A Glasgow-based actress has secured more than £18,000 in compensation after enduring shocking race and sex discrimination at one of the city’s oldest bars.
Sky Sinclair, 35, took legal action after her former employer repeatedly made remarks about her appearance and background that left her feeling humiliated and uncomfortable.
Disturbing Workplace Remarks
Sinclair, who has blue eyes and blonde hair, was reportedly called “Aryan” by bar owner Ahmed Soliman.
On one occasion, he even asked, “How was Germany?” despite Sinclair having no connection to the country.
The employment tribunal heard that Soliman implied she was “racist or associated with Nazi ideology,” telling her she “liked white people better.”
Employment Judge Shona MacLean ruled that these comments violated Sinclair’s dignity and created a degrading, intimidating, and offensive work environment.
A Rising Star in Film
Sinclair, originally from Ayr, has appeared in numerous short films since 2016 and recently completed a leading role in the gothic fantasy feature film Zanni.
She joined The Old Toll Bar in Glasgow as a duty manager in July 2022, only to face ongoing discrimination that intensified over time.
Escalating Incidents at Work
In summer 2023, Soliman told Sinclair, “You look very Aryan with your blue eyes and blonde hair.”
Sinclair initially perceived it as a joke but felt uneasy and unsure how to respond.
A few months later, after bringing coffee for a colleague, Soliman reportedly said, “Oh yeah, I forgot you like white people better,” again followed by, “How was Germany?” The tribunal concluded that Sinclair interpreted the comments as implying association with Nazi ideology, leaving her feeling awkward and distressed.
Tensions Rise and Communication Breaks Down
In late 2023, Sinclair privately messaged Soliman about a comment he made in a staff group chat, describing it as threatening.
Soliman’s responses became increasingly distant, and he eventually ignored follow-ups, deleting messages and refusing to provide support.
A manager noted that Soliman appeared to hold a low regard for women who disagreed with him, adding to Sinclair’s anxiety.
Unfair Dismissal
Sinclair was dismissed in April 2024 after two years with the bar.
She was removed from the work group chat a month prior and told she was being fired for “poor sales performance,” despite evidence showing her performance was comparable to colleagues.
Judge MacLean found no evidence of misconduct, concluding that her dismissal was “unfair” and likely intended to prevent her from acquiring statutory employment rights.
Tribunal Decision
Judge MacLean awarded Sinclair £18,568 in compensation for race and sex discrimination and unfair dismissal.
She stated, “The race-related remarks were unsolicited. Mr Soliman appeared to derive satisfaction from her discomfort.
Even if that was not his purpose, it was reasonable to have that effect.”
A Multi-Talented Professional
Sky Sinclair trained at the UK Screen Acting Academy and holds additional qualifications as a primary school teacher and hypnotherapist.
Despite the ongoing case, she remained focused on her acting career, attending auditions and continuing her work in film and theater.