Sports stars help deliver inspiration for students
STARS from the world of sport and media were inspiring university students with their tales of success.
Scotland rugby player and Glasgow Caledonian University student Jade Konkel, Commonwealth gymnast Steve Frew and alumnus Colin Stone, addressed students in leadership and entrepreneurialism at an event on campus.
Jade has played in Scotland Women’s Six Nations squad and been capped 23 times.
She is the first woman in Scotland’s history to sign a professional contract in rugby and combines this with studying for a BSc (Hons) in Social Work.
Jade said: “Being the first and only Scottish female professional rugby player, I think I have a good story to tell and hopefully mine can inspire others to chase after their dreams.”
Gymnast Steve Frew, who took gold in the men’s rings at the 2002 Commonwealth Games, delivered an inspirational speech. He said: “I was lucky enough to be the first gymnast to win Scotland’s first ever Gold Medal in gymnastics in the history of the Commonwealth.
“I had to break down barriers, handle setbacks, and get over many hurdles, and do something that hadn’t been done before.
“By sharing my journey, I hope students can learn there aren’t any limits and give them the confidence to be the best they can be.”
The annual event invites speakers from the world of sport, media, business and fashion, hospitality, tourism and retail to demonstrate diversity of achievement and to inspire current students
STV reporter and former GCU multi-media journalist Colin Stone spoke of his position as a news presenter on the channel.
He said: “Students are savvy and switched on, and if people from this university can come back and speak to students of today – I think that is very helpful.”