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ASVA Announces Inspiring People Awards 2026 Shortlist

Added: 20 Oct 2026

15 outstanding individuals from across Scotland’s visitor attractions sector have been shortlisted for the ASVA Inspiring People Awards 2026, supported by VisitScotland.

The Association of Scottish Visitor Attractions (ASVA) has announced the finalists for its 2026 Inspiring People Awards, celebrating the exceptional individuals who make Scotland’s visitor attractions world-class.

From frontline staff creating unforgettable visitor experiences to those working behind the scenes to grow audiences, drive commercial success and strengthen community connections, the awards recognise the people whose passion, creativity and dedication make a real difference.

This year’s shortlist features 15 individuals from attractions across Scotland, competing in five categories, including two new awards for 2026 – Audience Builder and Commercial Excellence.

The winners will be announced at the ASVA Conference on Thursday 12 November 2026 at Perth Concert Hall, where colleagues from across Scotland’s visitor attractions sector will come together to celebrate their achievements.

Michael Golding, CEO of ASVA, said:

“Scotland’s visitor attractions are full of brilliant people who go above and beyond every day to create memorable experiences for visitors. These awards are about recognising those individuals – whether they’re welcoming visitors, inspiring their teams, finding new audiences or making a real difference in their communities.

“The standard of nominations this year has been fantastic, and it’s wonderful to see such a strong shortlist representing attractions across Scotland. Congratulations to everyone shortlisted. We’re looking forward to celebrating their achievements at the ASVA Conference in November.”

ASVA Inspiring People Awards 2026 – Shortlist

Rising Star 

Recognising emerging talent making an impact in the industry.

• Gary Jamieson – Schools Development Officer, V&A Dundee
• Sadie Largan – Marketing Executive, The Lost Close
• Tara Murphy – Distillery Guide, Luss Distillery

Audience Builder 

Celebrating individuals finding new ways to connect audiences with attractions.

• Alastair Bruce – Planetarium Manager, Dynamic Earth
• Ian Crew – Manager, Dryburgh and Jedburgh Abbeys, Historic Environment Scotland
• Elizabeth Riley – Marketing Manager, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh

Commercial Excellence 

Recognising individuals driving commercial success while delivering excellent visitor experiences.

• Pietro Cecchini – Head of Business Development, The Scotch Whisky Experience
• Dan Jones – Retail Manager, Camera Obscura & World of Illusions
• Tony MacLean – Brand Home Manager, Luss Distillery

People’s Hero 

Celebrating those making a difference through community engagement, inclusion and accessibility.

• Iain Allan – Brand Ambassador, Glen Moray Distillery
• Emma Clark – Learning and Engagement Manager, Community Programmes, Dynamic Earth
• Lukas Strielciunas – Guiding Crew Member, Cruise Loch Ness Ltd

Experience Maker 

Recognising individuals delivering exceptional visitor experiences, whether face-to-face or behind the scenes.

• Lauren Macrae – Head of Visitor Experience and Events, The Tall Ship Glenlee
• Shona Murray – Visitor Services Supervisor, House of Dun, National Trust for Scotland
• Fraser Robson – Senior Guest Experience Manager, Gordon and MacPhail

Recognition that makes a difference

For previous winners, the awards have provided a valuable opportunity to celebrate achievements, build confidence and recognise the contribution of colleagues and teams.

Megan Hamilton, Rising Star winner in 2025 from The Real Mary King’s Close, reflected on the impact of receiving her award:

“Receiving the Rising Star in Tourism award meant so much more to me than simply receiving recognition. It gave me pause to reflect back on how far I had come, how much I have grown and the challenges I have faced along the way.”

Ashleigh Pink, from Dundee Heritage Trust, who won the Experience Maker Award in 2025, added:

“Winning the Experience Maker award was a fantastic recognition, not just for me but for the brilliant team around me. It gave us a real sense of pride.”

Winners announced at ASVA Conference 2026

All 15 shortlisted individuals will receive a complimentary ticket to attend the ASVA Conference, where the winners will be revealed during a special awards ceremony on 12 November.

The ASVA Inspiring People Awards 2026 are supported by VisitScotland.