Last week, Diageo's acclaimed Learning for Life hospitality industry skills programme celebrated an impressive milestone - its ten-year anniversary.
At Johnnie Walker Princes Street in Edinburgh, politicians, industry leaders, and programme graduates convened to recognize the achievements of this impactful initiative.
Over the past decade, Diageo has invested £10 million in the Learning for Life programme, providing top-tier training through partnership with Springboard.
More than 6,000 individuals have gained new skills and found employment opportunities within Scotland's thriving hospitality sector.
Graeme Dey MSP, Minister for Higher and Further Education in Scotland, expressed admiration for the programme that has contributed to personal growth and the attractiveness of hospitality as a career option.
Gillian Dalziel, Diageo's Learning for Life programme manager, shared her pride in witnessing the programme's positive impact on participants.
Springboard, the lead delivery partner over the last ten years, expressed their delight at collaborating with Diageo to foster a robust talent pipeline and future career prospects within the industry.
The Learning for Life programme originated in Latin America a decade ago as an initiative to tackle youth unemployment, later expanding to Scotland and the UK.
Chris Gamm, CEO of Springboard, commended Diageo's commitment to nurturing talent and creating opportunities for those seeking employment in the hospitality sector.
In reflection on this remarkable achievement, the Learning for Life programme continues to inspire and empower individuals while contributing positively to Scotland's economy.