Staff Team
Gaener Rodger
CHIEF OFFICER (she/her)
Gaener has worked in a variety of roles across the academic, public and third sector. She brings to the role nearly 9 years of experience of working and volunteering with young people. Gaener has worked with Brook Scotland and Wave Highland (of Waverley Care) and continues to support young people and adults through volunteering with Girlguiding Inverness-shire. Between August 2018 and July 2020, Gaener held the post of volunteer Chair at of the Highlands Children’s Forum, which was transformed into Inspiring Young Voices thereafter. She is passionate about and committed to empowering children and young people to have their voices heard in a way that impacts the issues that matter to them and influences policy and practice. Gaener is delighted to be rejoined the organisation as its Chief Officer.
Kirsteen Wood
YOUTH PARTICIPATION WORKER (she/her)
Kirsteen joined in March 2024 with previous roles in advocacy, youth work and pupil support assistant. She first started in the Voluntary Sector as a Young Carers Worker in 2007 and hasn’t looked back. She holds a HNC in Social Care, PDA in Youth Work and SVQ 3 Health and Social Care. She has a kind and caring nature and relationship based practice is one of her core values. Her passions outside of work are cycling, baking, training at the gym and her dog Harris a 6 year old Labradoodle. In June 2024 she will be taking part in the Highland Cross and this year hopes for a personal best time.
Sarah Cardno
COMMUNICATIONS AND BUISNESS SUPPORT OFFICER (she/her)
Sarah helps us share our work as far as we can reach. Working within the third sector for the last 10 years, Sarah comes to us with a strong background in administration and communications, having worked for both local and national charities across the Highlands. She is thrilled to be sharing the stories of our passionate young people and help ensure their voices are heard.
