The National Federation of Builders Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards was held last week at Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham.
Siu Mun Li won the Southern Hero award and was named ‘Most Influential Woman in Construction 2023’. Siu comments;
“The NFB’s Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction awards ceremony was a truly spectacular event. It stands out as one of the best experiences I’ve ever had, not just because of the awards I received, but also because of the indescribable magical atmosphere. In that room, I felt an overwhelming sense of support and togetherness, a level of unity where you could practically feel the love.
“Winning the Southern Hero and Most Influential Overall awards at this event meant the world to me. It served as validation, reinforcing that my efforts are indeed making a positive impact on people and the industry I am passionate about. Danny Clarke and the NFB have cultivated such a supportive community, and I believe this legacy will continue to flourish as we invite others to join us on this incredible journey.”
The Top 100 aims to spotlight women and non-binary individuals in the industry, enhancing visibility and accessibility to role models. Building on last year’s success is crucial for fostering inclusivity and addressing the skills gap. Local women had been shortlisted in 4 categories:
Local Hero East – Helen Clements – Morgan Sindall
Ally – Clare Yelland-Friel – Friel and Construction Anglia
Influential Designer – Pippa Jacobs – Nicholas Jacobs Architects
Influential Client – Kat & Fiona Parsons – D&I ISS and All Female Build Project
On the night, Clare Yelland-Friel won the Ally category where she had been shortlisted with 6 other people from across the UK.
“When my name was called out I couldn’t believe it. There were so many amazing people in my category who have been making real positive changes in the industry. To be recognised at a national awards ceremony was mind-blowing.
“After last year’s awards where I won the Local Hero East, I have been lucky enough to be part of a bigger construction community. The people that I met have played a key role in my life since we have a strong and supportive community and I cannot wait to see what the next year brings.”
Helen Clements, who won Local Hero East, comments;
“Firstly, I was humbled to be recognised for doing what I have a passion for and then when it had sunk in, I was super proud of myself. I have been lucky throughout my career in construction to have been championed, supported, and enabled to be successful. Receiving this award has given me the opportunity to raise awareness that our industry is a fab place to have a career and that the whole industry needs to shout about this.”
Kat and Fiona Parsons, who are heading up an all-female build team, won the Influential Client Award. Fiona comments;
“Incredibly proud and humbled that my wife Kat Parsons and I won the Most Influential Client Award for our All Female Design & Build Project. The aim of our project is to showcase the talented women working in the construction industry and highlight the gender balance issues that exist.
“How fantastic, therefore, to be in a huge roomful of brilliant and inspiring women that work in the construction industry, leading the way, pushing the boundaries, and making change happen in so many different ways.”
The Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction list included more local women getting industry recognition including Pippa Jacobs, Sasha Bainbridge, Charlotte Hyams-Winger, Carly Hughes and many more.
The NFB has a Legacy programme that helps to support individuals to develop the skills necessary to make the change and lead our industry in the years to come, showcasing what’s possible for people within our wonderful industry.
Congratulations to the nominees and winners for their remarkable accomplishments in the sector. View the official brochure here.