The search is on for Scotland’s young food and drink stars as industry award returns

Scotland’s budding food and drink stars are being encouraged to enter NFU Mutual’s ‘Inspirational Young Person Award’ – with nominations now open.

The award, launched by the commercial insurer in partnership with industry leadership body Scotland Food & Drink, is now entering its sixth year and aims to uncover and reward talented 16 to 26-year-olds who own, work or study in the food and drink industry.

Entries and nominations have opened for the award, which not only highlights the innovation that young people bring to Scotland’s food and drink businesses, but also the important contribution they make to the sector. First, second and third-place winners will be awarded cash prizes of £500, £300 and £200 respectively, and will be announced this September.

Martin Malone, NFU Mutual Regional Manager for Scotland, said: “The importance of young people to Scotland’s food and drink sector cannot be overstated. The entries and winners over the past five years illustrates just how wide a contribution they make and how valuable they are to business success.

“As with many industries in the current climate, the food and drink sector has faced some very challenging times, and this year’s judging will consider how young people have responded to that. We love shining a light on the wealth of talent we have here in Scotland, and the Inspirational Young Person Award is the perfect opportunity to do that.”

Iain Baxter, Chief Executive at Scotland Food & Drink, said: "I'm excited for my first stint on the judging panel, keen to unearth the diverse talent, both culinary and business-oriented, within the younger generation of our industry.

“Scotland boasts a proud reputation globally for its food, drink, and hospitality. It's imperative that we support the future of our sector, with initiatives like this offering invaluable recognition and encouragement to young individuals making strides in Scottish food and drink."

Last year, Sophie Mackenzie from West Lothian claimed top spot following her outstanding dedication to service, standards and excellent feedback from patrons at The Watchman Hotel in Gullane, East Lothian.

The 19-year-old took on the role of general assistant upon the hotel’s opening in 2021, when she was aged just 18, in her first-ever job role. Her work following that appointment led to her promotion to hotel supervisor in March 2022.

“I feel really proud of myself for achieving this accolade and in my first job,” Sophie said after winning the award. “I get a real buzz working at The Watchman and seeing the delight our customers get from enjoying our food and facilities.”

How to enter the 2024 awards

The NFU Mutual and Scotland Food & Drink Inspirational Young Person Award 2024 is open for entries from today (March 26 until July 12). Submit your entry or make a nomination HERE. Any individual between the ages of 16 and 26 who owns, works, or studies within a food and drink-related business, organisation or institution can be nominated or enter on their own behalf. The winner will receive £500, with the second and third-place finalists receiving £300 and £200 respective. Winners will be announced in September 2024.

Pictured: Last year's winner, Sophie Mackenzie from West Lothian, following her outstanding dedication to service, standards and excellent feedback from patrons at The Watchman Hotel in Gullane, East Lothian.