Young people working across the food and drink sector in Lanarkshire are being urged to apply for a national award.
Applications for the NFU Mutual’s Inspirational Young Person Award are open until July 31, and youngsters in the region's hospitality industry are being urged to get involved.
The award aims to highlight not only the enormous contribution young workers make to Scotland’s food and drink businesses, but also the importance of the sector to the wider economy.
In partnership with industry body Scotland Food and Drink, NFU Mutual is seeking to uncover inspirational examples of talented 16 to 26-year-olds who own, work or study in the food and drink sector, and are driving the success of the industry in Scotland.
The first, second and third place winners will be announced during Scottish Food and Drink fortnight – September 4 to 19 and awarded cash prizes of £500, £300 and £200 respectively.
In recognition of the challenges the industry is currently facing, this year’s judging criteria will look to reward young people who have adapted their work in the industry to fit the changing environment, contributing to the resilience of Scotland’s food and drink sector during the ongoing crisis.
Helen Stewart, 25-year-old owner of Badvo distillery and winner of the award in 2018 encouraged youngsters to apply for the award, saying she used her prize to launch a new product which sold out within two weeks.
She added: "Plus the trophy is huge.”
Chief Executive at Scotland Food & Drink, James Withers, said: “There are so many exceptional young people in the Scottish food and drink industry and it’s only right that we champion them.
"I would encourage employers, tutors, colleagues, customers or young people themselves to nominate someone they know who fits the criteria.”
Entries can be made online.
