WATCH: Black Scottish Adventurers aim to improve representation of ethnic minorities through adventure
Members of a fast-growing community of adventurers who aim to showcase Scotland’s stunning outdoors - particularly to ethnic minorities – have seen a surge in interest after becoming the stars of a new VisitScotland docu-style short film in the Cairngorms.
The Black Scottish Adventurers aim to improve representation of ethnic minorities within the Scottish outdoors, which in turn boosts their physical and mental wellbeing through adventure. They also educate members on how their everyday actions impact the planet.
VisitScotland has created a series of documentary-style short films to reach international audiences. They aim to tell stories through captivating people and places to showcase the connection that Scotland can give the visitor to nature and the outdoors.
The mini-docs, which sit on VisitScotland’s YouTube channel, tie in with popular tourism themes, such as food and drink and outdoor adventures, and feature unique experiences and organisations found across Scotland.
Josh Adeyemi, co-founder of BSA, said: “VisitScotland coming along with us on a day out in the Cairngorms National Park was a stamp of validation and reassurance to our members and followers that they belong in the outdoors - and also that the outdoors is for everyone.
“Since the video went live on VisitScotland’s YouTube channel, we’ve seen an uptick in new member registration and enquiries about our upcoming adventures - both locally and internationally.
“Our hope is that the video will not only showcase Scotland’s beautiful landscape but also showcase us, the under-represented in the outdoor space – enjoying it and looking after it.
“We hope that will inspire others to visit Scotland, see our country as an inclusive place where they can feel safe and enjoy the beauty of nature, and hopefully lead them kickstart their own outdoor connections in their own way.
“It was our first time working with VisitScotland and It was an absolute joy. We are delighted that they are championing and promoting inclusivity within Scotland and particularly our outdoor space.”
The group has members - and adventures - across Scotland, from the Scottish Borders to Inverness and beyond. They also have members join them from England and Wales as well as internationally, including America, France and the Netherlands.
Josh said: “We haven’t yet had the opportunity to work or partner with any other local tourism businesses to cross promote the area or our activities.
“We’ve worked with various organisations, from national parks and governmental organisations to outdoor brands and we are always open to collaboration to promote Scotland and its many beautiful destinations.
“We have world-class access rights in Scotland but most of us are unaware of this. Through education and representation, we believe that not just our members - but everyone who’s connected with us both home and abroad - will be inspired to kickstart their own connection with the outdoors, while also becoming more aware of environmental issues and how they can play their part.”
Stuart Brunton, senior production and multimedia manager at VisitScotland, said: “We wanted to create inspiring content that shows incredible and unique experiences you can have in Scotland, and that reflects our brand proposition ‘Good for the Soul’.
“Visitors are looking for travel options that connect them to nature and give an escape and we set out to find inspiring stories that can offer just that. Black Scottish Adventurers and their passion for Scotland and connecting with nature is infectious and we think that comes across perfectly in this video.
“Their aim to get people enjoying the outdoors responsibly in the Cairngorms National Park has given such a positive experience to their community of walkers and we hope to do the same through this stunning video.
“It's about viewing Scotland from a visitor’s perspective – whether it be in the shadow of our world-renowned mountains or fleeting footsteps in the sand at sunset.”
The group doesn’t just walk, but also organises other activities including cycling, paddleboarding, swimming, running, bungee jumping and coasteering.
Josh added: “We named our group BSA in order to include and not exclude. Everyone who loves nature and good vibes in the outdoors is welcome - our members are not just limited to ethnic minorities.
“If you have a sense of adventure and want to learn more about environmental sustainability, irrespective of your background, religion or sexual identity, you are welcome at BSA. We are all about fun and building connections that last.”
To learn more about BSA and to watch the video here
