I was fortunate enough yesterday to attend a lunch with some of the top businesspeople in Scotland, hosted by Odger's in aid of the Saltire Foundation. After a brief discussion, a common concern was aired that young up-starters in Scotland faced a 'treacle puddle' upon their return to Scotland from overseas. This puddle contains certain unhelpful attitudes from industries and employers in Scotland, negating the 'can-do' spirit that many young professionals bring home to Scotland. This can include remarks like "Don't think you're anything special" or "Don't get ahead of yourself". This was introduced to me in the US as the "I ken't yer faither' attitude that prevents Scottish professionals from realising their full potential. 

This has always been something that has held interest for me, as I watched initiatives like 'Scotland the Brand', 'ConfidentScotland' and 'Can-Do Scotland' fail after a number of attempts to convince Scots that the programmes were worth it. The Saltire Foundation must avid the same problems. If we are to build on this truly unique programme and turn it into something really lasting, we must truly believe in ourselves and convince others of our world-class nature and global potential.

The Saltire Foundation is providing interns and fellows with the experience to help people through the treacle puddle and make sure they don't get caught up in attitudes that can hold us back. After this experience it is up to us to match that experience with ambition. If we really face this puddle head-on, we can eventually make sure the treacle puddle is eradicated and replaced by a pool of talent and support for professionals in Scotland who really can change the face of this country.