25th October 2024 | IN CONSTRUCTION | BY SBID Share Tweet Pinterest LinkedIn On 9th October, Gaggenau hosted a highly successful women’s networking evening alongside Athena Stonecare where attendance far exceeded expectations. The event provided a fantastic opportunity for women from construction and design industry to come together, share experiences and build connections. It was inspiring to see attendees build new connections and catch up with existing contacts creating a mix of opportunities and enhanced networking. A highlight of the event was series of speeches given by: – Rachel Sargeant, Head of Projects, Gaggenau – Sharon Wallis, Managing Director, Poggenpohl – Beverley Walker, Head of Sales and Operations, Houseworks London – Becca Cranfield Director, Athena Stonecare Photography: Patricia Rayner Each one of them shared their personal stories on how they managed to thrive in male dominated industries and offered powerful insight on leadership and overcoming unique challenges women face in their respective fields. Their insights on leadership and navigating challenges were both empowering and motivational. Photography: Patricia Rayner “My initial plan was to organise event dedicated to honouring and promoting Women in Construction and Design Industry. The goal was to create a platform where women in these fields could connect, establish valuable connections and network. This idea stemmed from the fact that women currently only represent 14% of the construction industry. Reflecting on my own past as a female apprentice in a time when it was rare to see women on construction sites, I realised that there is a lack of substantial support for women in this industry.” – Rachel Sargeant Photography: Patricia Rayner Rachel and Becca from Athena Stonecare (an expert in networking) together with the Gaggenau team planned an evening event in hope of generating some interest. The response was overwhelming with the event reaching full capacity just days after invitations were sent. About Gaggenau Gaggenau is a manufacturer of high-quality home appliances and is acknowledged as an innovation leader in design and technology “Made in Germany”. The company, with a history dating back to 1683, has revolutionised the domestic kitchen with its internationally acclaimed products. Gaggenau’s success is founded on technological innovation and a clear design language combined with high functionality. Gaggenau has been a subsidiary of BSH Hausgeräte GmbH in Munich since 1995 and is currently represented in more than 50 countries with 25 flagship showrooms in major cities around the world. Visit Profile If you’d like to feature your news or stories on SBID.org, get in touch to find out more. If you’d like to become SBID Accredited, click here for more information.