Leads delivery of the Macaroons that Make A Difference programme, specialising in employability training and supporting young people experiencing barriers into work.

Programme Leader Bio

Simon oversees the design and delivery of the Macaroons that Make A Difference training programme, working closely with trainees to build the skills, confidence and behaviours needed for employment. He brings a structured, supportive approach to learning, combining practical experience with coaching and mentoring to help individuals progress from dependence to independence and into work. Simon also works with employer partners to ensure training aligns with real job opportunities, helping create clear pathways from the programme into sustained employment.

Favourite Macaroon Flavour

Chocolate or Pistachio macaroons although I can't wait to try the Christmas chocolate mint flavour.

Favourite thing about my role

What I enjoy most about the role is supporting adults experiencing long term hardship to access meaningful pathways back into work and training. These people may have faced multiple barriers, including mental health differences, time spent in care or an offending history. It is very rewarding to offer someone a relevant, free provision that includes job-ready qualifications and work placements in a kitchen or retail environment, supported by a wraparound counselling service. 

I also enjoy meeting our referral partners at a variety of locations across Birmingham to inform them about the excellent service Miss Macaroon provides, ensuring a healthy stream of referrals for our regular courses. 

MacsMAD programme graduate who progressed from trainee to Junior Baker, now supporting young people into work while contributing to the production of luxury gluten-free macaroons.

Youth Engagement Officer Bio

Saynab joined Miss Macaroon in 2021 as a trainee on the Macaroons that Make A Difference programme, before securing a Kickstart placement and progressing through roles as Kitchen Assistant to Junior Baker. She now combines her technical role in producing handmade gluten-free macaroons with her work as a Youth Engagement Officer, supporting new trainees as they build confidence, develop skills and move towards employment. Saynab brings lived experience to the team, offering relatable guidance and encouragement while helping deliver both high-quality products and meaningful social impact.

Favourite Macaroon flavour

Chocolate macaroon because the taste like brownies, sweet but not too sweet!

Favourite thing about my role

The feedback sessions I run are great because I get to know what the trainees are looking for in life. When I first see them generally they don't know what they want to do, they get scared of their barriers. I was like that before, because of my dyslexia I thought that I couldn't achieve things, so would only focus on the now. It's great to see the trainees think through options, push themselves and plan for the future.

Leads the retail experience at Miss Macaroon, specialising in customer service, luxury gifting and driving sales of premium macaroon gift boxes.

Retail Team Leader Bio

Loulou joined as a retail assistant and has developed into an excellent Retail Team Leader. She oversees the day-to-day running of the retail space, ensuring every customer has a warm, engaging and high-quality experience. She has a strong understanding of what customers are looking for, from thoughtful gifts to standout corporate orders, and plays a key role in driving sales of Miss Macaroon’s luxury macaroon gift boxes. Loulou also supports trainees on the shop floor, helping them build confidence, develop customer service skills and gain real experience in a fast-paced retail environment.

Favourite macaroon flavour

White chocolate cappuccino macaroon, as I like coffee

Favourite thing about my role

My favourite part of the job is seeing first-hand, the difference we're making to the lives of young people who have been struggling, witnessing their confidence grow as they progress through their work experience. When trainees start they might be too nervous to talk to customers and then, by the end, they are able to engage customers in conversations about the products and the programme whilst also feeling confident in all aspects of the work we do in the shop.