The massively successful first outing for this event was fully booked, and welcomed delegates who are new to the sector, looking to build their careers, and speakers who were enthusiastic about sharing their wisdom with the future leaders of the Social Housing sector in Scotland.

Share’s Melanie Gilmour said: “As the learning and development executive at Share, and someone who sits on the committee of a housing association, I am classed as a Young Housing Professional, and therefore care deeply about the continued learning, support and encouragement of young people working their way through and up within the sector. I am so pleased that the Conference was as successful as it was, and it is all thanks to those who are part of our Young Housing Professional’s Network, set up by Share only a few years ago, to bring together those working in the sector for less than ten years to build skills, confidence, knowledge and a passion to learn and develop themselves.

“The network meets quarterly, and the group have covered sessions on building your career in housing, why you should join a board or committee, and mentoring within the sector. The network has proven so popular that Share was keen to give the Young Housing Professionals their own conference. For many, this was the first time they had ever attended a conference, and we are delighted by everyone’s enthusiasm on the day.

“We were joined firstly by Helen Shaw, the director of regulation at the Scottish Housing Regulator, who was keen to share the key facts in governance for housing with the attendees, and any implications of poor governance. This is something everyone within the sector will come across at some point in their career, so we felt was a necessary topic to cover at this event.

“Next up, Evie Copland, the director of customer and communities at Berwickshire Housing Association, delivered a session on ‘Leading as a (not so) young housing professional’. Evie has built her career in housing in the past decade and gave us an insight into her story; how she got to where she is now, and her advice to those looking to make their way within the sector. Delegates gained vital tips and tricks from Evie, which we are sure will lend them in great stead for a successful career.

“We then held a panel discussion all about ‘Encouraging the next generation of Housing Leaders’ to which we were delighted to be joined by David Bookbinder, director of the Glasgow and West of Scotland Forum; Linda Chelton, chief executive officer of Craigdale Housing Association; Jonathan Giddings-Reid, community regeneration officer of Elderpark Housing Association; and Janice Sheilds, director of Ruchazie Housing Association. Delegates heard about their pathway into housing, how they got to where they are today, their tips and tricks and their invaluable advice which I believe will help them have confidence within themselves, and the belief that they will get to where they want to be by setting themselves small goals but never stopping there.

“To conclude, Gordon Robertson, delivered a fantastic keynote on Imposter Syndrome. This helped delegates understand what the concept is, and how to overcome it. It will be beneficial, particularly for this group of people, as they grow their careers and find more opportunities for themselves.

“Overall, Share are so proud to have created the Young Housing Professional’s Network, which has flourished and been successful enough to be made into a Conference. I am especially proud and inspired after the event and think the future of the Social Housing Sector in Scotland is bright and full of promise.”

The next Young Housing Professional’s Network meeting is due to take place on the 8th of May, from 10-12pm at Partick Housing Association’s offices. In person spaces are limited, so we are pleased to say that you are more than welcome to join us remotely. To find out more information, and to be added to the Network, please contact info@share.org.uk.