What Kate Humble learned about life in Shetland

Known for her love of rural life, wildlife and communities, Kate travelled across the islands to meet the people creating opportunities, building successful businesses and helping their communities thrive. Along the way, she discovered a remarkable spirit of enterprise, creativity and collaboration that is helping shape Shetland's future.

"I have visited Shetland many times because of its incredible natural beauty and spectacular wildlife. But equally impressive are the people who call Shetland home," says Kate.

"There is an exceptional can-do attitude and a surprising range of innovative enterprises all over the islands. It was a privilege to meet so many inspiring people and learn more about the businesses, projects and communities they have built."

From community-owned assets and creative businesses to locally led development projects, the four films in this series showcase how Shetlanders are finding innovative ways to create opportunities and invest in future generations.

In Northmavine, Kate meets the people behind Polycrub, a business developed in Shetland to withstand the islands' challenging growing conditions. What began as a local solution has grown into an internationally recognised product, with profits reinvested through the Northmavine Community Development Company to support jobs, infrastructure and community projects.

The film explores how community enterprise can help sustain rural communities while creating opportunities close to home.

In Hoswick, Kate discovers a thriving creative community where designers, makers and craftspeople are building successful businesses inspired by Shetland's heritage and landscape.

She visits the studios of textile and knitwear designers Nielanell and Shetland Woollen Co., and spends time with jewellery designer Karlin Anderson, whose work is inspired by the islands' landscapes and natural environment.

Together, their stories show how creativity, craftsmanship and entrepreneurship are helping Shetland businesses reach customers around the world while remaining firmly rooted in the islands.

In Bigton, Kate finds a small community with a big heart.

She meets Gus Dow, a school janitor turned weekend baker whose passion project has become a much-loved local institution, and Sarah and Alex Green, who are creating a new coffee venture after moving to Shetland with their family.

At the centre of the story is Hymhus, a former kirk transformed into a thriving community hub. Home to events, exhibitions, music, baking and new business ventures, it has become a place where people come together, share ideas and create opportunities.

As Kate discovers, Bigton is proof that when people support one another and work together, big things can happen.

In North Yell, Kate explores how community-led development is helping create opportunities for future generations.

She meets Alice Jamieson of the North Yell Development Council, which has helped drive local investment through initiatives including a community-owned wind farm. Income generated from the project is reinvested locally, supporting housing, infrastructure, businesses and opportunities for young people.

Kate also visits Shona Skinner at the Shetland Gallery and is inspired by the artists who continue to draw inspiration from the islands' dramatic landscapes and seascapes.

While each film tells a different story, they share a common theme: people taking ownership of their future and working together to create opportunities where they live.

"What struck me most was the determination of people not just to live in these communities, but to help them thrive," says Kate.

"Shetland is spectacular, but it is also a real and thriving community, and that is mightily impressive."

We hope you enjoy following Kate's journey across Shetland and discovering some of the people, projects and ideas helping shape the islands today.

Watch the films above and discover more about living, working and building a future in Shetland.

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