Dreams, goals and ambitions?
DRiNKLiNK was formed around my Mum’s kitchen table, initially with my Mum (funnily enough), my cousin and a valued work colleague. Our initial vision was the same as it is today. No-one’s life should be impacted by someone else’s drinking. That is our overarching aim.
What has been the highlight?
When you are unleashing an idea onto the world for the first time, it is a little like asking people to tell you that your baby is ugly. You know that whatever they say you will take personally. Everyone has an opinion. The opinion I valued the most was that of my family. The highlight for me was in 2012, some of my most valued family and friends rallied behind the cause by jumping out of a plane in support of the cause. To have their support was incredible … and the experience of jumping out of a plane was out of this world … literally.
Why you got involved?
It’s so easy for life to spiral out of control. One event can turn your life upside down. When I lost someone I loved and admired to alcohol I was really disappointed with the support offered to family. I made a commitment that I would do all that I could to ensure that a daughter, a mother or a friend shouldn’t have to go through what we went through. If our effort creates a silver-lining for even one person, the effort will be worthwhile.
What was the Eureka moment?
Getting the support of the board and our partner network behind a signposting website. When we first started this, it was little more than the team and I running around with a pen and paper trying to communicate what we believed to be a game changing idea. Less than five years later, we are well on our way to achieve our objective and, as well as some impressive brands supporting our cause. We have a board full with people that inspired me along the way and the opportunity to work with support services that I respect.
What was your path to DRiNKLiNK?
For the last 10 years I have worked in the marketing world alongside some of the most progressive and talented web developers and digital masterminds, including Form Digital who have been absolutely essential in the development of our websites.
What are you passionate about?
Travel is my absolute passion. I recently joined Red Wing Shoe Company in a role that takes me all over the world. I am always interested to see the alcohol culture in the countries that I visit. Having lived in Scotland for the most part of my life, I assumed our relationship was consistent across the globe – it was interesting to see the contrast.
What’s on your bucket list for 2018:?
This year, I am determined to trek Ben Nevis as part of the High 5 challenge.