Mags Shares a Message with the Class of 2026

BID for Galashiels was honoured to be invited to address this year's Galashiels Academy Leavers' Ceremony, recognising the important role our organisation plays not only in supporting today's businesses, but in inspiring the next generation who will one day shape the future of our town.

Today's school leavers are tomorrow's business owners, employers, volunteers, community leaders and decision-makers. Investing in that next generation is just as important as supporting the businesses on our High Street today, and it was a privilege for BID Project Manager, Mags, to share a message of ambition, pride and community with the Class of 2026.

While encouraging students to embrace every opportunity ahead - whether that means university, apprenticeships, careers or travelling the world - Mags reminded them that no matter where life takes them, Galashiels will always be their town.

"I hope you travel. I hope you study, work, explore and have wonderful adventures ... but wherever life takes you, I hope you'll always think of Galashiels as your town."

The speech focused on a simple but powerful message: thriving communities aren't created by a handful of people doing extraordinary things. They're built by ordinary people choosing to care.

Supporting a local business. Volunteering at an event. Picking up a piece of litter. Smiling at visitors. Sharing an idea and helping make it happen. Individually these actions may seem small, but together they shape the places we live.

As Mags told the students: "Small actions, repeated by lots of people, transform a place."

Everyone at BID for Galashiels wishes this year's leavers every success. We hope they chase their ambitions, explore the world and seize every opportunity - but never forget that Galashiels will always be a place they can be proud to call home.