With the percentage of women graduates in engineering still below 20% in many countries on the continent, and the number of women actively employed in the construction sector being much lower, it has become vitally important for both government and business to support and drive transformation in the housing and construction sector.
In celebration of these women who work in the construction industry, the annual Women In Construction Awards – now in its fourth year – highlights individuals who have played a vital role in the construction industry.
The Women In Construction Awards cocktail evening takes place on 10 May 2016 and is co-located with the 2016 African Construction and Totally Concrete Expo at the Gallagher Convention Centre, Johannesburg, South Africa.
The awards categories recognise women who are “Pioneers in Innovation” within the built environment, as well as identifying women under 30, who are have been identified as the ones “to watch”, as they get a foothold within their sector.
As one of the fastest growing sectors in South Africa and the continent, the opportunities for women to engage in the housing and construction industry is growing year-on-year and it vitally important for government and business to support this. For this reason, the Women In Construction Awards also acknowledge organisations which have stepped up and developed women’s roles through innovative training programmes, as well showing their commitment to developing the careers of women in the industry.
This year’s awards celebration will be attended by senior-level executives, key decision-makers and suppliers, within the construction, cement and concrete industry.
According to Elsie Snyman – construction industry market intelligence analyst – the construction industry is not only a major contributor to GDP, it is also an important vehicle and stimulus for economic growth and a catalyst for job creation. It is not only the fastest growing economic sector in South Africa, it is also an economic ripple effect, as well as aiding socio-economic development.
Obert Chakarisa, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the Women in Construction Awards partner, South African Institute of Architects (SAIA) says, “With the advent of democracy in 1994, the incoming government underpinned the importance of ensuring that all professions are opened up for participation by previously marginalised groupings. The architectural profession is amongst those that have lagged behind in terms of implementing real tangible transformation gains. The focus on women in architecture has become such a critical driver in ensuring that the national imperatives related to transformation, and in particular where it relates to women, are realised in the profession”
Manana Khotseng, 2015 Women in Construction award winner of the “Pioneer in Innovation” award and Director of Rehauwe Construction and Development says, “As a woman in construction there’s a lot of challenges and to be given a platform to be recognised for the innovative difference you have made is great.”
Awards being announced on the evening include Pioneer of Innovation Award, New Starter of the year (Under 30), Most Innovative Women Training Programme and Excellence in Career Development.
Individuals or organisations interested in learning more about the Women in Construction awards, as well as the partners of this prestigious event, can do so on www.womeninconstruction.co.za. Any questions on the awards can be directed at the Project Director of the Women in Construction Awards, Athi Myoli at athi.myoli@womeninconstruction.co.za
