WHEN a very shy 15-year-old Lana Bignell nervously approached Malie Tambling, owner of El Burro Cantina, for a job she never dreamed that six years later she’d be managing the busy restaurant.
“Mum told me it was time to get a job and learn the realities of the world,” she recalled.
“I went through all the shops on Gallery Walk handing out my resume in a pencil skirt and heels and no one took me.”
It was a chance meeting with Malie and a push from her mum that finally got her an interview and a job that would transform her life.
“I was really nervous and shy and trying to connect with people around my age was a big step,” she said.
“Slowly but surely Malie and Marcus helped build my confidence a lot. Marlie was a role model, she was confident with the customers.”
“Without El Burro I’d still be this shy girl not knowing what to do with life.”
Lana began as a dishwasher, as well as on the floor, which gave her an appreciation for the front of house and back of a restaurant.
In May 2024, after six years working at the restaurant, Malie and Marcus offered her the managerial position.
“I was really excited. It was flattering to be asked. I felt like this was my time for growth. I worry if I don’t keep moving I won’t mature,” Lana explained.
In between managing the restaurant, she is studying psychology at Griffith University and is looking forward to graduating in a couple of years and working with young children.
“It feels good she said to be managing a restaurant at just 21. I have gained so many skills. I’m a lot more confident and able to stand my ground and respect my boundaries,” Lana beamed.
