Search on for Scotland’s forgotten heroines

CAMPAIGN: Women across region urged to make case for the difference makers

Campaigners behind a project to celebrate Scotland’s forgotten heroines want to hear from women across Courier Country.

The Scotswummin project will see 40 young people investigate influential and potentially unnoticed women in their communities from the past and present.

Launched by YouthLink Scotland and funded by the Heritage Lottery, the aim of the campaign is to build a picture of women in Scotland who have shaped the nation.

The project wants to hear from folk across Tayside and Fife about the achievements of women locally and nationally – from all walks of life – and sign a pledge for equality.

A #scotswummin project spokeswoman said: “From the discovery of the Falkirk urban legend ‘Granny’ to a mother and daughter team raising international development funding, our aim is build a picture of the women in Scotland that have shaped our nation.

“It would be fantastic to hear about girls and women in Courier Country who have made, or are making, an impact in their communities.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has lent her support to the campaign.

She said: “Women have made an enormous contribution across medicine, arts, law – every walk of life – and it’s really important that we celebrate these achievements, for their own sake but also to inspire the next generation.”

Julia Doroszko and Amy Rose Lumsden, both aged 14, are involved in Falkirk Council’s #scotswummin project.

“We didn’t know about any women in the town who’ve made history, so interviewing local people for #scotswummin is an eye-opening experience,” said Julia.

“It’s amazing the stories we’re hearing about strong, influential women like ‘Granny Mackay’, a forgotten lady who helped deliver hundreds of babies during the 1920s.”

Lisa Gallacher of YouthLink Scotland said: “This project is an exciting opportunity to uncover the stories of fascinating women and celebrate their contribution to society.

To get involved in the project, see www.scotswummin.org.

Getting inspired: Becca Duffell and Fozzia Ali do their research.