SILVER THISTLE AWARD
The Silver Thistle Award recognises an individual who has made an outstanding contribution to tourism over many years.
The Silver Thistle Award winner will continue to act as an ambassador for the Scottish tourism sector in general, and the Thistle Awards in particular, for years to come, as they have much to offer the industry.
Nominations are put forward by the Scottish Thistle Award Industry Panel members and VisitScotland Chair, Chief Executive and Executive Directors. Nominees must be an established figure within their field and the wider Scottish tourism industry. They should inspire excellence in others as well as encouraging and delivering stand-out work.
Responsible tourism is now at the heart of the Scottish Thistle Awards, supporting the aim for Scotland to be recognised globally as a leader in this field. The Silver Thistle Award recognises an individual who is pivotal in helping the tourism and events industry become the best it can be, having embraced best practice and leading by example in one or more of the four key areas of a low carbon economy, inclusivity, thriving communities and Scotland’s natural and cultural heritage.
Kat Brogan | Silver Thistle winner 2024
Under Kat’s stewardship, Mercat has also earned countless accolades, most recently becoming the first BCorp-accredited visitor attraction in the UK.
Her innovations at Mercat Tours have transformed how tourism supports Edinburgh’s communities, demonstrating that tourism can be a force for positive change and community building.
But Kat’s influence extends well beyond her many accomplishments with Mercat Tours. Her leadership roles across the industry reflect a steadfast commitment to fair wages and accessibility in tourism.
As co-chair of the Edinburgh Living Wage Action Group and a member of the Scottish Government Tourism and Hospitality Industry Leadership Group, she works to enhance labour standards and make tourism a viable, year-round profession.
She is an inspiration. Her contributions have been pivotal in setting a new standard of excellence for Scotland’s tourism sector.
2024 Silver Thistle Award winner
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Scottish Thistle Awards
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