Muminah is an inspiration

A POET, journalist, content creator and public speaker from Dumfries has been named one of Scotland’s most inspiring young people.

Muminah Koleoso, 23, was honoured at the 2025 Young Scot Awards for her powerful impact on Scotland’s cultural and creative scene.

She uses her talents to explore themes of identity, heritage and lived experience, particularly through the lens of Black Muslim women.

Recognised nationally as a standout cultural contributor, Muminah’s work has appeared in publications such as Black Ballad, Vericane, and Bookstr, and she has performed her poetry at literary festivals across Scotland, including the Edinburgh International Book Festival and Push the Boat Out. She also hosts a monthly open mic on Instagram Live, spotlighting Muslim and BPOC women in the creative arts.

Beyond the page and stage, Muminah is an active youth advocate. She’s a member of the Young Women Lead programme and the My Life My Say Squad, promoting political participation among under-represented groups.

She said: “Being recognised at the Young Scot Awards is such an incredible honour. My creativity is deeply personal - it’s about telling stories that are often overlooked and creating spaces where people like me can feel seen and heard.

“Through poetry, journalism and content, I aim to continue sparking conversations, sharing thought-provoking stories, and building a community where we celebrate our strengths and embrace our differences. This award motivates me to keep using my voice to advocate, inspire and drive meaningful change for a more inclusive and fair society - in Scotland and the rest of the world.”

Congratulating her, Kirsten Urquhart, CEO of Young Scot, added: “These awards highlight the extraordinary impact young people have across Scotland every day.

“Muminah’s story is proof that when supported and celebrated, young people become powerful drivers of change.”