The 2018 Women in Property National Student Awards have been won by Sheffield Hallam Real Estate student Katie McManus. She competed against 13 other student finalists from across the UK, in the competition which seeks to find the property and construction industry’s future stars.
The National Student Awards are now in their twelfth year, in which time over 1,000 students have been through the Awards programme, which explores their course work, challenges their wider industry knowledge and encourages them to hone and develop their interpersonal skills. This year has seen the highest ever number of contenders, with 132 students nominated by their lecturers, representing 58 Universities.
The Awards recognise the talent available to the industry, while students are still studying. They aim to highlight to industry the necessity to link with Universities early in the education process and also improve the students’ knowledge of the career options available to them. Many secure work placements as a direct result of competing in the Awards, which often translate into permanent positions upon graduation.
Katie was described by the judges as “…engaging, personable, a great sense of humour, very down to earth, she showed she really believes in the organisation she’s working with, definitely someone we’d like on our team.”
She was presented with her award by Jo Williams, National Chairman of Women in Property, who said: “I believe that success comes through maximising personal development and opportunity. Katie has demonstrated this over the past few months, seizing the opportunity, inspiring the judges and culminating in winning the national prize. Well done Katie and many congratulations to our 13 other finalists, all of whom did so well to reach the National Student Awards Final. We have no doubt you will see great success in your future careers.”
Katie McManus said, “I’m shocked and honoured to be win the national award! I’ve learnt so much throughout the process, about myself as well as exploring the issues surrounding gender in the property industry. I hope that throughout my career I see change and, in some way, contribute to it and I’m proud to be an ambassador for Women in Property 2018. I’d like to thank the organisation sponsors and Sheffield Hallam University for their support.”
Women in Property is grateful to the support of three national sponsors, Bouygues UK, Linden Homes and Savills, who have not only sponsored the Awards but also offered work placements to some of the regional finalists.
Hannah Pattinson, Linden Homes’ strategic land regional director for the Eastern region who was on the judging panel said, “Our support for Women in Property’s National Student Awards demonstrates our ongoing commitment as a company to encourage more women into the industry. There is a diverse range of opportunities for women both on and off site within the market place and it has been fantastic to see more women enthused about joining the housebuilding sector. Throughout the judging process, these students have impressed in terms of their existing knowledge of the industry as well as the ideas and passion they have shown. Linden Homes wish each and every one of the students the best of luck with a prosperous career in the industry.”
Katie won £700 and a year’s membership of Women in Property. All the participants benefit from an increased profile and visibility among some of the industry’s top companies.
