Trailblazers
Robyn Freestone Isn’t Just Pouring Pints, She’s Shaping the Island’s Nightlife
At just 24, Robyn Freestone has already transformed more than one corner of the Isle of Man’s nightlife. From serving her first drinks at 1886 to managing some of Douglas’s most vibrant venues, she has consistently done more than pour pints: she has built community, fostered creativity and made space for others to shine.
Her reputation as a dynamic force in hospitality and music promotion has earned her a well-deserved place among the 2025 Gef 30 Under 30 Boston Multi Family Office Trailblazers.
Hospitality with Heart
Robyn’s career in hospitality began at 1886, where she worked as part of the original bar team. But the real roots of her confidence and charisma were planted long before, while growing up in a hotel in The Gambia.
‘That’s where I originally gained my people skills,’ she recalls. ‘It taught me so much and gave me the confidence I needed to succeed.’
From 1886, she moved into a role that involved not just bar work and waitressing but also event planning and set-up. It was a glimpse into the world of creating experiences, not just serving drinks. That, she says, is what truly lit the spark.
‘I realised how much joy there is in being the reason someone has an amazing night,’ she says. ‘It became about so much more than the drink in their hand.’
Creating Space for Everyone
Her next big step was at The Bridge, a venue she helped transform from a traditional local pub into a thriving, inclusive space for all ages. ‘At the time, it was basically an old man’s pub,’ Robyn laughs. ‘But I was given creative freedom and brought in a completely new vibe.’
That vibe included more than just cocktails and playlists. Robyn invited her DJ and musician friends to perform, turned the pub into a live music venue and even stepped behind the decks herself. What followed was the rise of a true community space: intimate, vibrant and unapologetically creative.
‘I created a safe and welcoming space, not just for the public, but for local talent to perform without pressure,’ she explains. ‘People of all ages could come along, enjoy good vibes and make memories. That’s what made The Bridge so special.’
Now, Robyn is focused on bringing her signature energy to new stages, with plans to elevate local nightlife and continue creating unforgettable experiences across the island.
More Than Just a Bar Job
Robyn is quick to correct the common misconception that hospitality is just about ‘pulling pints’. ‘You have a genuine impact on people’s lives,’ she says. ‘You gain insight into who they are, and sometimes they open up to you in a way they wouldn’t to someone they know.’
It’s this emotional intelligence, combined with sharp intuition and creative drive, that sets Robyn apart. She knows the value of listening, empathising and showing up for others whether in the bar or behind the scenes.
Being young and ‘five foot nothing’, as she puts it, has not always worked in Robyn’s favour. She has faced dismissiveness from customers and has had to work harder to be taken seriously. But she didn’t let that stop her.
‘I’ve learnt to stand up for myself and be assertive, while still showing empathy,’ she says. ‘Confidence and knowing the law are powerful tools.’
Advice to Live By
Two pieces of advice have stuck with Robyn and shaped her journey. The first: ‘Be yourself. Authenticity matters, especially today. At the start of 2024, I decided to fully embrace who I am, and it led me to the best place I’ve ever been, surrounded by amazing people.’
The second: ‘You are who you surround yourself with. In your twenties, when you’re full of ideas and ambition, the people around you can make or break your journey. I’m lucky to have people who celebrate me and push me to be better.’
Looking Ahead
This summer is set to be a defining moment. Robyn is taking her event management and DJing to the next level with performances at festivals and venues across the Isle of Man, including Full Moon Festival. ‘Music is a big focus now. I’m excited to see where it takes me.’
Robyn wants to see more young people given the chance to speak up and bring their ideas to life. ‘Young people are so much more intelligent and capable than they’re often given credit for,’ she says. ‘That’s why things like Gef 30 Under 30 matter. They give us a platform.’
She also believes the Isle of Man is full of potential and worth staying on or returning to. ‘It’s safe, beautiful and full of opportunity. If people keep pushing creative ideas, we can put the island back on the map.’
A Win That Means Everything
Winning a Gef 30 Under 30 award has meant the world to Robyn. It’s proof, she says, that being true to herself pays off.
‘I’ve shown that by being 100 percent myself, I can change not only my own life but others lives too. It’s also a reflection of how much love and support I’ve had from friends, family and even strangers. I’ll always be grateful for that. The younger generation will change this island, and platforms like this are where that starts.’
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