The Great Island Migration: What Will It Take to Keep Young People Here?

How do we change the attitude of young people living here?

The mission to transform the Isle of Wight mentality.

Ok, “transform” might sound bold. How about radically reshape?

This week, I read an article by Ian Boyd about how the demographic of the Island is changing. Young people are leaving in search of better prospects, just as holidaymakers are choosing new destinations over the Isle. Why? Because they’re disillusioned.

Young people are fed up. They’re frustrated with the lack of opportunities, rising costs, and limited social events. They’re tired of feeling stifled.

Now, I’m not here to be negative. There’s always, always, a solution. But what do we, as people who love this Island, how can we change things? If we want our Island to thrive, we need to invest in our younger generation more than we probably realise. If I could be so bold, I’d like to forward some suggestions.

Change Your Attitude

Ever tried talking to a young person as if they’re an adult? It’s amazing what happens. They may come off defensive at first (Who could blame them), but often, with a little patience, they’ll open up. Respect works wonders, and in showing humility, we build trust. If we can collectively offer this kind of respect, we open doors for real conversations and bridge divides. I know I could be better about this myself. We need to stop judging and start listening. We were all young once after all. Who of us all really had it all together at the age of 17?

When I attended Platform One (Andy Booth & Jason Paine hats off to you both) as a teenager, it was a revelation. For the first time, I was treated like an adult, and it changed me. Imagine if we all offered young people that same respect. A small change in our attitude could go a long way. And it’s free.

How Can We Make the Island More Accessible?

One of the biggest complaints I hear from young people is about the cost of travel. The high ferry fares feel like a barrier to the “real world” beyond the Island. But if travel were more affordable, ferries might instead feel like a gateway to adventure.

Buses are another challenge. While there have been improvements, what if we could do more to make travel affordable? I don’t know what the perfect solution looks like, but if we can lower costs, it could make a big difference.

The other angle is changing the way we see the water that divides us. Rather than a curse, it’s truly a blessing. Because of that little stretch of water we have a different type of existence here. Let’s start to treasure that, and encourage young people to do the same. I know, I know, it’s so easy to complain about the prices. But we can’t change those by moaning. We can change our attitude, we are completely in control of that.

Any ideas on how to solve this issue, are welcome! I don’t pretend to have all the answers.

Opportunity Exists, but It Needs Visibility

There’s a persistent belief among young people that there are no job opportunities on the Island. But the truth is, opportunities do exist. They just might be harder to find.

Connected Wight is setting a new standard by showcasing the unique strengths of the Island, shining a spotlight on the incredible talent and innovation within our local business communities.

And what about starting a business?

I’ve started three myself, including one successful exit and two profitable ventures I still run today. They’re small, intentionally flexible, and they’ve thrived. So, here’s what I’ve learned about building a business here on the Isle of Wight: (I’ll be quick)

1. Overdeliver – Always give more than what you’ve promised. Deliver it faster if possible, and delight your customers.
2. Be Honest – Don’t cut corners or try to deceive anyone. The Island is small, and trust is key.
3. Kindness is Strategy – Kindness is the best business strategy. Help others without expecting anything in return. People notice integrity.

If we show young people that running a business here, isn’t just about selling some fruit down the local corner shop, but that here on the Island we are at the heart of an innovative epicentre. Don’t believe me? Take a look at AJ WELLS AND SON LTD (Charnwood), leading the way with the world’s first Automatic air flow stove, making it one of the cleanest in the world. Take a look at Tee-Mill who are creating eco friendly fashion in an innovative way.

Take a look at Ascensos, a customer service powerhouse that’s not just supporting local businesses but handling customer engagement for top global brands. Consider the sustainable innovations at Isle of Wight Tomatoes | B Corp™ , literally creating new flavours and products that feed the nation. And we can’t forget about the Mermaid ~ Isle of Wight Distillery , where local craft meets global acclaim with its eco-conscious Mermaid Gin. These businesses showcase that the Isle of Wight isn’t just a picturesque place to live; it’s a breeding ground for forward-thinking industries, where innovation and environmental stewardship go hand in hand.

If we continue to celebrate and support these enterprises, young people will see that the Island isn’t just a starting point but a place to grow careers that are both meaningful and impactful. Let’s make sure they know this is where the future of business can thrive, right here at home.

Building a Legacy for the Next Generation

At Isle of Wight Stock, we’re on a mission to show young people the potential for building a life and career here on the Island. Alongside our friends mentioned, we’ll soon offer free resources like eBooks on starting and running an Isle of Wight business, answering the questions that matter most. Further tools on how to use social media as an Island business, and market yourself online.

I seriously believe in being the change you want to see, and that starts now!

Let’s show the next generation the possibilities here, one act of generosity at a time. We can teach them that being an Islander means taking pride in where you live, caring for others, and creating innovative opportunity.

Together, let’s be the change we want to see on the Island.

#BratIsland

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