Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE) for services to young people in Mid Argyll.
Fiona, 41, said she was ‘shocked but delighted’ when she heard about the MBE.
She added: ‘This is an award for all the people at MAYDS, from staff, committee, volunteers, funders and partner agencies to the children, young people and their families who have helped shape a service that has made a real difference across the area.’
MAYDS activities provide a safe and welcoming environment for up to 300 children and young people each week who have fun with peers and participate in a wide variety of activities.
She became manager of Mid Argyll Youth Project in January 2008, then a two-nights-a-week youth club. Rapid growth followed with Fiona at the helm and, over time, funds brought in have exceeded £1 million.
In 2011, the unincorporated club was converted into Mid Argyll Youth Development Services, a community company limited by guarantee. Today MAYDS works with young people aged up to 25 and offers a number of services including a cyber cafe, meeting rooms, trips, community cinema and swimming.
The company works with a range of young people including young carers, young parents, young people with disabilities and those looking for fun activities.
Support is given for those who have difficulties with drugs and alcohol abuse and training is provided to improve their job opportunities.
Fiona has worked with social services providing support for youngsters from disadvantaged backgrounds and with some who lead chaotic lives. Working with the NHS, she has delivered regular sessions in schools in Mid Argyll and on Islay dealing with issues relating to alcohol, drugs, substance misuse and sexual health.
MAYDS is continuing to raise money for a planned new centre beside its current hall on Union Street, Lochgilphead.
Asked for a particular memory of her time at MAYDS, Fiona replied: ‘There’s been so much over the years. But when you see the people we have helped, from young carers to young people who are struggling, making a success of their lives, that’s what stands out for me.’
Wildlife cameraman Gordon Buchanan, originally from Mull, also receives an MBE. Elsewhere in Argyll, head of mathematics at Oban High School Nan Johnstone and accordion player Alasdair Macdonald from Connel will each receive a British Empire Medal (BEM), while Patrick Stewart MBE, Lord Lieutenant of Argyll and Bute, has been appointed a Companion of the Royal Victorian Order, recognising distinguished personal service to the Queen or the monarchy.