New project co-ordinator at food & drink ambassador programme

The Scottish Food & Drink Ambassadors programme is embarking on a new chapter with the appointment of Emma Koubayssi as Project Co-ordinator.

Emma will play an instrumental and collaborative role in the delivery and development of the Ambassadors programme, working closely with partners, employers, educators and individuals to grow its reach and impact across the sector.

A self-employed consultant and neurodiversity coach, Emma’s background is in designing and leading purpose-driven projects. Her work has often focused on education and wellbeing, helping young people broaden their aspirations and feel more connected to their potential.

Prior to joining the Scottish Food & Drink Ambassadors programme, Emma was part of the incubator team at Farmstrong Scotland, supporting with project co-ordination. She was Head of Social Impact at one of Europe’s most respected coaching schools and also oversaw the content development for the largest TED Talk event in the world, held in Sydney. She also currently leads SAOS’s flagship training programme Growing Tomorrow’s Leaders, for experienced managers across the land-based sector.

Tribute

The previous Project Co-ordinator Mary Holland had been preparing to retire from her role and Emma was fortunate to meet her and begin a handover process before Mary’s sudden and untimely death in April. 

Moira Stalker, Skills Manager at Food and Drink Federation Scotland and member of the Scotland Food & Drink Partnership, said: “Mary had completely reinvigorated the Ambassadors project over the past couple of years and made it the success it is. 

“Her death was such a shock to us all and we will miss the energy and enthusiasm she brought to her work.

“Mary’s impact was profound, and we’re grateful that Emma brings a shared commitment to nurturing talent – and her understanding of the different ways people absorb messages places her in a strong position to continue driving the programme forward.”

Inspirational force

The Scottish Food & Drink Ambassadors initiative, relaunched in early 2023, has rapidly become an inspirational force in encouraging young people to explore the diverse and exciting career pathways within Scotland's flourishing food and drink sector.

By connecting students with professionals working across the industry, the programme effectively illuminates the vast career landscape available.

The past two years have witnessed remarkable growth for the Ambassadors programme. Currently, 98 enthusiastic Ambassadors representing 33 employers nationwide are actively engaging with the next generation.

Their commitment has translated into over 560 hours of impactful activities, reaching an impressive 17,914 participants across 86 schools and 10 community groups. This vital engagement has generated a substantial social value estimated at over £2million.

The Scottish Food & Drink Ambassadors programme continues to invite industry professionals to become Ambassadors and play a crucial role in inspiring the future workforce.

The straightforward sign-up process begins with registration as a STEM Ambassador at www.stem.org.uk/register, followed by adding the Scottish Food and Drink Ambassadors Scheme to their profile. More information on how to participate can be found at https://bit.ly/FnDAmb.