Quiet Heroes photography exhibition
Join us for a celebration of unsung heroes who make a big impact in the community at this photography exhibition by award-winning photographer Chris McCluskie.
Date & time: Sunday 31 August 2025, 1–3pm
Location: granton:hub, Madelvic House, Granton Park Avenue, Edinburgh
About the exhibition
Quiet Heroes shines a light on the everyday people who make a difference in our community, often without recognition. Through striking portraits and personal stories, the exhibition celebrates these individuals and invites us all to reflect on the hidden contributions that keep a community strong.
Meet our Quiet Heroes
This exhibition is dedicated to all the quiet heroes whose kindness, effort and care make our communities stronger every day, without asking for anything in return.
LIFT: a support and advocacy service
1. Danielle Leadbetter
There is it enough words to describe what Danielle does for the Community; she is a young mum to 3 girls who are her life. Her commitment to the centre users is incredible. She will take on any challenge they are facing and not give in until she feels it’s been resolved to her high standard. God help anyone who gets in her way. Danielle is a force to be reckoned with but in the best way possible. Her empathy for our centre users is impressive, she gives her all to LIFT@ MMC and the centre users, Danielle is one inspiring young Lady.
LIFT: a support and advocacy service
2. Tyler Bowie
Tyler is one of our volunteers, Tylers passion for change is phenomenal, she is facing her own personal challenges but instead of dwelling on them she is using them to make changes for other women who have experienced the trauma she has. She shows strength, compassion and remarkable resilience, she is a mum to 3 kids who are her world.
Tyler would volunteer every day if she could, there are times when we have to remind her to have some me time, she has shown leadership skills and commitment to LIFT@MMC. She has earned the name Talk, Talk as its never quiet when Tylers around.
Every centre needs a Tyler...
THE SPARTANS FC
3. Karen Anderson
Karen is part of the Extra Time Project funded through SFA from Scottish Government. The Extra Time initiative aims to provide additional out of school opportunities for children from the 6 local primaries in North Edinburgh. Working in partnership with educational partners, Extra Time provides vital respite , social and support for parents and children. We also provide 5 afterschool clubs, 3 parents groups, 5 lunch clubs and 2 support groups for ASN parents and children.
WEST PILTON NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE
4. Ornella Alieva
Working and volunteering in my local community is deeply rewarding. Giving skills and time to local causes strengthens the social bonds and fosters a spirit of unity and cooperation.
It allows me to meet new people, gain valuable skills and experiences. It also promotes civic responsibility, and better understanding of the challenges faced by people in the North West area of​​Edinburgh, creates a supportive environment.
When I started volunteering at West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre, and then at PCA, I’ve met and was inspired by truly wonderful people, who have contributed to this community over many decades.
They’ve set a great example for me to follow. So, when an opportunity came for me to work at West Pilton Neighbourhood Centre, I was very happy, as I work now at the place where people of all ages and abilities come together to learn, connect, and support one another. I believe that working at the community centre helps to make a positive impact in the community. The Centre offering a safe, welcoming space for education, social connection, recreation and support. Working here means being part of something larger: helping to build a stronger, more inclusive community.
For me It's more than just a job - it’s a way of giving back and growing alongside the community I serve.
Beyond Midnight
5. James Riordan
Midnight and Beyond (formerly known as FaceNorth) was established in 2014 and achieved charitable status in July 2022. We are a small charity engaging with young men (aged 14-26).
Our charity is made up of 4 staff, the 2 Co-Founders/Project Managers, James Riordan & Katie Grover alongside Mark Porter our Go Beyond Project Coordinator & our Trainee Youth Worker, Calum Tait.
Working in neighbourhoods of multiple deprivation in North Edinburgh, we recognise the challenges and disadvantages young men face including poverty, unemployment, social distress and social exclusion, all of which have a negative impact on their well-being and prospects for the future. Our programmes empower them to make positive change.
Young men engage with us voluntarily and can access support at any time.
Beyond Midnight
6. Katie Grover
Midnight and Beyond (formerly known as FaceNorth) was established in 2014 and achieved charitable status in July 2022. We are a small charity engaging with young men (aged 14-26).
Our charity is made up of 4 staff, the 2 Co-Founders/Project Managers, James Riordan & Katie Grover alongside Mark Porter our Go Beyond Project Coordinator & our Trainee Youth Worker, Calum Tait.
Working in neighbourhoods of multiple deprivation in North Edinburgh, we recognise the challenges and disadvantages young men face including poverty, unemployment, social distress and social exclusion, all of which have a negative impact on their well-being and prospects for the future. Our programmes empower them to make positive change.
Young men engage with us voluntarily and can access support at any time.
Beyond Midnight
7. Mark Porter
Midnight and Beyond (formerly known as FaceNorth) was established in 2014 and achieved charitable status in July 2022. We are a small charity engaging with young men (aged 14-26).
Our charity is made up of 4 staff, the 2 Co-Founders/Project Managers, James Riordan & Katie Grover alongside Mark Porter our Go Beyond Project Coordinator & our Trainee Youth Worker, Calum Tait.
Working in neighbourhoods of multiple deprivation in North Edinburgh, we recognise the challenges and disadvantages young men face including poverty, unemployment, social distress and social exclusion, all of which have a negative impact on their well-being and prospects for the future. Our programmes empower them to make positive change.
Young men engage with us voluntarily and can access support at any time.
Screen Education Edinburgh
8. Rachel McKinlay
Screen Education Edinburgh (SEE) is dedicated to filmmaking for all, teaching high-quality learning, training, and production programmes that develop screen opportunities for people of all ages across education, community, and talent and skills development, with a proven track record in developing people from working class communities, as well as those living with disabilities and from diverse backgrounds.
Screen Education Edinburgh
9. Eve Law
Screen Education Edinburgh (SEE) is dedicated to filmmaking for all, teaching high-quality learning, training, and production programmes that develop screen opportunities for people of all ages across education, community, and talent and skills development, with a proven track record in developing people from working class communities, as well as those living with disabilities and from diverse backgrounds.
Screen Education Edinburgh
10. Milly Stewart
Screen Education Edinburgh (SEE) is dedicated to filmmaking for all, teaching high-quality learning, training, and production programmes that develop screen opportunities for people of all ages across education, community, and talent and skills development, with a proven track record in developing people from working class communities, as well as those living with disabilities and from diverse backgrounds.
BLAST Boxing CC
11. Kevin Matthews
I’m Kevn Matthews the founder of BLAST Boxing CIC. I founded BLAST on several principles the main reason was to create a space for people to access who may have tough difficulties dealing with mental health and wellbeing. This is the foundation of the work we do. Through my own personal experiences with mental health, I know it can be tough to talk or even engage and boxing has been an aid for me through some of my toughest times.
I set BLAST up with the understanding that not everyone wants to or is able to talk about the challenges they face in life but if we can put on sessions that are structured, welcoming and engaging then that is a way for people to communicate. Using boxing as a method of engagement is how we set out to tackle not only physical health but also mental health. My community is something I have always taken great pride in, my family have strong roots in North Edinburgh and I am very passionate about doing something positive that our community can benefit from.
BLAST, it’s more than just boxing.
H.O.P.E. Club — Helping Older People Excel
12. Mary Faulkner
The H.O.P.E. Club was started in 2019 by Fiona & Frances. We have had lots of members over the years. Some now deceased. The Content Group was started by Betty McVay in 1991. It was always well attended club over the years.
H.O.P.E. and Content groups started doing joint activities, so when Betty died in January 2025, it made sense to amalgamate to keep Betty’s club. So, both clubs became H.O.P.E. club, running on Wednesdays and Fridays. We have lots of activities: Raffles, Bingo, Entertainers, Quizzes we had a Tombola stall at the North West Festival, which was a big success.
We’ve made £300.00 plus, that which will enable us to do things with the group. At the moment we have 12 members, and we are recruiting for new members.
The club has breakfast and lunch provided for £3.00 per day.
H.O.P.E. Club — Helping Older People Excel
13. Sophie Andreas
The H.O.P.E. Club was started in 2019 by Fiona & Frances. We have had lots of members over the years. Some now deceased. The Content Group was started by Betty McVay in 1991. It was always well attended club over the years.
H.O.P.E. and Content groups started doing joint activities, so when Betty died in January 2025, it made sense to amalgamate to keep Betty’s club. So, both clubs became H.O.P.E. club, running on Wednesdays and Fridays. We have lots of activities: Raffles, Bingo, Entertainers, Quizzes we had a Tombola stall at the North West Festival, which was a big success.
We’ve made £300.00 plus, that which will enable us to do things with the group. At the moment we have 12 members, and we are recruiting for new members.
The club has breakfast and lunch provided for £3.00 per day.
H.O.P.E. Club — Helping Older People Excel
14. Frances Jury
The H.O.P.E. Club was started in 2019 by Fiona & Frances. We have had lots of members over the years. Some now deceased. The Content Group was started by Betty McVay in 1991. It was always well attended club over the years.
H.O.P.E. and Content groups started doing joint activities, so when Betty died in January 2025, it made sense to amalgamate to keep Betty’s club. So, both clubs became H.O.P.E. club, running on Wednesdays and Fridays. We have lots of activities: Raffles, Bingo, Entertainers, Quizzes we had a Tombola stall at the North West Festival, which was a big success.
We’ve made £300.00 plus, that which will enable us to do things with the group. At the moment we have 12 members, and we are recruiting for new members.
The club has breakfast and lunch provided for £3.00 per day.
Royston Wardieburn Community Centre
15. Billy Fitzpatrick
Royston Wardieburn Community Centre is a vital gathering place in north Edinburgh, offering everything from youth clubs and fitness classes to cultural events and local support services. It provides a safe, welcoming space where people of all ages can connect, learn, and take part in activities that strengthen community ties. For many, it’s not just a centre but a hub of belonging and opportunity.
Royston Wardieburn Community Centre
16. Mhairi Curren
Royston Wardieburn Community Centre is a vital gathering place in north Edinburgh, offering everything from youth clubs and fitness classes to cultural events and local support services. It provides a safe, welcoming space where people of all ages can connect, learn, and take part in activities that strengthen community ties. For many, it’s not just a centre but a hub of belonging and opportunity.
Royston Wardieburn Community Centre
17. Cathy Umobi
Royston Wardieburn Community Centre is a vital gathering place in north Edinburgh, offering everything from youth clubs and fitness classes to cultural events and local support services. It provides a safe, welcoming space where people of all ages can connect, learn, and take part in activities that strengthen community ties. For many, it’s not just a centre but a hub of belonging and opportunity.
Forth Children's Theatre
18. Jane Sutherland
Based here at Madelvic House, Forth Children’s Theatre has been nurturing young talent in Edinburgh for decades, giving children and teenagers the chance to build confidence, learn new skills, and perform on stage. It’s a place where creativity and teamwork thrive, with many alumni going on to careers in the arts and beyond. For the community, it represents both opportunity and pride in the achievements of its young people.
Local Artist
19. Juliet Henderson
With a deep connection to Granton, and having exhibited here at granton:hub earlier this year, Juliet Henderson is a local artist who produces, amongst other things, oil paintings of Granton, its harbour, seascapes, and community, which mean a lot to her.
Granton Community Gardeners
20. Mary Mbae
Granton Community Gardeners is a local grassroots charity, which began in 2010 when a group of neighbours dug up a street corner on Wardieburn Road to create a Community Garden. Gradually neighbours from other streets were inspired to do the same. The group also started sharing meals -made from the food grown. In 2023 the charity completed a community asset transfer for their largest garden at 10 Wardieburn Road. They now host over 60 free community meals/year, open to all, including lunch at the garden every Wednesday. They also host large community celebrations such as the annual Burns Night Community Ceilidh, and Harvest Festival at the garden. Examples of successful initiatives from local members, have included starting a community bakery (now in its 6th year, and employing 5local people part time), a chicken cooperative (a dozen local families/households own and care for a flock of egg laying hens), and a free shop (distributing donated clothes, toys, and household items within the community).
Mary and Silas are members who have shaped and energised Granton Community Gardeners over many years, with their vision for community, wide ranging practical skills, and always impressive hard work and energy. They are an inspiration to us all!
Granton Community Gardeners
21. Silas Minoti
Granton Community Gardeners is a local grassroots charity, which began in 2010 when a group of neighbours dug up a street corner on Wardieburn Road to create a Community Garden. Gradually neighbours from other streets were inspired to do the same. The group also started sharing meals -made from the food grown. In 2023 the charity completed a community asset transfer for their largest garden at 10 Wardieburn Road. They now host over 60 free community meals/year, open to all, including lunch at the garden every Wednesday. They also host large community celebrations such as the annual Burns Night Community Ceilidh, and Harvest Festival at the garden. Examples of successful initiatives from local members, have included starting a community bakery (now in its 6th year, and employing 5local people part time), a chicken cooperative (a dozen local families/households own and care for a flock of egg laying hens), and a free shop (distributing donated clothes, toys, and household items within the community).
Mary and Silas are members who have shaped and energised Granton Community Gardeners over many years, with their vision for community, wide ranging practical skills, and always impressive hard work and energy. They are an inspiration to us all!
Pilton Community Health Project
22. Nathalie Nogues
Nathalie Nogues has been living in North Edinburgh since 2000 and is nominated as a Quiet Hero by
Pilton Community Health Project. Nathalie has a key role in our Chat Café, Women’s outdoor Cook
Club and memorable family occasions like the North Edinburgh Community Ceilidh - not many people can prepare a Burns Supper for 250 people!
“I never would have thought that volunteering to do some gardening activities at my children’s playgroup would have led me to running a community café or that getting help with a housing issue from the Black Community Development Project would inspire me to study Community Education.”
Nathalie comes from a culture where family and community are very important, she believes that home is a place where families come together, to share knowledge and to support each other.
“I feel I am at home in North Edinburgh”
Nathalie is a value member of our team. We are Scotland’s oldest community health project and have been part of the community in North Edinburgh since 1984. Quiet Heros like Nathalie are absolute gems, always supporting others to take steps to a healthier, happier life.
Empty Kitchens Full Hearts
23. Regina Latonda
Empty Kitchens Full Hearts aims to alleviate poverty in Edinburgh. We serve members of our community who are living in poverty with healthy meals, wellbeing support, and referrals to other services. All of our meals are made from surplus food and provided free of charge.
Regina has been an incredibly active member of our volunteer body for over five years now and amongst many other things is the loving heart at the centre of our Friday community meal.
​
Hello everyone!
My name is Regina Latonda, I'm 65 years old and I'm from Madrid (Spain). I arrived in beautiful Edinburgh in June 2012. I worked in a care home for 6 years. Got married to a lovely man from Edinburgh 9 years ago and since then I gave up work and started volunteering.
This makes me the happiest person in the world!
I do:
- BOOKBUG in libraries, Early Years and Community Festivals.
- E. MAGINNIS COURT, with elderly people games, singing, dancing, parties...etc!
- BETHANY TRUST with the homeless or women at risk!
- EDAI, Edinburgh Direct Aid International, helping local NGO's and people in need or countries at war like Gaza, Ukraine, and Syrian refugees!
(These three above for 9 years now)
- EKFH, Empty Kitchens full hearts, I go twice a week helping in whatever is necessary to be done. KP, cleaning, for the last 5 years.
I absolutely love all of them! Goodbye and thank you for reading it from the bottom of my heart!