Future Focus

In celebration of Scotland’s Year of Young People 2018, we explore the journeys of a range of young people who share valuable insights and experiences of their career journey in tourism and hospitality to date.  Tapping into the passion and ambition of young people working in the industry, our Future Focus series will spotlight a number of individuals throughout the year giving you a chance to meet a range of young tourism ambassadors as the year progresses.  

The country’s enduring popularity as a holiday destination isn’t just down to its breathtaking landscapes, cultural traditions and wealth of visitor attractions - those who work in tourism also have a crucial part to play, ensuring that visitors leave with lasting memories.  

Tourism is more than a holiday experience – it creates jobs, sustains communities and provides an international shop window for Scotland. From chefs to tours guides, event organisers to marketeers, the Scottish tourism industry is the heartbeat of the Scottish economy and a fast-paced, vibrant place to choose as a career path.

Inspiring and investing in young people has never been more important not just for the future growth and sustainability of the tourism and hospitality sector, but also for the communities in which they live. We all play a role in unlocking the tremendous potential for young people to grow, prosper, and lead whether it be through apprenticeships, work-experience or learning resources.

Are there opportunities to celebrate young people within your own organisation?  Are you inspiring the next generation within your own business direct or through educational links?  Do you know a young person who shows real promise as a rising star in the industry?  Join the conversation #FutureFocus #YOYP2018 and watch this space as we feature even more tourism champions as the year progresses.

Edinburgh based Joe Posnett is currently in year three of the Apprenticeship in Hospitality, Scotland (AHS), based at the Apex Grassmarket Hotel. He was inspired to become an apprentice following a summer working overseas in the tourism industry. 

AHS is a world-class, industry-led Hospitality Apprenticeship programme. It aims to nurture, develop and inspire the next generation of highly skilled talent for the Scottish hospitality industry and offers a route to gaining a qualification alongside practical experience in some of Scotland’s leading hotels.  

A true champion for the sector, Joe is passionate not only about Scotland, but advocating vocational learning and encouraging tourism as a career opportunity directly with education.