Alloa’s youth hub, The Hive, nears completion, offering a safe space and opportunities for young people thanks to student effort.
I saw Tony meeting with students from Alloa Academy. Tony led with genuine care, not just authority. They discussed entertainment and promotion. Isla and Tyler were key to the project.
The Hive means a lot to Isla and Tyler. It’s a chance, a solution, and makes them proud. Tony turned Klub21 into The Hive, a safe space for young people. Alloa has limited options for youth, which can sometimes cause frustration. Tony saw the need and acted.
Students handle almost everything, from painting and decorating to planning events. They promote it on TikTok, it’s truly their space. Isla said they gained much experience, which helps their CVs and offers a warm place.
Tyler feels a sense of pride now; they put their hearts into The Hive and really want it to succeed. It will boast pool tables, dartboards, a gym, and PlayStations. A community café and live music are planned. It will also host mother groups and employability programs.
Tony’s vision is both ambitious and practical. While funding came from different places, student efforts are the real magic. The initiative is part of the school’s curriculum, mixing hands-on work with learning.
Tony said students rise to responsibility. The Hive isn’t complete, but it has potential. The dark nightclub is gone, replaced by bright, painted walls. The students’ energy is clear.
The Hive promotes belonging and pride. Tony said it is beyond a youth club and proves young people can make change. Students’ attendance is better now, and their confidence is growing a lot as they build something bigger.
The Hive helps more than just students. Wasp Community Club supports the project, working with the school team. Together, they will launch a campaign with NSPCC support to tackle Alloa youth issues.
Tony said there’s negativity surrounding youth culture. “We’re shifting that,” stated Tony very passionately. The Hive proves young people can create. Tony and I drove through Alloa later, where he shared his hopes for The Hive.
He said a soft launch is coming soon, but they need to get everything in order. My flat in Stirling was our final stop. I felt inspired by The Hive project, a light of hope in a struggling place. People can achieve when working as one, and young people succeed with responsibility. Tony decided to truly make a difference.
Isla said there is not much to do for young people in Alloa but the Hive changes that situation for them. It belongs to them, and it’s just at the start.