Ben Braidwood is the WS Society’s Operations Assistant.

Sarah Leask spoke to Ben about his role at the Society and learnt about some of his interests outside of the Signet Library.

1. You joined the WS Society in 2024, as Operations Assistant. Please tell us about your role at the Society?

My role at the Society encompasses supporting the front of house and operations team. I help with the day to day running of the building and making sure that everything runs smoothly. In addition to this, I help with some administrative tasks and with the set up and running of any events held at the Society. I also help at reception from time to time, so some members may see me when they come into the building either to use the library or if they are taking advantage of the meeting spaces we have.

2. Since joining the Society, what have been your highlights?

Despite being with the Society less than a year, there have been many highlights. Most notably the successful running of the WS Annual Dinner in November, a fabulous event with many members and guests attending. It highlighted all the best the Society has to offer. Another highlight has to be the Scottish Global Dialogues event alongside Beyond Borders Scotland. This was a highly successful and interesting event that highlighted conflicts and issues around the world and the work done by the UN which was led by Martin Griffiths OBE. Another highlight was the WS Christmas carol concert, a wonderful festive event with wonderful singing from pupils of St Mary’s Cathedral. A wonderful event that put me in the festive spirit.

3. I hear that you have played American Football, in the past. Please tell us a bit more.

Yes, I played American Football while at university for the Edinburgh Napier Knights for my 4 years at university and thoroughly enjoyed playing the sport as I had never thought it was a possibility in Scotland! While playing at University, I also took up coaching for the Knights Youth Team which was set up while I was at University and I found this thoroughly rewarding to pass on any knowledge I had and to see young people play the sport I love. I also played at Under 19 Level and Senior Level for the East Kilbride Pirates before injuries cut my playing career short unfortunately. I also coached the Edinburgh Napier Knights University Team and the Scotland Under 19 team which was created to get young Scottish players seen and, on the map, to be scouted for bigger and better things. During my time on the coaching staff we successfully ran training camps and played games against the NFL academy and Team North from Northern England. My time playing and coaching American Football was highly rewarding and something I enjoyed doing.

4. Tell us something about the Signet Library that our members might not know?

One thing about the Signet Library that members may be unaware of is the amazing discounts that you can get in the Colonnades café and on venue hire. Upon becoming a member you have access to a 15% discount on items at the Colonnades café and the fabulous afternoon tea. Also, members can take advantage of a discount on venue hire at the Signet Library. Some excellent benefits to being a member and using the wonderful space we have here. It is a real perk of being a member!