How do you describe your job?
Very interesting, I’m focused on delivering the best industry practices to our clients across the Middle East. My job is to act as a focal point for programme construction enhancements. I also ensure the people I work with are receiving the training they need to provide the best service for our clients.

Where are you originally from?
I'm Bengali by origin, I was raised in the UAE, however London is home for me as I have spent most of my professional life in various parts of the UK.

How long have you been with WSP? In the region?
I joined WSP in the Middle East in 2014 and have been in the industry for over 12 years.

What made you choose engineering?
I always had an interest in physics, maths and Lego! When I was a child I would make ‘cement’ out of mud and water and build ‘bridges’ across storm water drains.
My inspirations were my Grandfather who was a civil engineering project manager, and my father, a successful electrical engineer and a genius in maths!
Getting into civil engineering was not a common choice for girls, so I believe it was possible because of my parents unfaltering support that I was able to do this. When I joined one of the UK’s largest contractors, my interviewer reminded me that it was not easy for women. I wanted to prove them wrong and I have never looked back since!

What are you passionate about?
I’m passionate about developing infrastructure to support communities and seeing the physical changes that improve lives, allowing those communities to thrive. I have always looked to develop myself both professionally and personally and that draws me to the principles of lean construction, innovation and operational efficiencies.

How do you like to spend your non-work time?
I love spending quality time with my family and I’m also happy when I am outside in nature. Besides cycling, running and badminton I also try to give back through charity work.

Are you involved / have you been involved in any innovative / future ready work – tell us briefly about it.
Yes! The core of my current role is around innovation and future ready works.I have helped to implement lean construction methods into many of our key projects across the region, the Lean Construction Institute seeks to improve the Construction and Design industries through refined approaches to project design and delivery.

What are your thoughts on gender balance? In the industry?
There is always room for improvement with gender diversity in our industry. An image change could improve and attract more diversity of gender, age and culture. We as individuals play a role in how this image is portrayed, via our way of working, interactions and support for colleagues alongside the encouragement and mentoring we can offer to young people.