Architect Abby-Jane is outstanding regional property student

The 24-year-old from Cheadle Hulme came top in the North West final of the awards which encourage girls and young women to enter the property and construction industry.

Abby-Jane, who is studying BSc Architecture and won £300 and a trophy, was described as an ‘inspirational student’ by her peers and tutors and the strongest performer in front of a judging panel of industry experts, where finalists were questioned on coursework and topical industry issues.  

She said: "I’m very thankful to Women in Property for the regional Student Award. Being recognised for all the hard work I put in is appreciated, when you enjoy what you do it comes naturally and to meet so many like-minded women was inspiring."

Industry links 

The competition is sponsored by Bouygues UK, Linden Homes and Cushman & Wakefield and aims to highlight the important links between industry and universities. Many students secure work placements as a direct result of competing in the Awards, which often translate into permanent positions upon graduation.

Sasha Wayne, of Mersey Gateway Crossings Board and Chairman of the North West Branch of WiP, said: "Abby has done incredibly well to win the regional Award and is a very worthy winner. She is an inspirational student and the North West branch is delighted she will be representing this region at the national final in September.  

"The industry is crying out for more young people to come on board.  Despite the skills shortage, careers in property and construction are still largely forgotten, particularly for young women, when looking ahead past their GCSEs.  We are calling upon schools – and parents – to remember the amazing opportunities offered by this industry, when they are giving careers advice.”

Claridge's 

The regional judging panel included representatives from different industry disciplines, with Sasha, Caroline Baker, Director of UK Consulting at Cushman & Wakefield; Debra Wilson, Operations Director at Nodus Solutions; Jennifer Winyard, Strategic Land Planning Manager at Linden Homes and Joe Webb, Business Development Director at Thomas Vale (part of Bouygues Group).

The national final will be held at Claridge’s in London on Wednesday 21st September when students from across the UK compete for the National Student Award trophy.