Shortlisted for the Fiona Colley Trainee of the Year Award at the Springboard Awards for Excellence 2025
At just 22 years old, Catrina McGregor’s story is one of remarkable resilience. Hailing from Glasgow, she has overcome immense personal challenges to build a brighter future, thanks to the Learning for Life programme in partnership with Diageo. Now shortlisted for the national Fiona Colley Trainee of the Year Award at the Springboard Awards for Excellence, Catrina’s journey highlights the power of perseverance and the impact of the right support at the right time.
Growing up, Catrina was a bright and outgoing child, but behind her confident exterior lay a reality marked by instability. She faced significant challenges at home, experiencing periods of neglect that affected her emotional well-being. Eventually, social services intervened, placing her in foster care – a transition that left her feeling scared and alone. Though she was later reunited with her mother, tragedy struck when, at just seven years old, her mother passed away. This devastating loss led Catrina to live with her grandmother, who became her source of stability and encouragement.
Encouraged by her gran, she worked hard on a portfolio and was eventually accepted into Glasgow School of Art. But when her gran passed away, the grief was overwhelming. She withdrew her application, putting her artistic dreams on hold and struggling with confidence and direction.
After a year of grieving Catrina was encouraged by her art teacher to apply again and was accepted and dedicated herself to her studies. She graduated from Glasgow School of Art in 2024 and struggled to secure employment. She lacked work experience, and her confidence in social settings had deteriorated. Despite applying for jobs, she found herself unable to progress past interviews. Financial pressures mounted, and she felt increasingly isolated.
A chance conversation with a woman who had completed a Springboard course changed everything. Inspired by the support available, Catrina enrolled in the Diageo Learning for Life Programme, delivered in partnership with Springboard. She joined the Introduction to Hospitality course in Glasgow and began a transformative journey.
As part of the programme, Catrina gained hands-on experience at Leonardo Hotel Glasgow, working in food and beverage, and housekeeping. Initially, she was nervous, worried about making mistakes. However, with the encouragement of the team, she embraced the learning process, developing her own techniques to build skills and confidence. She asked questions, took notes, and most importantly, didn’t give up when faced with challenges.
Through her placement, Catrina discovered a passion for working in hospitality – particularly on the breakfast shift, where she thrived on customer interaction. She found herself reconnecting with the outgoing person she once was, growing in confidence and rediscovering her love for engaging with people.
Her dedication and hard work didn’t go unnoticed. In November 2024, Catrina was offered a permanent role as a Food & Beverage Assistant at Leonardo Hotel, a testament to her resilience and commitment. Today, she is flourishing in her role, embracing new opportunities, and even feeling inspired to pick up painting again – something she had lost touch with during difficult times.
Reflecting on her journey, Catrina said:
“My life is back on track! This experience has helped me grow, not just professionally but personally. I feel like I’m finding my confidence again, and I’m forever grateful to Springboard, Diageo’s Learning for Life programme, and Leonardo Hotel for giving me a chance.”
Catrina’s journey is a testament to the power of training, mentorship, and opportunity in transforming lives. With a brighter future ahead, she exemplifies how the right support can unlock potential and create lasting change. Now shortlisted for the Fiona Colley Award for Trainee of the Year, she stands as a true inspiration, demonstrating the resilience and determination needed to overcome challenges and succeed.
