We are delighted that Athena Stonecare Director Becca has been appointed as Co-Chair of Women in Natural Stone.
Women in Natural Stone (WINS) was formed to create an opportunity for women within the natural stone industry and wider architectural and construction sectors to connect. The group also aims to encourage the next generation of women into a career in stone.
WINS launched at the Landscape Show in 2021 and attracted great enthusiasm and support from across the industry. Now supported by The Stone Federation of Great Britain, the group is aiming to make a big impact for women in the industry.
Membership to WINS is free for anyone who works in or with the stone industry. It is not exclusively for Stone Federation members and is not specific to any role or experience in the sector. Importantly WINS wants to encourage anyone who is starting their journey in stone. Whether you are a stone mason, working in accounts or as a marketing professional you are invited to join.
In a recent article for Stone Specialist Becca commented: “This isn’t a group of women getting together to bemoan or begrudge being in a male dominated sector. It’s about getting together to make our lives a bit easier. When I was brand new to this industry I would have loved to be able to meet Tamsin (WINS Co-Chair and Director of Szerelmy) and ask her for her advice. As a woman, it’s easy to pick up the phone to another woman and say let’s have a cup of coffee. Women quite naturally collaborate very well. The point of a women-focussed group is that it’s needed.”
As a company, Athena Stonecare is a huge believer in the power of collaboration. We work closely with stone suppliers to provide ongoing maintenance and restoration services. We are also always happy to help our clients by recommending companies that can provide services that we don’t offer. There is nothing more satisfying than being able to help a client. Even if that doesn’t involve directly providing services. That is why building a network within the stone industry is so vital.
As a husband and wife team, Athena Stonecare is proud to have a female lead in the company and supporting women in the industry is something that we are passionate about. Becca is looking forward to create a mentoring program through WINS that will support other women entering into a career in stone.
The group kick started their activities with a networking event in June which had over 70 attendees. The women who attended were from companies of all sizes and at various stages in their career. Bringing together the experience of Directors in large stone suppliers alongside stone masons starting their career, will help to strengthen the stone industry and build a future for the sector.
The next step for WINS will see Becca and the team head to the Landscape Show. The 29th September is a day dedicated to women in the industry. Becca will be taking part in a panel discussion and will be meeting with members throughout the day too. WINS are looking to hold regular networking events throughout the year too.
You can join the conversations via the LinkedIn group. To become a part of the group and keep up to date with the activities, please email Sara from Stone Federation.
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