Local charity leader recognised with SCVO award nomination for empowering young people through music.
A dedicated project leader from local Edinburgh and East Lothian charity A.R.Ts Afternoon has earned recognition for his commitment to empowering young people through music and community support. Rohan Seilman, who has been a driving force behind the organisation for nearly 30 years, has been named a finalist for the 2025 Employee of the Year and People’s Choice Awards at the upcoming Scottish Charity Awards in Glasgow this June.
A.R.Ts Afternoon, through their initiative Pulse of the Place, have provided a unique blend of group Samba drumming and community support to young individuals, particularly those from high SIMD (Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation) areas, free of charge.
Under Rohan’s leadership, and in partnership with Musical Director Sarah Kelly, the charity has become a beacon of hope and creativity, offering arts-based education and performance opportunities, like taking part in Scotland’s very first Tartan Day Parade, which took place in Edinburgh at the weekend, while fostering a sense of acceptance and belonging among participants.
Despite facing significant personal health challenges, Rohan's passion for music and commitment to equality have never wavered. His dedication has transformed the lives of countless young people, creating positive peer collaborations, opportunities for skill development and enriching their mental well-being through the power of music.
As Rohan continues at the helm of A.R.Ts Afternoon, he remains a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative potential of music-focused youth initiatives. Being selected as a finalist for this year’s awards not only celebrates his achievements but also highlights the importance of access to the arts and arts-based education for all young people.
The SCVO's awards ceremony will honour the outstanding contributions of organisations and individuals, like Rohan, within the voluntary sector, showcasing their vital role in enhancing personal and community life. The public are invited to participate in the People’s Choice vote, which is open online until Tuesday, 20th May at 5 p.m., allowing you to support your favourite finalist across all categories.
Anna Fowlie, Chief Executive of the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations (SCVO), praised this year’s nominees, stating, “This year's shortlisting was as difficult as ever with the phenomenal work of the voluntary sector really demonstrated in our entries. Our finalists represent the very best of Scottish society, making life-changing impacts every single day in their communities.”
For more information or to vote in the People's Choice awards, visit the SCVO website www.scvo.scot/scottish-charity-awards. Don’t miss the chance to celebrate people like Rohan, and the organisations that make such a big difference in our communities!