A year after being named Rising Star at the Scottish Thistle Awards, Hugh Mackay has revealed the last 12 months have been transformative, bringing new opportunities, industry recognition, and professional development.
The award, which celebrates emerging talent from across Scotland's tourism and events industry, was accompanied by a Hospitality Industry Trust (HIT) Scotland scholarship, providing opportunities to develop new skills and gain fresh perspectives on the sector.
Hugh Mackay being awarded Rising Star at the 2025 Scottish Thistle Awards
For Hugh, who was previously in the army and is now a tour guide with Highland Experience Tours, one of the biggest changes has been the recognition he now receives from industry colleagues and partners.
He revealed, "People are recognizing me and always making comments on the success, or saying, 'Oh, you're the piping tour guide that won the Thistle Awards'."
That recognition has been particularly rewarding because it acknowledges the passion Hugh brings to his role every day.
He said, "It feels great to finally be seen for my passion of being myself in a job and sector I am in love with."
Hugh out and about leading one of his tours
The HIT Scotland scholarship has also played a key role in his development over the past year, broadening his understanding of leadership and management within the tourism industry.
Drawing on his military background, he says the experience offered valuable insight into different approaches to leading teams and organisations.
He explained, "The scholarship has helped me look into the wider world of management within a sector and industry and also look into the civilian side of things when it comes to company management. Having a military background, we do things slightly differently."
Looking back on the past year, Hugh believes the opportunities that have come his way have reinforced his motivation to continue developing his career in Scotland's visitor economy.
He said, "Being alongside my peers who have been here longer in this job shows my motivation and commitment to the industry. I believe it's a step in the right direction for sure."
Hugh ready for another exciting day touring Scotland
As this week marks Scottish Careers Week and highlights the varied career paths available across Scotland's tourism and events sector, Hugh has a simple message for anyone considering joining the industry.
He declared, "Simply, in the words of Nike, just do it!"
He believes that the people you encounter are among the most rewarding aspects of a career in tourism.
Hugh said, "The people we meet along the way truly install belief in humanity. To learn about all people's journeys and experiences in life, I find, is just simply the most humbling. Nowhere else will you experience that than the tourism and events industry."
Hugh is an accomplished bagpiper and often plays his pipes for visitors
As the tourism and events industry prepares to celebrate another year of talent and achievement through the Scottish Thistle Awards national final, Hugh would encourage future Rising Stars to make the most of every opportunity available to them.
Hugh shared a personal motto that has shaped his approach to challenges and new opportunities.
He said, "Embrace the discomfort and you will endeavour through your adversities. Embrace everything you can and that if there is an opportunity for something, even just a photoshoot or a statement or a scholarship... TAKE IT.
"It can be daunting at first, but the sense of accomplishment and pride in this industry is truly remarkable for me.
"Throw yourself at every opportunity, work hard, be honest with yourself and others, and simply enjoy."
Hugh receiving his award at last year's ceremony
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