Age is no barrier if you have the top work ethic
AMBITION and passion have spurred a young mum on to land a senior management role at the age of just 21.
Rosie Strachan is one of 20 staff who make up the largely female workforce at children’s soft-play activity centre Frankie and Lola’s in Inverness.
Miss Strachan, who is also a dance teacher, holds down the position of manager. She hopes other young people may be inspired by her hard-work ethic.
“I left school as soon as I could,” she said. “I didn’t really enjoy it and I just wanted to get out and get working.
“Previously I worked in hotels but when I became pregnant and told my employer they weren’t supportive at all.
“I had always wanted to work with kids and I saw a position at Frankie and Lola’s advertised and I got in touch. I told them I was pregnant and I asked if that was OK and owner Lisa Lugton said of course. Since then I’ve never looked back.”
She started off as a general staff member at the venue that has an average footfall of 8000-10,000 people per month. She then became supervisor before being promoted to manager following her return from maternity leave.
“I like that I’m similar in age to some of the other staff,” Miss Strachan said. “I have a lot of respect for the staff and they have a lot of respect for me.”
Her sisters Shania (16) and Danielle (14) also work at Frankie and Lola’s at weekends and during holidays.
“When you are in charge of a unit with such a high volume of people through its doors and the responsibility of ensuring the safety and enjoyment of all, it can be quite daunting at times but I thrive on the challenge and go up a gear when it’s busy.”
Miss Strachan hopes her experience proves that it is possible to achieve success despite your age or your circumstances, as long as you work hard.
“It doesn’t matter what your situation is as long as you are responsible and a hard worker,” she said. “If you are passionate about something and it really interests you I don’t see why you couldn’t do a job regardless of your age or anything else.”
Other fellow female senior members of staff at Frankie and Lola’s include office manager Astra Bryston and head chef Eilidh Gillies. Andrea MacDonald is also in a manager role. Lisa and Jason Lugton set up the business two years ago.
Mrs Lugton said: “Rosie is an excellent role model and we are so very proud to watch her excel in her role from a general soft-play assistant, to supervisor and now general manager.
“There aren’t many people we would entrust to run our business in our absence, and to do this at 21 years of age is extremely impressive.
“This is proof that a person’s age shouldn’t hold them back as it is down to Rosie’s ability, work ethic and attitude. We are delighted to play a part in mentoring her and we look forward to watching her grow and excel in the future.”
Miss Strachan teaches ballet to youngsters in Aviemore three times a week and is also studying for an SVQ in social care.
