HARD work and determination has paid off for an inspirational young Gourock man who has won a national award after setting up his own business.

David Faller has overcome various barriers to be presented with a government ‘New Business of the Year’ award for his exciting social media management venture.

The 28-year-old, who is a former pupil of Glenburn School, said he is overwhelmed to win the prestigious accolade after signing up for the New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) initiative — a Government scheme to help unemployed people start their own business. 

He said: “I’m over the moon. It’s great that my new social media management business has been recognised in this way.”

Since leaving school, David, who has learning difficulties and suffers from asthma, worked in various jobs, including event resources, as a theatre lighting/audio operative and a radio presenter/producer on Inverclyde Radio.

But when the station closed down, David was was left out of work.

But with the support of his former radio colleague Willie Stewart, David embarked on an exciting new career path.

He said: “Working at the station was a fantastic experience so it was sad when it folded.

“However I went to the Jobcentre and from there I got the support I needed to become self-employed.

“I was put on the New Enterprise Allowance initiative which gives people the financial and practical help to start up a new business.”

Through the scheme, David has learned various new skills such as how to put a business plan together and manage a personal budget.

He has also learned how to work with spreadsheets and calculate projected turnovers.

David added: “I’ve really enjoyed it.

“Without that programme it would not have been possible for me to set up on my own.”

Since starting his journey, David’s business has grown and he is working for major local and national companies around the country.

His mentor Willie, who met David eight years ago when they both worked in hospital radio,, is thrilled that he has won this award.

He said: “I think the award reflects the passion and effort that David puts into his own social media business.

“I will continue to assist him when I can.”

David received his award recently at a ceremony at The Lighthouse in Glasgow.

His success is the reason David has been nominated in our new Community Champion Awards in the Young Enterprise category, sponsored by Arnold Clark.

Visit our event website at http://newsquestscotlandevents.com/events/greenockcommchamp/ for more information on how to tell us about your local heroes.