Construction Futures was delighted to attend and play a part in this year’s Social Enterprise Northern Ireland Awards, held on Friday 23rd October at the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Belfast.
The annual awards night is held to recognise and celebrate the outstanding work of social enterprises, individuals and teams across the third sector who are driving positive change and championing communities across Northern Ireland.
Representing Construction Futures on the night were Fionnuala McKenna, Head of Strategic Development, and Jenni Marshall, Programme & Engagement Manager.
Highlighting Emerging Leaders: Young Person of the Year
As passionate supporters of social value, youth development and championing the next generation of talent, we were delighted to sponsor the Young Person of the Year Award, a category that shines a spotlight on the emerging leaders who are making a positive impact in their communities and shaping a more inclusive and socially conscious future.
Fionnuala had the honour of presenting this year's award to very deserving winner, Sophie Bagchus from Carrickfergus Enterprise. Sophie is an inspiring young entrepreneurial marketer who is passionate about championing local businesses, developing marketing campaigns and sharing her skills with others, helping Carrickfergus Enterprise reach more people across their community. Well done Sophie!
Fionnuala also had the pleasure of adjudicating three award categories ahead of the awards evening, playing an important part in celebrating the incredible work of organisations and individuals doing valuable work in Northern Ireland, ensuring they are recognised for the positive impact they continue to make in their communities.
Championing Social Value in Construction
The awards night also celebrated the achievements of Construction Employers Federation (CEF) member, Heron Bros, who took home the Social Value Partnership of the Year Award for the second year in a row, for their partnership with Cancer Focus NI, CAN and WOMEN’STEC. This achievement is a testament to the positive social impact that construction can have beyond the site and into local communities.
Our Commitment to Supporting Social Enterprise
For Construction Futures, supporting the Social Enterprise NI Awards reflects our ongoing dedication to nurturing young talent, fostering opportunity and championing those who work tirelessly to improve lives and strengthen communities. Celebrating the next generation of social leaders aligns closely with our mission to inspire, empower and connect young people with pathways that create long-term positive change.
We'd like to thank Lynn Carvill MBE from WOMEN’STEC, Elita Frid from MEGA- Manufacturing & Engineering Growth & Advancement and David Fry of Construction Employers Federation (CEF) for attending with us to join in celebrating the wonderful achievements of Northern Ireland's Social Enterprise sector.
We extend our warmest congratulations to all nominees, finalists and winners from this year’s awards, and a big thank you to Social Enterprise Northern Ireland (SENI) who hosted a brilliantly impactful and fulfilling evening. Construction Futures is already looking forward to supporting the 2027 Young Person of the Year Award and continuing to shine a light on the inspiring young people who are shaping Northern Ireland’s future.