International Women’s Day – Minni’s Story
Please introduce your name, your current position, and your venue.
My name is Minni Edwards, and I’m the Deputy Manager at The Steam Packet in Chiswick. I just became Deputy Manager!
Can you tell us a bit about how you got started in the industry, and how that has led you to your current role?
So, I started with this company (Brunning and Price) in 2020. Honestly, it was just after COVID-19, and I was looking for different jobs. I applied and spoke to Josh, who is still one of the Managers to this day. At the start, I didn’t think anything of it; I was like, ‘Ok, it’s just after COVID-19, I’ll just see what happens’… 5 years later, I’m still here! I’ve grown throughout my years of being here, which I never thought at the start, but I’ve stayed this long and loved it for this long.
What attracted you to the hospitality industry initially? Was it something you always knew you wanted to do, or did your path evolve over time?
Obviously, with COVID, I was just applying for anything, but I love talking to people, and I love meeting people like yourself (Gina, Mondo). It made me want to stay. I could have left at a certain point and done something else with my life, but I’ve stayed here in the company, especially because of how great it is. The people, the community, the friendships I’ve made, the relationships I’ve built—everything! I just love hospitality; it’s great.
Were there any challenges you faced early on in your career, and if so, how did you overcome them?
By being honest. I’ve definitely had some times where males have been treated differently than women, especially within hospitality and towards management. Having those conversations—sometimes you have to have them. Say it straight out. It worked out for the best for me, luckily, but just be honest and truthful to yourself. Don’t take any bullshit, go straightforward, and say what you want. Normally, 9 times out of 10, you get it if you’re upfront about everything.
What role or position was a significant turning point for you in your career? Was there a moment when you felt like you really found your niche in the industry?
Working with this company (Brunning and Price), I’ve been across two different sites. When I first left The Roebuck and came here (The Steam Packet), I was just under 2 years in. I was still just bar staff; I was still a waitress. Within 2 months of being here, I was offered Assistant Manager. That was because I came here, and everything was a bit up in the air. Being offered that position from doing—well, not nothing—but coming and doing everything, basically laughs. But still being a bartender and not really knowing everything, that was quite a big shock. That made me think, ‘Shit, yeah, I can do this. I do enjoy doing this.’ It’s actually something I really like doing. I’m very lucky to have been promoted and be in my current position now.
How has your experience in hospitality shaped your personal growth? Have there been any lessons you’ve learned along the way that have impacted other areas of your life?
Compared to my friends that I see now, we all work in different industries. I do think you grow up a lot more in hospitality. It’s because it’s so customer-facing, and you meet so many people. I was 17 when I started, and now I’m nearly turning 23. I’ve felt like I’ve gone from being a child to being an adult quite quickly!
My confidence has definitely built a lot. I was such a shy kid. Now, I can almost talk to anyone. I enjoy talking to people. I didn’t like doing that when I was younger. Building that confidence has made me gain new friends—people I would consider family. Especially this company, it’s been great. The people I’ve met and the management have been amazing.
Do you have any advice or tips for other women who are interested in beginning or growing a career in hospitality?
Stick to it, and don’t give up if you feel you’re being overlooked. Say how you feel and be confident. Be as open as you can about everything; that’s how I’ve done it. I had to tell people exactly what I wanted. It’s 100% a male-dominated industry, but you can see now so many more women are starting to join hospitality and management. It is changing, but you do have to put your foot down, state what you want, and you can do it! Keep at it.