An Ipswich businesswoman said she was in shock when her name was announced as the winner of a prestigious construction award.
Clare Yelland-Friel took home the ‘Influencer’ award at the Design and Build UK Women in Construction Awards.
Mrs Yelland-Friel runs Friel Consulting, Construction Anglia, and Friel Marketing, which all provide services to the construction industry.
The ‘Influencer’ award recognises women who use their social media to push for a better and more inclusive construction industry.
The event was organised by Michaela Wain, a finalist in the 2017 series of The Apprentice, and aimed to celebrate women's achievements in the construction industry.
Ms Wain said: “The event was created to give women a platform to showcase the brilliant work they do in our wonderful industry.
“We have to highlight the positives and make companies aware that having a diverse team is proven throughout all industries throughout the world to increase bottom line profits. If businesses aren’t paying attention to this, then they’re doing themselves out of money.
“Women have to stick together, we are stronger when we work together, and that’s ultimately the only way we will produce an inclusive work place.
"Clare is an amazing example of someone who deserves all spotlights on her for the work she is doing and the voice she also provides women in construction”
READ MORE: Top 100 most influential nod for Ipswich businesswoman
Mrs Yelland-Friel, who has also been nominated for the Top 100 Influential Women in Construction award for the second year in a row, said: “When Michaela called me to tell me I had been shortlisted in the 'Influencer' category, I nearly fell off my chair.
“On Friday, I went up to London for the ceremony and was in shock when my name was announced as the winner.
“It was overwhelming to be recognised on a national level for the work that I do”
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