An independent consultant has been crowned the South East's 'Local Hero' in the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction Awards 2024.

Chloe Xidhas received her accolade at the ceremony on September 30, 2024.

The awards, organised by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB), honour exceptional individuals in the sector.

The event took place at Birmingham’s Burlington Hotel at the start of UK Construction Week.

It was hosted by the National Federation of Builders.

The ceremony aims to highlight female and non-binary role models in the industry, making them more visible to inspire others and demonstrate the sector's inclusivity.

Danny Clarke, the engagement director for England at CITB, said: "Congratulations to our award winners and to all of those who were shortlisted for the Top 100 Most Influential Women in Construction.

"We are delighted to recognise the incredible women and allies who are driving real change in the construction industry.

"The award ceremony and Top 100 shortlist celebrate the women that work at every level within the sector and their phenomenal achievements, while inspiring others and encouraging the next generation to pursue careers in this field.

"We are proud to showcase those who are leading in our industry and hope to see more even more applicants next year."

Richard Beresford, chief executive officer at the National Federation of Builders (NFB), added: "It was a privilege to attend the Top 100 Most Influential Awards event and celebrate the outstanding women and allies that have gone above and beyond this year.

"It is testament to the positive changes taking place in the industry and we must build on its success and continue to empower and support our women in construction."

The awards recognised exceptional women from nine different regions across the UK who are currently working at an operational or site level role in construction.

In addition to the 'Local Hero' category, the awards recognised other outstanding achievements in the construction industry.

The 'Women on the Tools' category was won by Nettie Taylor from Eliza Tay Lady Decorators, for her efforts to inspire the next generation of construction workers.

Sam May from WSP, Liz McDermott from QuickFix Profiles, and Carolyn Jay from Ringway Infrastructure Services took home the 'Influencer' awards for their considerable impact at an organisational or national level.

The 'Allies' category, which recognises people in the industry who are key influencers in supporting inclusion and change, had ten winners, including Alice Brookes from On the Tools and Tony O'Sullivan from CPI Mortars Ltd.

The 'One to Watch' award for industry newcomers leading the way in championing equality, diversity, inclusion and equity was won by Kynleigh Parker from Lovell Partnerships.