Aviemore volunteer receives Saltire award for commitment to wildlife projects
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A hard working youngster from Aviemore has been congratulated on receiving the Saltire Summit award in recognition of his commitment to volunteering.
Xander Johnson (15), affectionately known as 'Ant Boy', received his award at an online event with several other young Highland people doing great things in their communities.
The Summit Award is the pinnacle of Saltire awards given to young people in recognition of their commitment to volunteering.
Xander has participated in a range of projects, including volunteering with the Rare Invertebrate at Cairngorms National Park, where he has been involved in surveys for six rare species insects. He has also been involved with the Kingussie High School youth forum, including exploring ways to tackle issues related to mental health.
He is one of nine volunteers to receive the award, which recognises volunteering of over 500 hours while showing an exceptional commitment to the cause.
Xander said: "I enjoy giving back to the area and its wildlife. I also like that I’m supplying important data about rare species who are all part of a bigger chain but get very little airtime.
"It’s important for me to look at the bigger picture but be involved at a local level."
He met with MSP for Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, Kate Forbes, on Friday, March 3, for a short walk along the Speyside Way where Xander demonstrated where some of his volunteering takes place.
He was then presented with his award by Voluntary Action Badenoch & Strathspey community development officer Mairi Brown.
Ms Forbes said: “After presenting him virtually with a Saltire Summit Award earlier in the pandemic, I was delighted to join Xander in person for a brisk walk in Aviemore along part of the Speyside Way.
“His dedicated volunteering is very impressive, as is his encyclopaedic knowledge of ants – and Xander was kind enough to present me with a copy of his book – ‘Guide to the Wood Ants of the UK’ – which has been published with the help of the Cairngorm National Park Authority.
“Xander’s passion for the local environment was very clear, and demonstrates how we can all help make a difference.”
Xander has also used his experience to encourage others to volunteer.
He said: "Volunteering is a great thing to be involved in. You’ll learn new things about nature, you’ll meet new people, become an expert in your field and have the chance to give back to your area."
"I set up my own YouTube channel with lots of information and facts about nature and how to get involved in making a difference in your local environment."
Xander's YouTube site can be found at www.antboy.co.uk.
Young people aged 12-25 involved in any kind of volunteering are encouraged to register with the Saltire Award scheme to be recognised for your volunteering at saltireawards.scot
