In conversation with Usamah Iqbal, Pegasus Group

For South Asian Heritage Month (SAHM), PREACH Inclusion is proud to spotlight voices from South Asian trailblazers in the built environment sector. This year's theme, 'Roots to Routes', invites us to explore the journeys – both literal and metaphorical – that shape our identities and aspirations. It’s about tracing where we come from and how those origins influence the paths we forge.

In this SAHM edition of our In Conversation With series, we speak to Usamah Iqbal, Senior Planner at Pegasus Group – one of PREACH Inclusion’s corporate partners. Usamah’s story is one of rootedness and reinvention, from his family’s migration story and community ties in Edinburgh, through to his role as a young planner in shaping Scotland’s built environment and advocating for representation in planning.

Through his lived experience and commitment to inclusion, Usamah reflects not just on where he comes from, but where he’s headed, and how he's helping to make space for others to do the same.

Grab a chai and dive in!

Growing Up in Leith, Edinburgh

Usamah’s story is shaped by roots that cross borders.

“My dad was born in the Punjab region of Pakistan and moved to the UK, where he married my mum, a Muslim woman from Coventry,” he shares. “We eventually settled in Leith, Edinburgh when I was young, and that’s where I grew up.”

His childhood in Leith was defined by close-knit connections. “I had the same friendship groups from nursery right through to university, and that continuity gave me a strong sense of community… We were a mixed bunch in school – Scottish, Pakistani, Eastern European – and that diversity shaped how I see the world.”

Usamah initially studied Architectural Technology at Edinburgh Napier University. “I loved watching the National Geographic channel, fascinated by skyscrapers, urban megaprojects and how cities came together. That course seemed like the perfect fit. But by third year, something felt off. I realised I wasn’t a technical person. I was more interested in people than the technical side. I finished the degree, but I felt lost.”

Usamah as a child with his father.

“In South Asian families, you’re expected to earn and settle down quickly. But I had to go against the grain. I needed to follow what felt right.” It was at a careers fair where he met Caroline Brown – now Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Scotland Director – who provided some great advice and insight on the course. “She was incredibly supportive and she’s still in my network now. It was one of those full-circle moments.”

— Usamah Iqbal

Usamah with Caroline Brown, RTPI Scotland Director.

After graduating, he took time out to reflect, working in retail and at his father’s shop. “Those years taught me a lot about patience and communication.”

A planning module from his architecture degree stuck with him. “I loved the idea of sustainable development through planning, balancing social needs with spatial design.” That memory became a turning point. “Two years later, I decided to go back to university to study Urban Planning and Property Development at Heriot-Watt.”

The decision wasn’t easy. “In South Asian families, you’re expected to earn and settle down quickly. But I had to go against the grain. I needed to follow what felt right.” It was at a careers fair where he met Caroline Brown – now Royal Town Planning Institute (RTPI) Scotland Director – who provided some great advice and insight on the course. “She was incredibly supportive and she’s still in my network now. It was one of those full-circle moments.”

From Graduate to Senior Planner at Pegasus

Usamah joined Pegasus as their first graduate planner in Scotland, at a time when the market was tough. “I wasn’t just the first graduate planner; I was one of the first employees in their Scotland office. That trust meant a lot. It was a tough market, and Pegasus gave me my first proper breakthrough.”

Three and a half years on, he’s now a Senior Planner and Chartered Town Planner. “I specialise in everything from feasibility studies and planning consents, right through to appeals,” he explains. “I’ve worked across renewable energy, residential, commercial and agricultural sectors. Each project brings new challenges – and I’m still learning every day.”

Having started in architecture, Usamah brings a unique lens to planning: “It’s helped me understand constraints and opportunities more intuitively – I can visualise space with people in mind.”

The Importance of Diversity in Planning

Usamah’s heritage informs the way he works: “Planning is all about people, so diversity and inclusion aren’t optional, they’re integral. Especially when you’re having conversations with communities.”

Working in renewable energy across Scotland, he’s often one of very few ethnic minority professionals at public events. “I’m aware of how I’m perceived, but I use it as a strength, it helps me build rapport and trust.”

He reflects on a mosque development led by colleagues in Birmingham, designed not only to complement the local surroundings but to become a source of pride for the entire community. “Our team incorporated Arabic calligraphy and geometric patterns into the design. It wasn’t just for the Muslim community – it was a landmark for the whole area. That’s the kind of inclusive, community-driven project I’d love to be part of.”

Public consultation is one of Usamah’s favourite aspects of the job. “Retail taught me to handle tough questions, and that’s gold when you’re speaking to people about their neighbourhoods.”

Visual of the mosque development in Birmingham that some of Usamah’s colleagues worked on.

Inclusion at Pegasus

When he joined Pegasus, Usamah quickly got involved in their internal diversity and inclusion network, known as Inclusive Culture Action Group (ICAG). “I joined with the aim to broaden the conversation around ethnicity and religion. And I was welcomed with open arms.”

Now ICAG champions inclusion across multiple identities, including gender, LGBTQ+, neurodiversity and ethnicity. “We review policies, refine job advert wording, signpost events and host discussions. It’s a place for lived experience.”

He’s also represented Pegasus at PREACH Inclusion® webinars, including a Race Equality Week event hosted by the company in February 2025. “Speaking up as an ethnic minority planner is powerful, and I’m proud to share my story.”

Usamah taking part in the Pegasus and PREACH Inclusion Race Equality Webinar in February 2025. Also in the photo are: Priya Aggarwal-Shah (PREACH Inclusion), Douglas McCormick (Pegasus CEO), and Ellie Huggins (former Pegasus colleague).

“We need more town planners in this country, and we need them to reflect our communities. I want young South Asians and other ethnic minorities to see people like themselves and know they belong.”

— Usamah

Advocating Sector-Wide Change

In early 2025, Usamah was selected for Scottish Renewables’ New Voices campaign. “It was an incredible opportunity… they gave us training and confidence to be visible leaders and to speak up in our industry. It helped me grow personally and professionally.”

More recently, he joined the BAME Planners Network Steering Group. “We need more town planners in this country, and we need them to reflect our communities. I want young South Asians and other ethnic minorities to see people like themselves and know they belong.”

Usamah part of Scottish Renewables’ New Voices campaign.

South Asian Heritage Month: ‘Roots to Routes’

Usamah’s reflections on this year’s South Asian Heritage Month theme, Roots to Routes, are deeply personal.

“My great grandparents worked as contractors and road builders in Pakistan, while my grandparents moved into brick manufacturing... They were pretty well-off for their time, but that prosperity was short-lived after the India-Pakistan Partition… My grandad first migrated to the UK and worked in coalmines and telecommunications. When other family members migrated to the UK, their qualifications weren’t recognised, and they faced racism. So, they built their own businesses in grocery shops and takeaways.”

He carries that legacy proudly: “Every generation worked with roads, buildings, and infrastructure – it’s no wonder I ended up in the built environment. It’s in my blood.”

That work ethic was born from adversity. “We’ve come far – we speak more about mental health; we reflect more openly. But the racism my family endured left a mark. I’m proud of where I stand today.”

“My great grandparents worked as contractors and road builders in Pakistan, while my grandparents moved into brick manufacturing... They were pretty well-off for their time, but that prosperity was short-lived after the India-Pakistan Partition… My grandad first migrated to the UK and worked in coalmines and telecommunications. When other family members migrated to the UK, their qualifications weren’t recognised, and they faced racism. So, they built their own businesses in grocery shops and takeaways.”

— Usamah

Identity through the years

Usamah’s relationship with his cultural identity has evolved. “I’m a Scottish-born, Pakistani Muslim, and now, I embrace that fully. But it wasn’t always easy. Growing up in the shadow of global events like the ‘War on Terror’ and economic upheaval, I saw my culture scapegoated. I felt pressure to assimilate.”

Today, he channels those experiences into advocacy: “I want to be a voice for others. I faced those struggles myself, so this work is personal.”

Quickfire: South Asian Joys

We rounded off our conversation with a quickfire round on Usamah’s favourite aspects of South Asian culture and heritage.

• Best Cricket Team: “Pakistan!”

• Landmark on the List: “Taj Mahal. It’s iconic.”

• Favourite Dish: “Biryani. The ultimate comfort food.”

• One Word to Describe His Culture: “Hospitable – it’s in our DNA. We love sharing food, culture, and stories.”

Thank you, Usamah for sharing your story with us.

From Gold Jhumkas to Global Strategy: Alisha Miah’s Story of Finding Her Route into the Built Environment

Each year, South Asian Heritage Month offers a moment to reflect, celebrate, and honour the rich tapestry of histories, cultures, and contributions of South Asian communities in the UK. This year’s theme, “Roots to Routes,” invites us to explore the journeys – both literal and metaphorical – that shape our identities and aspirations. It’s about tracing where we come from and how those origins influence the paths we forge.

At PREACH Inclusion®, we believe that these stories matter. They reveal the power of heritage in shaping ambition, and the importance of representation in every sector, including those where South Asian voices have historically been underrepresented.

In this spirit, we’re proud to spotlight one of our members, Alisha Miah, Graduate Surveyor at Savills, whose story embodies the essence of this year’s theme. From her father’s migration from Bangladesh to her own route into the built environment, Alisha’s journey is a powerful reflection of how cultural roots can inform bold, unexpected professional routes.

Grab a chai and dive in!

By Alisha Miah

Where It All Began

Alisha as a child with her father.

My path into real estate wasn’t planned – but it turned out to be everything I was looking for.

My story really begins in November 1980, just a few years after the Liberation War of 1971, when my father moved from Bangladesh to the UK with little more than ambition and determination. He built a life from scratch, eventually running his own restaurant – a story that echoes across many British-Bangladeshi households.

Like many families in our community, success was defined by three career paths: accountant, doctor, or lawyer. That was the blueprint for stability, and it’s what every parent hoped for their children – including mine.

A Change in Direction

I was firmly on that track. I had an offer from UBS and was set on a future in investment banking. But then the pandemic hit. My A-levels were cancelled, and everything I’d worked toward suddenly shifted.

I pivoted into an apprenticeship in Audit at Deloitte. It ticked all the right boxes – especially for my parents, who saw it as a sign that I’d ‘made it’.

But something didn’t feel quite right. While the role gave me a solid foundation, it also made me realise I wanted something different – something more people-focused and dynamic. That’s when I discovered surveying.

Finding My Space

I went on to earn a First-Class Honours degree in Real Estate Management from Kingston University. My final-year research explored Shariah-compliant investment in the US commercial property market, looking at how ethics, social responsibility, and sustainability intersect in Islamic finance. It was a way of intertwining my studies and career with my identity.

Today, I’m a Graduate Surveyor at Savills, rotating through different parts of the business. I’m currently in Global Occupier Services, working in the Strategic Advisory team, helping corporate clients make smarter, more strategic property decisions.

Before this, I gained experience through internships at Gerald Eve, Colliers, and Savills – covering everything from capital markets to lease advisory and valuation.

Alisha at an event at Colliers, she helped organise with students from Kingston University, in partnership with PREACH Inclusion (formerly BAME in Property).

Lessons Beyond the Classroom

My confidence didn’t come from a classroom. It came from real-life experience – clearing tables at my dad’s restaurant at 15, stacking shelves at Waitrose, working Red Bull events, and showing multi-million-pound homes on one of Surrey’s wealthiest hills.

These jobs taught me how to connect with people, adapt quickly, and hold my own in any room.

Recognition and Representation

Along the way, I’ve been recognised as a Regional Finalist in the Women in Property Student Awards, a Dean’s Prize winner, and now as the Women’s Lead for Muslims in Real Estate. In this role, I’m helping push for more diversity and inclusion in the industry – something I care deeply about.

Proud of My Roots, Clear on My Route

Alisha in traditional Bangladeshi clothing, with her father.

My identity as a British Muslim Bangladeshi is central to who I am. I’m proud of my roots and equally proud of the space I’m carving out in the professional world. Whether I’m celebrating Eid with my family or advising clients in the City, I don’t feel the need to choose between the two.

My story is one of intentional choices – shaped by opportunity, resilience, and a strong sense of self.

As South Asian Heritage Month celebrates the theme “Roots to Routes,” I hope my journey shows what that can look like: grounded in heritage, driven by purpose, and opening doors for others to follow.

In conversation with Tom Cherrill and Iman Mohamed, Grayling Planning & Infrastructure

This month, we caught up with Tom Cherrill, Account Director, and Iman Mohamed, Account Executive, from Grayling Planning & Infrastructure (P&I) – one of PREACH Inclusion’s corporate partners. Grayling’s P&I team provides communication and stakeholder engagement services that support the UK’s energy transition, major economic development projects and infrastructure delivery.

In this conversation, Tom and Iman reflect on their career journeys so far, from early influences and unexpected opportunities to their experiences working across complex infrastructure schemes and diverse communities. With different lived experiences but shared values, they speak candidly about everything from social mobility to public engagement, inclusive consultation and internal representation in the built environment sector.

Grab a cuppa and dive in!

Tom Cherrill and Iman Mohamed.

Tom – experiencing social mobility

For both Tom and Iman, education was a gateway into unfamiliar but transformative spaces. Born and raised in Maidstone, Kent, Tom’s first experience of social mobility came from within his own household – though he didn’t realise it at the time. His stepdad, who worked in a garage by day, attended college in the evenings to retrain as an electrician. It left a lasting impression.

“There was something inspiring about seeing my stepdad return to education and see his efforts directly improve his, and therefore our, standard of life.” – Tom

That influence laid the foundation for an internship in Year 12 with the Civil Service, secured through the Social Mobility Foundation. “It was like a door had swung open.” Tom recalls. “No one in my family had gone to university. I didn’t even know jobs like that existed.”

Tom later became the first in his family and friendship circle to attend university, stepping into a completely unknown space.

He went on to study Philosophy and Politics at Brighton University, pulled in by the big questions of free will and purpose.

Iman – curious about the world

Growing up in West London, Iman attended a local state school where her early interest in politics began to take shape. But it wasn’t until her A-Level Politics classes that she noticed something was missing.

“It was very Western-centric… I was more interested in international perspectives – what was happening in the world around us.” – Iman

A talk on International Relations opened her eyes to a broader, more globally conscious framework, which led her to study the subject at the London School of Economics (LSE). Here she was exposed to a more holistic style of teaching, exploring narratives from Africa and Asia, and topics like genocide and displacement.

Though university was always the plan for Iman, the experience was still a shift. Coming from a state school, she admits she wasn’t familiar with things like ‘Spring Week’: “Those kinds of insights aren’t always accessible if you’re from certain backgrounds.” - Iman

LSE’s highly competitive environment also pushed her out of her comfort zone. “You can’t just float by… It forced me to look for internships early and made me realise just how many roles are out there – even ones I didn’t know existed.” In her third year, she landed an internship in Public Affairs and discovered an interest in this field.

Tom – Building experience in real time

For Tom, entering the planning world was never part of the plan – it started with a decision made during the COVID-19 lockdown.

“I was working in a restaurant during ‘Eat Out to Help Out’ and it was the worst month of my life!” – Tom joked.

That turning point led to a surprising opportunity: Tom asked a regular customer, who happened to be an architect, for an internship and he agreed.

“My work there allowed me to learn more about the world of planning, preparing reports specifically on the London Plan. I’d never thought about it before but found it fascinating.” – Tom

He went on to work at an agency in Surbiton, Kingston, where being closely involved with the Managing Director gave him invaluable experience and a broader view of the sector. “It gave me real insight, not just into projects, but into how an agency runs.” – Tom

In August 2022, Tom joined Grayling. Now, in his day-to-day work, he manages budgets, liaises with clients, and drives complex consultation processes across planning and infrastructure.

“You realise how many decisions shape our towns and cities that most people don’t even know are happening – it’s a motivating part of what we do.” – Tom

Iman – work with purpose

For Iman, her career foundations were laid in years of volunteering, something she had done while growing up. After her first year of university, she interned with the Prisoners’ Education Trust, a virtual experience due to the pandemic. Here she supported research on how prison learners were being excluded from distance education. “There’s such a strong link between education and reducing reoffending, it made me want to do more work rooted in systems and change.” – Iman

Following her year abroad in Italy, she took on a Public Affairs internship with a corporate agency. “It was very different – broad, fast-paced, and I realised I really enjoyed that kind of work.” Shortly before joining Grayling, she worked with Detention Action UK, a charity advocating for people in the asylum system.

“Currently there is no statutory limit to how long people can be held in detention centres. I supported them with their ongoing campaign to end indefinite detention in the UK, as well as working with a group to create a charter on how to genuinely value lived experience in the process – it was intense, but it mattered.” – Iman

After graduating, Iman knew she didn’t want to go too niche. “I was looking for breadth, for something where I could bring my interest in sustainability, my connection to communities, and grow my skills. That’s what drew me to Grayling.” She joined in October 2024 and has spent the last eight months working across a range of projects with diverse communities at the centre.

Tom – rapid growth and leading interesting projects

As we reflected on Tom’s rapid progression from Senior Account Executive to Account Director in just two and half years, there was a realisation for Tom of what an achievement this was. In that time, Tom has worked on a range of infrastructure projects, while being trusted to lead.

“It’s been a ride… there’s been a real mix of work and a shared effort, both from me and the team, to create space for growth.” – Tom

One of his early standout projects was Anglesey Freeport, where Tom was tasked with mobilising support for Anglesey’s application to become a freeport. After a dynamic four-month campaign, the Anglesey bidding consortium welcomed the then Prime Minister, the First Minister of Wales, and the Secretary of State for Wales to Holyhead port, where the politicians announced that Anglesey was to become one of the first Welsh freeports. For the work on this campaign, Grayling won the 2024 Consultancy Campaign of the Year award at the PRCA Polimonitor Awards.

But the defining work was on the Eastern Green Link 3 and Eastern Green Link 4 energy infrastructure schemes, the proposals for which run for over 100km onshore through three county councils. “It’s the biggest project I’ve ever worked on – we had eight in-person events and 17 webinars in four weeks. Getting that consultation over the line was a huge effort. It taught me so much on compliance, engagement, and even how to explain the idea of connecting four gigawatts of electricity in simple language.” – Tom

Another recent highlight was proposals for the redevelopment of Kingston University’s faculty buildings. “It’s been interesting because we’ve been able to consult not just with local communities, but also with internal stakeholders – staff, students, people who’ll actually use the space. It brings a very human side to the engagement process.” – Tom

Engaging with diverse communities

For both Tom and Iman, engaging with diverse communities isn’t just a requirement of their roles, it’s fundamental to how they approach their work.

Based in South London, Iman’s work on the London Power Tunnels 2 (LPT2) project has involved adapting messaging across different age groups and communities.

“You get such a mix of people, especially across London. Tone really matters – what works for one group won’t necessarily resonate with another.” - Iman

On Grayling’s Willesden and Kensal Green Connection project, Iman has helped lead initiatives that go beyond traditional consultation, such as organising school engagement sessions to inspire future workforces and community litter picks to build relationships locally.

For Tom, broadening participation is central to addressing structural imbalances in the planning process.

“If you look at who typically responds to consultations, it tends to be older people and that can sometimes align with NIMBY-ism… But we’ve got an acute housing crisis. We need to engage the parts of society that stand to gain the most, especially young people and renters. That kind of inclusive engagement could be what unlocks the support we need to move things forward.” – Tom

Promoting DE&I within Grayling and the wider built environment sector

Grayling has launched six new Employee Resource Groups from diverse backgrounds, experiences, races, sexualities and neurodivergent traits. These groups cover LGBT+, Parenting, Wellbeing and Mental Health, People of Colour, Faith and a Women’s Network.

Iman is an active member of the People of Colour Network, which plays a key role in fostering cultural visibility and belonging across the company.

“To celebrate the end of Ramadan, we organised an Eid food celebration in the London office.” - Iman

Alongside in-person celebrations, the group shared a message in the company’s weekly internal newsletter marking the beginning of Ramadan – part of a wider effort to highlight cultural and religious milestones throughout the year and raise awareness across the organisation.

Final reflections

With their careers at different stages, Tom and Iman offered advice to each other.

“The busy times don’t last. You have to go through it and come out the other side. The rollercoaster does go up and down. When you’re in the thick of it, it can feel overwhelming but those moments pass. And actually, once it’s quiet again, you find yourself missing the pace.” – Tom

Iman, reflecting on her early career journey, highlights how recognition fuels momentum.

“Praise and feedback from your account leads goes such a long way. Tom’s already great at that, just saying ‘thanks for all your hard work’ makes a real difference. It makes you want to give even more.” – Iman

Thank you, Tom and Iman for sharing your career journeys with us.

In conversation with Dina Morsy and Lenishae Brown, JLL

This month, we caught up with Dina Morsy, Senior Consultant and Lenishae Brown, Graduate Surveyor, at JLL – one of PREACH Inclusion’s corporate partners.

Both Dina and Lenishae have carved out impressive careers in real estate and property management, while navigating challenges and breaking down barriers. As Co-Chairs of Race for Change (R4C), JLL’s Business Resource Group focused on racial equity, they are helping to create a workplace where diverse perspectives are valued, ensuring that real estate is built for everyone – not just a select few.

We sat down with them to discuss their career paths, the impact of their work, and the biggest challenges facing diversity in the built environment sector today.

Grab and cuppa and dive in!

Dina’s Journey: A Passion for Cities and Inclusive Design

For Dina, her career has been shaped by a lifelong fascination with urban spaces and a desire to make them more inclusive.

“I’ve always been fascinated by cities. I studied Geography as an undergraduate, knowing I wanted to work in urban spaces. That led me to pursue an MSc  in Urban Design and City Planning at UCL, which was made possible through a scholarship from LandSec – an opportunity that truly shaped my career.” – Dina

Her degree was accredited by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors (RICS), leading her into Surveying. She initially worked in Party Wall Surveying, where surveyors navigate the legalities and potential disputes related to shared structures. However, she quickly found that the field was dominated by men.

“I was often the only woman in the room,” she shares. “I had supportive colleagues, but the experience really sparked my interest in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I).” - Dina

Dina later moved into Neighbourly Matters, specialising in rights of light – a technical discipline ensuring developments do not unlawfully obstruct natural light from neighbouring properties. This transition, however, coincided with COVID lockdowns, meaning she spent her early days without meeting any of her colleagues in person.

“The isolation was difficult,” she reflects. “I wasn’t just adjusting to a new role – I was adjusting to a completely remote way of working in an industry that thrives on collaboration.” – Dina

Following this, Dina transitioned to Cluttons, where she managed Property Management for telecoms, overseeing infrastructure-related assets and ensuring operational efficiency within a highly specialised field. While the technical aspects of the role were valuable, she found herself increasingly drawn to work that focused on people and communities – particularly DE&I within the built environment.

Dina joined JLL in 2022, first as a Surveyor in the Property & Asset Management team, where she managed the day-to-day running of large commercial shopping centres in the UK. She later transitioned in 2024 to the Real Estate Consulting team at JLL, where she works to advise clients on various real estate challenges, including consulting on how clients can work to make their spaces more inclusive, combining her interests in property, inclusive design and workplace experience.

Lenishae’s journey – Law, Real Estate and Community Impact

For Lenishae, the journey started with a Law degree, but it was the Property Law aspect that intrigued her.

“I decided to pursue an MA in Commercial Real Estate in Scotland. I had dreams of travelling the world through real estate, and studying in Aberdeen, a multicultural city, was an enriching experience.” – Lenishae

However, graduating during COVID made job-hunting difficult and she wasn’t initially able to secure a graduate role. “I started working at Foxtons as a Lettings Consultant, and I loved it. I even helped grow Foxtons ‘Afro-Caribbean network,’ which was a great experience.” - Lenishae

Eventually, she joined JLL as a Graduate Surveyor, where she was hired directly into the Affordable Housing team.

“Affordable Housing resonates with me because I have a passion for helping people. Later, I transitioned into Commercial Real Estate, working across Property & Asset Management, Agency, and Valuations. Now, I’ve secured a permanent role in Valuations, specialising in Operational Real Estate, and I love being able to work on nuanced assets, from hotels and wildlife centres to storage facilities.” – Lenishae

Career Highlights and Standout Projects

Both Dina and Lenishae have worked on projects that have shaped their careers.

“For me, getting the LandSec scholarship was a pivotal moment – it opened doors I wouldn’t have had access to otherwise,” Dina reflects.

“In terms of projects, one that stands out is a Party Wall Award I was completing in St James’ Park, where I had to survey an entire street and document pavement conditions due to potential structural risks. Recently, I drove past the area and saw the completed development! The project was ‘The Broadway,’ developed by Multiplex.” – Dina

One of her most meaningful projects was working on user experience improvements for Hajj pilgrims.

“As a Muslim, having a say in enhancing the pilgrimage experience was deeply personal.” - Dina

More recently, she worked on global transactions for Salesforce, where JLL provided Facilities Management services. The change management process allowed her to connect with people across different teams, making it a rewarding experience.

For Lenishae, securing a permanent role was a major milestone. “Job security in this industry can be challenging.” Lenishae reflects.

“When I worked in Affordable Housing, I helped design questionnaires for registered providers, engaging directly with tenants. That experience reinforced the importance of community-driven solutions.” She added.

Leading Race for Change: Balancing Advocacy and Work

As Co-Chairs of Race for Change (R4C), JLL’s Business Resource Group focused on racial equity, Dina and Lenishae are committed to making JLL a more inclusive workplace.

“Race for Change was founded during COVID, and I joined after attending a Black History Month event. Since then, we’ve collaborated with other companies in the sector, such as Knight Frank and CBRE, focusing on intersectionality in the workplace.” – Lenishae

“Our goal is to ensure R4C is a resource for JLL. While events are great, we want to create actionable takeaways. For example, JLL is opening a new office in Broadgate Circle in 2026, and we’re hoping to be brought into the conversations about inclusive design.” – Dina

They’ll also be partnering with British Land and CBRE to celebrate Windrush Day, they’ve hosted Community Days with speakers across different levels, and organised mentoring sessions with senior leaders.

“Our goal is to not just host events, but to strategically influence company culture, resulting in changes that support people of all backgrounds.” – Dina adds.

In their capacity as Co-Chairs, Dina and Lenishae recently had the opportunity to join Dawn Butler MP at the House of Commons (pictured), to discuss the Race Equality Bill as part of the APPG for Investing in Ethnicity. Lenishae was the only graduate voice at the roundtable, making it a particularly meaningful experience.

The Importance of Diversity in the Built Environment

Both Dina and Lenishae agree that diversity is crucial in shaping the future of the Built Environment.

“Real Estate has historically lacked diversity, and collaboration is key to changing that.” – Dina

Recognising the need for greater representation in the industry, early in her career, Dina became involved with the London Enterprise Network, run by the Greater London Authority (GLA), contributing to initiatives designed to inspire future generations and ensure equitable access to opportunities for young professionals from underrepresented backgrounds.

“Futureproofing the Built Environment requires diverse voices and perspectives. From an ESG standpoint, it’s crucial to ensure spaces are designed for everyone, not just a select few.” - Lenishae

Challenges in the Sector

Despite progress, challenges remain.

“Class remains a major issue. Without the willingness to listen and learn across the industry, creating a better future will be challenging.” - Lenishae

Dina agrees. “Generally, getting people to engage is tough. We of course understand that client work and day-to-day roles take precedent, but we’d love if people made more time to be inquisitive and learn something new by attending even just one of our events per year.”

Advice to Their Younger Selves

When asked what advice they would give to their younger selves, both Dina and Lenishae reflect on their journeys.

“Don’t give up. There will always be roadblocks, but perseverance pays off.” - Lenishae

“Embrace change. Be the kind of leader you’d want to work for – kindness goes a long way.” - Dina

Thank you, Dina and Lenishae for candidly sharing your journeys and paving the way for a more inclusive built environment sector.