AMBASSADOR ROLE FOR MARGARET
A Drogheda woman has been selected to represent Ireland at one of the world’s largest employment events.
Margaret Reilly, entrepreneur at Grand Designs Kitchen & Bedrooms, has been selected as Ireland’s Ambassador for the 2018 European Vocational Skills Week, which will be held in Vienna, Austria from November 5th -9th.
“Keeping business local is so vital here in Drogheda and in communities across Ireland, and apprenticeships can help deliver on that,” says Margaret, who has owned Grand Designs for almost 10 years.
“My role as Ambassador for the European Vocational Skills Week is to tell everyone, young people, teachers, career counsellors and parents: everyone has the potential to be great at something.”
Margaret has shared her own story in Ted Talks around the country of how an academic route to her dream career wasn’t for her, and says she is delighted to have that opportunity on an international platform too.
“I could never have dreamed I would one day run my own business doing something I love. And it was an apprenticeship as well as some choice words of encouragement that got me here,” she says.
“My message is that third level education is not for everyone. Sometimes the better route is through apprenticeships. And remember, vocational education and training is an opportunity for all age groups – it’s never too late to learn!”
Organised by the European Commission, the week will involve hundreds of events across the EU to highlight the benefits that Vocational Education and Training ( VET) brings to people of all ages.
“Discover your Talent!” is the motto of the campaign and Margaret aims to show that VET and apprenticeships are a smart choice, leading to high-quality jobs and increased employability.
“I am delighted that Margaret Reilly has accepted to be an Ambassador for our European Vocational Skills Week in November,” added Marianne Thyssen, the EU Commissioner for Employment, Social Affairs, Skills and Labour Mobility.
“I am firmly convinced that vocational education and training is a great first choice for a first-rate career, and I know that Margaret Reilly shares our commitment to spread that message loud and clear”.
Last year, over 1,500 events took place across 45 countries during the second edition of the European Vocational Skills Week.
The 2018 Week is expected to attract an even bigger turnout. The total reach of the campaign on social media last year was over 15 million people.