09/06/2026
Tonight I had the honour of being the guest speaker at the Lockerbie Academy Celebration of Achievements Awards.
It was fantastic to see so many young people being recognised for their hard work, dedication, and achievements throughout the academic year. The talent, commitment, and ambition on display were truly inspiring.
As someone who left Lockerbie Academy in 2008, it was a privilege to return and share my journey—the challenges I've faced, the lessons I've learned, and the opportunities that have come from being willing to step outside my comfort zone and take chances.
One of the key messages I shared was the importance of surrounding yourself with positive, like-minded people who believe in you. The people around you matter. They influence how you think, what you believe you're capable of, and how far you're willing to push yourself. Seek out people who encourage you, challenge you, and genuinely want to see you succeed.
I also spoke about the value of embracing discomfort. Many of the opportunities that have had the biggest impact on my life came from saying yes to something that felt uncomfortable at the time—taking on a new role, starting a business, meeting new people, learning new skills, and walking into rooms where I didn't know anyone.
Growth happens when you're willing to take that step. Confidence doesn't come before you try something new—it comes afterwards. Every time you face uncertainty and move forward anyway, you build trust in yourself. The more you stretch beyond what's familiar, the more capable and confident you become.
My message to the students was simple: don't wait until you feel ready. Take the step, embrace the challenge, and allow yourself to grow into the person you're capable of becoming.
Congratulations to all of tonight's award winners. Your achievements deserve to be celebrated, and you should be incredibly proud of everything you've accomplished.
A huge thank you to Lockerbie Academy for the invitation. It was a real privilege to return, share my experiences, and be part of such a special evening.
