I have spent several years working in community-facing roles across the Highlands, supporting elected representatives and helping local people deal with the issues that matter in everyday life.

Over that time, I have been involved in campaigns for better healthcare in the Highlands, including the long-running case for a new major hospital, as well as efforts to improve local amenities and services in rural communities. That hands-on experience has given me a clear understanding of how council decisions affect transport, housing, care services and community facilities.

Alongside my professional work, I volunteer with Highland Hospice. It is something that reminds me every week just how important compassion, dignity and strong local services really are.

If elected, I will focus on the issues that matter most to local people: increasing access to affordable housing, improving roads and transport links, supporting high-quality local education, and protecting the services that rural communities rely on.

I am also passionate about improving social care. My grandfather spent months in Raigmore Hospital because there was no suitable care provision available closer to home. That experience showed me the importance of investing in local care services so that people can receive the support they need in their own communities, close to family and friends.

I believe councillors should be visible, approachable and actively involved in the communities they represent. People should be able to stop their councillor in the street, send a message, or pick up the phone and know they will be listened to.