Visit Scotland | Alba
Article published 13/11/2024

This Scottish Careers Week we're highlighting some of our Rising Star finalists in this years' Scottish Thistle Awards. They'll compete for the national title on Thursday 21 November at the national final. 

Co-ordinated by Skills Development Scotland, Scottish Careers Week 2024 (11-15 November) shines a light on the career support available to people of all ages across Scotland.

Tourism is important to the Scottish economy, to the wellbeing of our country, and to the development of a sustainable future.

Working in tourism can be an exciting and rewarding experience, with a diverse range of opportunities. The path into the sector can be varied - read how these rising stars got started with their careers. 

Annika Schneider, who has been at The Scotch Whisky Experience for the last two years, came to tourism having studied Business Administration with culture & leisure management while an undergraduate before completing a master’s in business management.

Annika said: “Creating amazing experiences and lasting memories for people from all over the world is such a joy. I love that I can learn something new and connect with so many people every day in my job. I thoroughly enjoy my work here at the Scotch Whisky Experience and being part of such an engaging and interesting industry.”

Selfie of Thania in the museum

Thania Meneses Flores, who has a background in art and medieval history, museology and dance choreography, began work at the The Trimontium Trust & Museum as a remote intern from Canada in 2020 before becoming a member of staff in 2022.

Thania said: “Museums are wonderful places where culture, history, art, heritage, community, storytelling, and unique experiences intersect. Working in a small museum means wearing many hats, one day, I’m cataloguing collections, the next I’m welcoming visitors or managing social media. It’s a thriving, versatile environment where everyone is welcome. I love bringing collections and history to life for our visitors and community.”

Aedan Doig started work straight from school, completing a modern apprenticeship in hospitality services. He worked at cafes and bars before landing a job at the Loch Fyne Hotel and Spa where he was been for the last three years, including six months at the Balmoral Arms.

Aedan said: “I chose hospitality as it’s a great way to connect with individuals whilst creating memorable experiences for guests and staff. No two days are the same in hospitality which makes work very exciting and challenging. Within my role I have learnt many valuable transferable skills to carry forward. The thing I love most about my job is knowing that my work can make someone’s stay a memorable and positive experience which is really fulfilling.”

Image of Hannah Cochrane at the SEC

Hannah Cochrane has been working in tourism for the last 13 years including planning more than 400 weddings while at House for an Art Lover, promoting restaurants, creating an industry podcast, becoming the Glasgow Ambassador for SITE Scotland (Society for Incentive Travel Excellence), before joining the Scottish Event Campus sell Glasgow as a destination city for events.

Hannah said: “I left school to study early education with a goal to become a primary teacher like my mum. I didn’t see hospitality as a career; it wasn’t well represented at careers fayres or discussed with guidance teachers.

This is something that I’m incredibly passionate to change; engaging with primary school children and university students on career opportunities that can arise from this incredible industry.”

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