My Yorkshire: Jurga Zilinskiene, CEO of language services company Guildhawk

Jurga Zilinskiene is CEO and founder of award-winning language services company Guildhawk. Originally established in London in 2001, Guildhawk opened its Yorkshire office in 2017.

Where do you live/where are you from?

I’m originally from Kaunas in Lithuania, though I’ve been living in London for over 20 years.

What is your favourite place to visit in Yorkshire and why?

Definitely Whitby. For obvious reasons. It’s such a beautiful place.

What is still on your “to do” list in the region?

We once took a trip from Appleby to Leeds; a train journey right through the moors. I’d love to do that again, and stop along the way to actually get out into the stunning nature in that area.

What is the most memorable meal you’ve ever had in Yorkshire?

I’d have to say the Sunday roast of a lifetime. My wedding meal at Oulton Hall.

What is your most Yorkshire trait?

I am a total straight talker! No beating around the bush. I really appreciate someone who just gets to the point, and I’ve experienced quite a bit of that in Yorkshire!

Favourite piece of trivia about the region?

Montague Burton, a man who has had a great influence on me and how I approach my business, launched his business (Burton Menswear) from Yorkshire. He comes from the same part of Lithuania as I do, and my husband, David, and I often joke about how his mother worked for Montague Burton, and now David works for me. The Yorkshire/Lithuania connection continues…

What is your favourite cultural icon to come out of Yorkshire?

It has to be Dracula. Bram Stoker was apparently inspired greatly by Whitby Abbey while staying in the area, and found his character’s name in a historical text in the local public library.

Worst experience or thing about Yorkshire?

My daughter has been living in Sheffield for years now, rather than in London. So if I begrudge Yorkshire anything, it’s that.

What is one thing you’d steal from Lancashire (or other UK regions) if you could?

We’ve already stolen some of our team from Lancashire and elsewhere, I’m afraid. And they absolutely cannot have them back!

What is the most overrated thing about Yorkshire?

I’d have to say the weather. I’m constantly being warned about the cold in Yorkshire, and to bring my winter coat. It always seems to be sunny whenever I’m here. These tales of wintry gales seem pretty overblown to me!