It has often been seen as a baking and jam-making organisation for women of a certain vintage.
But an Angus teenager with a love of piercings and post-apocalyptic TV shows is challenging the traditional stereotypes of life as a member of the Scottish Women’s Rural Institute.
Johanna Watson, 17, is now the vice-president of Westmuir SWRI where most of the members are in their 60s and 70s, with one aged 93.
“I am 17, love my phone, piercings, post-apocalyptic TV shows and cats,” she said.
“A lot of people are surprised that someone of my age enjoys going to the ‘rural’ but I tell them it isn’t all about sponge cakes and jam.
“I initially joined because I am an avid knitter and knew some of the ladies who attend but quickly found out that it offered so much more than just another club.
“It is a fantastic, inclusive organisation that not only tries to preserve traditional skills and heritage but gives members the chance to share and learn in a very friendly environment.
“We meet every month and have competitions, very interesting guest speakers and time for a cup of tea and a laugh.”
Johanna said she has learned a lot from various demonstrations including “ribbon weaving, sugar craft and colour analysis”.
The teenager said being a member has encouraged her to learn new skills and she recently took a floristry class at college.
“There are also lots of activities to take part in,” she said.
“I am on the quiz team and for sportier members there are a number of events like curling and bowling.
“We also have a Christmas night out and join with the Airlie Institute for a summer trip.
“In March the Federation Show is held in Forfar where all the Angus institutes compete in classes in the hope of bringing home a trophy or two.
“I’m busy knitting for the show at the moment and trying to perfect my custard creams.
“I have made friends with so many women of different ages, backgrounds and hobbies.
“But what we all have in common is an interest in a traditional but very relevant organisation where all women, even a very modern teenager, are welcome.”
She is hoping to study fashion make up and then go on to a degree in media and special effects make up.
Westmuir SWRI president Evelyn Thomson said Johanna has become a valued member and was showing that the organisation isn’t just for older people.
She is hoping it can also encourage younger members to follow in Johanna’s footsteps and get involved.
She said: “The life expectancy of SWRI groups relies on getting younger people to join the ranks.
“Johanna is proof that we’ve got a lot to offer the younger generation and she’s become a good friend to all members.”
Catherine Blair, a farmer’s wife and member of the suffragette movement, founded the first Scottish branch of the Womens’ Rural Institute in the East Lothian village of Longniddry.
Inspired by the Women’s Institute formed in Canada in 1897, she set out to improve the lives of those in her own community and her motto, “If you know a good thing pass it on,” is still in use today.
Mothers, daughters, neighbours and friends took the message to their hearts, joining in their droves, and soon the network spread across the country.
The SWI today stretches from Shetland to the Borders, and the Western Isles to the East Neuk of Fife.
