Sam Bruce — From Isolation to Entrepreneurial Inspiration 

Level 6 Hospitality Student | Founder of Sam’s Sweetie Fix 

When Sam Bruce moved to Scotland for her husband’s work, life took an unexpected turn. His job didn’t work out, and shortly after, he became seriously ill. Sam found herself becoming his full-time carer — a role that gradually eroded her confidence. Isolated and rarely leaving the house, she began to feel like this was her new reality. "I really thought this was it," she says. "I was bound to be stuck at home forever." 

Start Up +

But a simple moment changed everything. 

One day while out in Hawick, Sam noticed a banner for Borders College. On a whim, she decided to explore the hospitality courses. That decision led her to meet Michelle Blakie, a lecturer who would become a major influence on her journey. Sam enrolled in Level 5 Hospitality and later progressed to Level 6. 

Michelle was also the one who encouraged Sam to take a leap and sign up for the Start-Up competition — and that’s where everything shifted. 

“This competition has given me confidence I didn’t know I had,” says Sam. “It proved to me that amazing things happen when you push yourself out of your comfort zone.” 

While Sam didn’t win any prize money, she says that the experience itself — and the mentorship she received throughout — was more valuable than any financial reward. 

Her business idea, Sam’s Sweetie Fix – for all occasions, is deeply rooted in personal memories. Inspired by her mum and grandmother, Sam wants to spark nostalgic joy in others through retro sweeties, wedding favours, party bags, and letterbox treats. “I want to create new memories for this generation, and bring back sweet ones for others.” 

Sam has now officially registered her business, has a room in her home undergoing renovation to become her work space, and has launched her TikTok and Facebook business accounts. Sam’s Sweetie Fix will go live in mid-July 2025. 

“Without the support and belief from Michelle — and the mentorship from Lee-Anne — I know I wouldn’t have had the confidence to do this,” she says. 

Now, Sam is passionate about showing others that it’s never too late to change your life: 

“No matter your age or your past mistakes — believe in yourself. When I started college, I never imagined I’d be launching my own business at the end of it.” 

🔧 What Could Make the Program Even Stronger: 

Sam reflected on a few areas where additional support could help future participants: 

  • More opportunities to meet in person (sessions often clashed with service/study times)
  • Stronger business foundations — more business-specific training alongside hospitality
  • Opportunities to collaborate with students in other fields (e.g. art/graphics for branding)
  • Exposure to similar businesses — she feels that she would have found events like the Kelso Wedding Fayre useful for example. 

💬 Final Words from Sam: 

“This process has changed me as a person. I’m still working on my mindset, but I’m shaking off the negativity. I now know I am good enough — and I can do this.

“Thank you, Start-Up, for coming around. You will be listened to, your ideas will be taken seriously, and you’ll get honest, constructive feedback in a safe place. I highly recommend this — just go for it.” 

 
/Back to Start-Up Zone