The DIIC Podcast is your go-to space for real conversations about diversity and inclusion in the construction and built environment. We shine a light on the experiences of women, people with disabilities, and ethnic minorities, tackling the challenges they face and celebrating the progress being made. From industry insights to personal stories, we’re here to spark discussions, break down barriers, and drive change. Whether you're in the sector or just passionate about making it more inclusiv ...
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DIIC | Faith Abudu Podcasts
In this episode, Ben Campbell - from Wealden Rehab shares the journey behind launching the CareSpaces brand in 2022, which focuses on installing essential care equipment for disabled people. Ben explains the importance of Changing Places toilets, detailing their key requirements such as a minimum 12 square metre space and specialist features like h…
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In this episode, Faith Abudu sits down with Karen Robinson, founder of Ruby Red Interiors and a finalist for the Can Women in Business Award. Karen shares her inspiring journey from a career in television to launching her own interior design business in 2009 - right in the midst of the economic crash. She opens up about the early challenges of buil…
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In this episode, Faith Abudu sits down with Martin McLean, Director of Specialism at Waterfront UTC, to explore the hands-on, technical education that UTCs (University Technical Colleges) provide. With a strong focus on construction, engineering, and design, Martin explains how students can study at levels equivalent to GCSEs, A-levels, BTECs and T…
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Mollie Gallagher - MEP Quantity Surveyor at Evaluation Consultants Ltd
33:16
33:16
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33:16At just 26, Molly Gallagher is making waves as a Quantity Surveyor in mechanical & electrical services — despite starting with no construction subjects at school and living with dyslexia. In her chat with Faith Abudu, she breaks down the differences between contracting and consultancy QS roles, and why consultancy gave her access to niche sectors s…
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Abena Akuffo-Kelly FRSA - Former Mayor of Folkestone
1:00:17
1:00:17
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1:00:17In this episode, we sit down with Abena Akuffo-Kelly FRSA – a speaker, mentor, coach, and a champion of inclusive leadership. Former Mayor of Folkestone (2024–25) and Chair of Folkestone & Hythe District Council (2023–24), Abena brings a unique blend of public service, education, and advocacy to everything she does. We explore her work in diversity…
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In this episode, we’re joined by Kat, a Chartered Environmentalist and Chartered Resource and Waste Management Consultant with over 17 years’ experience. Kat has worked across the UK and Ireland specialising in waste and resource management for major urban regeneration projects. She shares insights from her career journey, from starting at Veolia a…
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In this episode, Faith Abudu sits down with Mel, a dynamic entrepreneur who shares her inspiring journey from the Philippines to the UK, where she co-founded KPO Architecture and Martello Building Consultancy. They delve into the power of networking, the value of outsourcing architectural services to the Philippines, and how this approach offers sm…
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In this episode, Faith Abudu is joined by Ellie Farlow, a project manager at G4C Kent Club, to explore the concept of the "next gen" in construction – defined as professionals with up to ten years of experience. They discuss the vital role of Constructing Excellence in driving best practices and creating opportunities for networking and collaborati…
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Naureen Ullah - Chair of Women in Social Housing (WISH) South East
54:24
54:24
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54:24In this episode, we sit down with Naureen Ullah, a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the housing sector. As the Partnerships Manager at SEC, Chair of Women in Social Housing (WISH) South East, and a dedicated Mentor for the Housing Diversity Network, Naureen shares her insights on driving positive change in the industry. We discuss…
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Building a Better Future: Greg McKenzie from AW Group on Sustainability and Social Value
55:24
55:24
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55:24In this episode, we’re joined by Greg McKenzie from AW Group, a growing rail and construction company, to discuss their commitment to sustainability and social value. Greg shares the challenges they face in implementing social value initiatives, particularly in fast-paced projects with complex logistics. Despite these hurdles, AW Group has achieved…
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Lucy Druesne - Chief Contracts & Policy Officer
28:48
28:48
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28:48In this inaugural episode of the DIIC podcast, host Faith Abudu welcomes Lucy Druesne, a dual national from France and the UK, to share her inspiring career journey from project management to leading the Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP) for Kent and Medway. Lucy sheds light on the pressing challenges faced by small and medium-sized enterprises …
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