Alice Shimali

Said the following about Polly McGillivray:

“It gives me great confidence that the next generation of train drivers are learning under Polly McGillivray. She is not just an impeccable teacher, but an all-round brilliant person who is dedicated to excellence and strives for it in everything she does.

Polly has helped to bring a new cohort of drivers into the industry that better-reflect the communities they are transporting. This is helping to create a more inclusive workforce that wants to collaborate and is always striving for better.

Alongside this hugely important role, in recent months Polly has also taken on additional work to demonstrate the company's commitment to a more reflective workforce by participating in various media opportunities and outreach, including work with BBC radio and television, London Live, regional media and LGBT press.

This has had an incredible impact. Increasing the number of women applying for driver roles, and roles across the industry, is a key focus for GTR, with Polly helping to change the tide - the intake for female driver trainees on Southern for 2018 is set to hit 30% - unheard of in this industry.

Polly's hard work was recently recognised more formally, specifically for her tireless efforts in diversity, inclusion and body confidence, both within the business and beyond. The accolade came at GTR's annual Excellence Awards when she was named the manager's 'Winner of Winners' as part of an event which celebrates colleagues that go above and beyond.

Overall, her personality, adaptability and willingness to get stuck in are difficult to beat. Polly is a very special person to work with, always offering support and humour, acting as a real shining light to guide the next generation of the industry.“

Laura McDonald

Said the following about Polly McGillivray:

“I have nominated Polly, because she was the one that first introduced the idea of even becoming a train driver - and it's thanks to her that I am here. Polly was not my principle trainer when in the training school, but has always been there to encourage and support me throughout.

I still visit the training school on a regular basis to ask her about the traction of the 377! She's the guru!“