Shetland’s Regional Food Group, A Taste of Shetland have recruited 2 highly qualified individuals to the role of Project Leader. Working on a job share basis; Akshay Jamwal and Rebekah Dalgleish will be working together to fulfil the organisation’s aim to collectively support and promote the producers and providers of food and drink in Shetland.
They bring a wealth of experience to the team and will begin work on an ambitious plan for the new financial year in the coming weeks. But, as well as professional experience and qualifications, both have grown up in food production. Akshay was born in a small town in rural India and spent much of his childhood on a working farm — giving him true insight into the reality of agriculture and the challenges within the industry. His working life was based in Mumbai before he moved to Shetland, but he's always felt closer to his agrarian roots. This is also why he feels so at home in Shetland.
Rebekah’s first job, within her family’s business Blueshell Mussels, has given her a lasting enthusiasm for local food and drink and a strong belief that world class produce is created on Shetland’s shores.
Speaking of his appointment, Akshay said "I’ve spent my whole career helping businesses grow, find the right customers and tell their stories better. What excites me about this new role is the opportunity to bring that experience to Shetland’s food and drink producers. Having run my own business for nearly 30 years, I understand the realities that come with it. Seasonal cash flow. The feast-or-famine cycle. Building visibility in the market. Managing with limited staff. I understand these issues from the inside, and I’m here to help businesses work through them. Shetland businesses produce exceptional food and drink. My job is to use all my business experience to help them thrive."
Rebekah is excited to get started; “Having grown up around Shetland’s food industry, this role feels especially meaningful to me. I’ve seen the dedication that goes into producing world-class food here in Shetland, and I’m passionate about making sure those businesses feel valued and visible. I’m looking forward to meeting members old and new, hearing their ideas, and working together to strengthen and grow the sector.”
One of the team’s first challenges will be to encourage more local businesses to sign up/renew their membership of the organisation. “Becoming a member is free and has lots of benefits; which are detailed on our website – but if you would rather discuss how we can support and promote your business, we would love to hear from you,” Rebekah states.
"There's never been a more exciting time for Shetland's food and drink industry. We have incredible producers, growing consumer demand for local products, and increasing visitor interest. What we need now are partnerships with organisations who recognise that investing in our local food system creates jobs, strengthens communities, and positions Shetland as a destination for exceptional quality. I'm eager to work with anyone who shares that vision." Akshay adds.
Taste of Shetland Chair, Marian Armitage says: “We are all very optimistic at what feels like a new chapter for our organisation. Having two such capable individuals join our team is a real cause for celebration; not only for us but for all the local providers and producers that we support. I believe that both Akshay and Rebekah are true advocates for Shetland food and drink and have the potential to make a real difference to the industry.”