When Kirsty wrote to thank us last Christmas for the support she’d received through Venture Trust, we were delighted to hear from her. We recently caught up with her to find out how she’s been since completing the programme and to reflect on her experience.
By Kirsty Bryson
When I was 23, I was involved in the criminal justice system and my social worker referred me to Venture Trust. At the time, I didn’t really know what to expect, but I agreed to take part in a personal development programme, which included a five-day wilderness journey.
We were based around Aberfeldy, and I remember just how beautiful it was. One moment that has really stayed with me was one night when we were camping on top of a hill. There was snow on the ground, and when I looked up at the sky, I could see more stars than I ever had before. Without the usual light from towns and cities, it honestly took my breath away.
We did lots of activities during the week. Some were challenging, like rock climbing in the rain on slippery rocks, but I still gave it a go. I drew the line at abseiling though. That was a step too far for me!
One of the biggest things for me was the digital detox. We didn’t have our phones for the full five days. At first, I thought I might struggle, but actually I found it really calming. It gave me the chance to properly take things in, from the fresh air to the trees and flowers around us, instead of just seeing everything through a screen.
The following year, I came back to take part in the Green Futures employability programme in Edinburgh. That helped me build practical skills like writing a CV and preparing for interviews, alongside activities like climbing, walking and even wood carving, which I’d never tried before.
Looking back, the biggest change for me has been my confidence. I feel much more comfortable speaking to new people and saying how I feel. Before, that felt impossible. Now I realise that people aren’t as intimidating as I once thought, they’re just people like me.
Life feels calm and content now. I’m clean and sober, living with my boyfriend and our dog Ginny, and I’m thinking about going to college to study graphic design.
Last Christmas, I wrote a letter to the Venture Trust team to say thank you. I wanted them to know the impact they had on me, not just during the programmes, but in how I now approach everyday life. In that letter, I shared that the biggest change I’d seen in myself was my confidence, how I’m no longer nervous to speak out, and how I feel more comfortable talking to new people.
I also wrote about the small things that have stayed with me, like trying yoga after being introduced to it on the course, and how much that has helped my mental health.
If I could say one thing to someone thinking about taking part in Venture Trust, it would be this:
Do it. You won’t regret it. You’ll learn skills that stay with you, meet people who understand, and realise you’re capable of more than you think.
You can find out more about our Personal Development Programmes here.
