West Lothian Courier

Mirhan wins at training awards

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“To hear it being announced was a surprise and I am still in shock. It feels like a dream and that I am going to wake up any minute.

“The best part of my apprentice­ship is everyone I work with. They are just like my family.

“I want to say a massive thank you to my employers. I will never been able to return what they have given to me.”

Mi rhan added: “To anyone thinking of doing an apprentice­ship I would say to go into it head-first. They won’t regret it.

“When you do an apprentice­ship, you get your foot in the door.

“Si n c e s t a rting my apprentice­ship I have gone from feeling I was at ground level to the very top in terms of my mental health and my confidence. Now I can talk to anyone on the spot, without being scared or feeling like I was going to cry. It has been a life-changing experience.”

Chris Stewart from The Larder Cafe said: “Mirhan is extremely positive and has a ‘can do’ attitude.

“She faces things head-on and does everything 100 per cent.

“She is different from the very quiet person who started with us. She has increased in positivity, confidence and belief in herself since she started.

“Mi rha n takes on responsibi­lities without being asked. I see a person growing into who they should be and who they could be.”

Sarah Dalrymple of SD Consultanc­y, who nominated Mirhan for the award, said: “Mirhan has a determinat­ion which sets her apart and is developing a set of skills which will stand her in good stead. She has had a lot to deal with and never fails to smile and be friendly.”

Skills Developmen­t Scotland chair Frank Mitchell, said: “More than ever, employers are recognisin­g the benefits of investing in skills and apprentice­ships.

“The Scottish Apprentice­ship Awards show the value apprentice­s add to businesses and the economy.

“This year’s fantastic winners and finalists show that apprentice­ships provide productivi­ty, diversity, fresh talent, and the right skills for Scotland.

“Congratula­tions to Mirhan, who is a great example of apprentice­ships unlocking potential and changing lives.”

Deputy First Minister John Swinney said: “I’ve been fortunate enough to meet apprentice­s across Scotland and I’m always greatly impressed by their dedication, commitment and enthusiasm.

“Apprentice­s have continued to make a positive difference to business and to help underpin Scotland’s economic competitiv­eness by providing us with the skills we need for today and tomorrow.”

I see a person growing into who they should be

 ??  ?? Spotlight Mirhan Smith receives her trophy
The talented 19- yearold from Livingston was announced as modern apprentice of the year SCQF Level 5, sponsored by College Developmen­t Network.
She won the award in front of over 350 apprentice­s, employers and training providers at the awards at the Caird Hall in Dundee, run by Skills Developmen­t Scotland.
Mirhan works for The Larder Cook School, which tries to reach people who are furthest from the jobs market.
Now training to be a commis chef, she found her hospitalit­y apprentice­ship through Skills Developmen­t Scotland and has gained experience working at the school’s cafe in East Calder.
Mirhan said: “I was happy with being nominated and I never thought I would win.
Spotlight Mirhan Smith receives her trophy The talented 19- yearold from Livingston was announced as modern apprentice of the year SCQF Level 5, sponsored by College Developmen­t Network. She won the award in front of over 350 apprentice­s, employers and training providers at the awards at the Caird Hall in Dundee, run by Skills Developmen­t Scotland. Mirhan works for The Larder Cook School, which tries to reach people who are furthest from the jobs market. Now training to be a commis chef, she found her hospitalit­y apprentice­ship through Skills Developmen­t Scotland and has gained experience working at the school’s cafe in East Calder. Mirhan said: “I was happy with being nominated and I never thought I would win.

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