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Sophie-Ann receives certificate of valued contribution from UHI North Highland


By Alan Hendry

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Robbie Rowantree, chairman of the UHI North Highland board of management, presenting the certificate to Sophie-Ann Bain.
Robbie Rowantree, chairman of the UHI North Highland board of management, presenting the certificate to Sophie-Ann Bain.

Sophie-Ann Bain has been praised for acting as a voice for students and their welfare after receiving a certificate of valued contribution from UHI North Highland in Thurso.

The presentation was made by the chairman of the board of management, Robbie Rowantree.

Sophie-Ann, a hairdressing student, was the Highlands and Islands Student Association (HISA) depute officer at UHI North Highland for the past year, with her role recently coming to an end.

She was elected by her fellow students with the aim of enhancing the student experience, running events throughout the year and raising funds for local charities.

“Through working with HISA, I have grown in confidence and have enjoyed engaging with fellow students," she said. "Being a part of the board of management was a brilliant experience, and it was great to represent the student voice.

"I was given the chance to chair a meeting, which is something I never thought I would do, and would like to thank the board for the opportunity and their support.”

Mr Rowantree said: “I was delighted to be able to present the valued contribution certificate to Sophie-Ann. She has been an asset to the board of management and is a loud, clear voice for the students and their welfare.

"Sophie-Ann has worked very hard to raise awareness of mental health issues, which have been brought into focus by the difficult years of the Covid pandemic, in addition to her work on the committees and as the HISA representative.

"I would like to encourage as many students as possible to consider following Sophie-Ann's example. We wish her the very best for a bright future.”

Sophie-Ann (left) and principal Debbie Murray presenting the cheque to Chris Mackenzie of Caithness Mental Health Support Group.
Sophie-Ann (left) and principal Debbie Murray presenting the cheque to Chris Mackenzie of Caithness Mental Health Support Group.

Sophie-Ann recently ran a prize draw for staff and students to raise money for Caithness Mental Health Support Group, whose centres at Stepping Stones (Thurso) and The Haven (Wick) are safe places for people affected by mental health issues.

She said: “I am delighted to have raised £280 for Caithness Mental Health Support Group. This money will help to buy equipment and improve all users’ experience at the centres.”

Caithness Mental Health Support Group's centre manager Chris Mackenzie said: “Thank you to Sophie-Ann and the kind donations from staff and students at UHI North Highland. The money helps our group run our two centres which are open every day of the year."


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