From Homeless Shelter to Local Hero: William's Inspiring Journey
May 18, 2023Posted by:
From sitting in a homeless shelter to being recognized as a local hero at the Midlothian and East Lothian Business Awards, William Kivlin's journey is one of inspiration and hope. After being referred to the part ESF funded New Enterprise Allowance, which was run by PeoplePlus, by his Work Coach at Dalkeith Job Centre, William was allocated a self-employment adviser who supported him to produce his Business Plan and access vital funding, enabling him to start his own business. With the help of his partner, Destiny O'Neill, William started Old School Takeaway from their home in Mayfield, offering breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a wide range of healthy and affordable food.
William's drive and enthusiasm have already benefited the region in many ways. Last Christmas, he cooked 200 Christmas dinners and donated children's gifts to the local community with the help of a small army of local volunteers. He has also received over 350 five-star reviews from happy customers and plans to become a social enterprise to start cooking classes in homeless accommodation units, offering hope for the future.
Willaim has said: "l don't feel like a local Hero. I just feel like we're doing what I set out to do. I'm still blown away. Going from being homeless for more than three years to receiving a business award as a Local Hero is mind-blowing and a journey. It's incredible."
The award for Local Hero at the Midlothian and East Lothian Business Awards is for an individual who has gone above and beyond for the local community, and William is a well-deserving recipient. He's come a long way since he put his vision on paper at his hostel, and it's just mind-blowing what he's achieved, especially given the situation he found himself in. William's message to anyone with a dream like his is to never give up, and his story is a testament to that.
May 18, 2023Posted by:
