Celebrating Success

Jamie has just completed a week-long work placement with us through The King’s Trust programme, joining our UPCYCLEinc department as a volunteer. In just five days, he has reminded us exactly why upcycling matters—and it’s about far more than furniture.

A Challenge Embraced

From the moment he arrived, Jamie took on the challenge of choosing his own item to upcycle—a task he embraced from start to finish. Working through every stage, from initial design and hands-on practical work right through to the final finish, he created his very first piece.

For someone who had never attempted anything like this before, the transformation was remarkable. And we’re not just talking about the item he restored.

Skills Built, Confidence Gained

Across the week, Jamie developed a wide range of skills. He worked confidently alongside the team, enjoyed meeting new people, and showed real initiative in using his creative flair. Perhaps most importantly, he grew comfortable working independently and making his own decisions—something that can feel daunting at first, but which he took completely in his stride.

It has been a genuine privilege to watch his confidence grow with every sanded edge and every brushstroke.

Working on his design, Jamie, took great pride in his item while learning hands-on skills with a variety of tools in our UPCYCLEinc workshop

What’s Next for Jamie?

Jamie has learned a great deal during his placement and is already hoping to return to Instant Neighbour for further hands-on experience. We couldn’t be more delighted at the prospect.

More Than Just Furniture

Jamie’s journey is a perfect example of what UPCYCLEinc is all about. By retraining our mindset and rethinking our relationship with the things we surround ourselves with—and the things we buy—we can create continued value in objects that might otherwise be discarded.

That value is often mirrored in the individual. For Jamie, this process became a form of self-discovery, offering a renewed sense of purpose and confidence.

Upcycling, after all, isn’t just about transforming furniture—it’s about transforming people too.

Thank you so much, Jamie.

With thanks to our supporters

This placement was made possible thanks to the generous support of:

• Aberdeen International Airport
• Aberdeen City Council
• ABZ Propeller Fund
• Aberdeen Foyer
• The King’s Trust

Inspired by Jamie’s story? Find out more about volunteering or upcycling with Instant Neighbour.