Who Are We?

Wild Skies Shetland is an Unst-based charity and social enterprise.

Our Story

From shimmering auroras to dramatic winter storms, from the long summer ‘simmer dim’ to crystal-clear dark skies, we are dedicated to celebrating the ever-changing sky in all its glory, throughout the seasons. We invite people to look up, slow down, and experience the wonder above them.

The idea was born at a kitchen table in Unst, Britain’s most northerly island, in 2017. What began as a simple idea – to share the beauty of our skies with others – has grown into a registered charity with seven Trustees and two part-time workers.

Our team is rooted in the community and inspired by the landscape we call home. Together, we work to benefit both the people of Unst and the visitors who travel here, enhancing their enjoyment and understanding of the island’s remarkable skies.

We organise a wide range of sky-related events and personalised tours designed to connect people with the natural world above them. Each experience is shaped by creativity and local knowledge.

Whether you are witnessing the northern lights for the first time or discovering the quiet beauty of a summer twilight, we help you experience the sky in meaningful and memorable ways.

We showcase Unst’s skies through:

  • Storytelling and folklore
  • Music and creative arts
  • Local history and heritage
  • Astronomy and science
  • Guided walks
  • And immersive experiences
A tall, ancient standing stone leans prominently in a grassy field under a brilliant night sky filled with circular star trails centred around the North Star.

Meet the team

Jane Macaulay

Chair
Jane lives in Unst. She had the original idea for Wild Skies Shetland when on holiday in Iceland.

Josie Macmillan

Treasurer
Josie lives in Unst. She likes walking.
Team Member Fabien Kuntz

Fabien Kuntz

Trustee
Fabien lives in Unst and is a space enthusiast with over 20 years’ experience as a professional meteorite hunter.

Angela Fraser

Secretary
Angela is a retired science and maths teacher from Baltasound Junior High. She’s also a talented musician and knitter.

Chris McGinlay

Trustee
Chris is a knowledgeable amateur astronomer and teaches physics at the Anderson High School in Lerwick.

Helen Goddard

Trustee
Helen lives in Wales, having once been a community development officer in Unst. She works in heritage management.
Team Member Sharyn Emslie

Sharyn Emslie

Development Officer
Sharyn has worked in heritage interpretation for over 30 years. She joined the team in 2025 to facilitate events, enhance visitor experiences, increase the charity’s profile and raise funds.

Melanie Mouat

TRUSTEE
Melanie lives in Unst and brings experience in marketing and creative business helping to share our vision and inspire connection with Shetland’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.