Rebecca Lovelace from Building People – an online hub that connects people from under-represented groups to career opportunities in construction – won the EDI category at last year’s CIOB Awards. She tells CM how winning the award has made a difference to her career
What was your reaction on winning the award?
I was thrilled to bits. It was a huge shot of energy and confidence for me. I have been in the sector for over 20 years, seeking to help people from diverse and under-represented backgrounds get into this industry and then support them in their career – but this is the first time I have had any serious recognition.
And, coming from CIOB, it means a lot – the institute commands so much respect around the industry for its work on people issues and it is one of the few professional bodies which employs an EDI lead. So now I feel I have a genuine stamp of approval.
How has winning the award helped your business?
It has opened doors, undoubtedly, and given more credibility to Building People and all that we are seeking to achieve in delivering a hub for equity, diversity and inclusion in the built environment. I have had so many people congratulate me on winning – it really is a highly recognised and valued award. And such an honour to be the inaugural winner!
Building People has a network of 60 organisations that provide careers support to diverse and under-represented audiences. One of our goals is to significantly grow this network, amplifying voices and enabling collaboration. The recognition I have gained from winning the award has certainly helped in broadcasting our offer.
A key aim for 2023 is to get more support from the whole value chain – clients, contractors, suppliers. The conversation I have with them is different since winning the award because I have that extra credibility. Even the award logo in the email footer makes a difference. We are looking for leaders to drive EDI across the built environment – at a time when the industry needs to become more representative of the communities it serves – and I’m optimistic the CIOB recognition and validation will be a big help.
What you would say to encourage other people who are thinking of entering?
Do it. By entering, if nothing else, it gives you a reason to highlight and promote all the great work that you are doing and present it to a panel of judges who are themselves highly esteemed, experienced and connected individuals. So, it gets you noticed by people who matter. And then, if you get shortlisted and go to the awards night itself, your exposure increases even further. It’s good fun too!
Entries are being accepted for the 2023 CIOB Awards until 17 March.
