Banana Flats youngsters recognised for local community improvement work driving local community change

Two 11-year-olds from the city’s famous “Banana Flats” have been recognised for their work to improve their local neighbourhood.

Edie Chaw and Tarek Hydara Estribio are both residents of the flats – formally known as Cables Wynd House – and are leading local campaigns to improve housing and green spaces.

Their work through YMCA Edinburgh’s youth advocacy groups has led to the charity being recognised on a global stage.

The youth-led initiatives were highlighted at the 2026 YMCA World Council in Toronto.

Edie and Tarek are involved in The Cables Wynd House Youth Residents Forum, where they presented a housing report to the City of Edinburgh Council.

They also work on local green space projects and climate-themed workshops as part of The Next Generation Youth Forum and Climate Change Group.

Mike Kerracher, Chief Executive Officer of YMCA Edinburgh, presented the organisation’s work alongside UN representatives to 1,400 delegates from 120 countries in Toronto.

YMCA Edinburgh has now called for more leadership opportunities for young people locally and nationally.

Edie Chaw said: “Sometimes people think only grown-ups know how to fix things, but kids see the neighbourhood differently.

“When you don’t only ask adults, but also ask what kids want, and when everyone actually listens to each other we can come together and combine our ideas to create something everyone wants.”

Tarek Hydara Estribio added: “Being part of these projects helps me learn how to communicate, work as a team, and socialise with lots of different people.

“It’s given us a real chance to speak up because we just want to be heard, and it feels great to know we’re actually helping to make things better.”

Mike Kerracher, CEO of YMCA Edinburgh, said: “Edie and Tarek are fantastic examples of what happens when young people are empowered to take the lead.

“True community change happens when we stop making decisions for young people and start making decisions with them, when we give them a genuine seat at the table and invest in their ideas, they shine.”

This international recognition follows a highly successful year for YMCA Edinburgh, which supported over 250 individuals across its services. Mentorship remains a cornerstone of the organisation’s success. Over the last year, 39 dedicated volunteer mentors provided vital one-to-one support to 59 young people. As a result, 98% of participants reported improved access to opportunities and 94% experienced enhanced wellbeing.

Over the last year, YMCA Edinburgh supported 250 individuals and delivered seven weeks of free holiday activities.

A total of 39 volunteer mentors provided one-to-one support to 59 young people, with 98% reporting improved access to opportunities and 94% experiencing enhanced wellbeing.

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