A young South Australian executive director has claimed the prestigious National President’s Choice accolade at the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) awards last week.
Jessica MacDonald, Co-Founder of Yanun Project Services, clinched the award, which she says has been a career goal of hers for 20 years.
“NAWIC is a group close to my heart, so winning a national award is pretty special,” she said.
“As a woman in the construction industry, winning the National NAWIC Presidents Choice award is an immense honour.
“As an industry, we have been making strides toward breaking barriers and fostering diversity in this traditionally male-dominated field.
“I’m truly grateful for the recognition and remain steadfast in my commitment to advancing the cause of women in the construction industry.”
Jessica started Yanun Project Services in 2019 with her husband David. The indigenous and veteran-owned operation specialises in delivering a range of projects and programs in a variety of industries.
“As an indigenous-owned SME with a workforce of 50% female and 35% First Nations staff, winning the national NAWIC President’s Choice award helps us showcase our dedication to breaking barriers and fostering inclusivity on the national stage.
“The timing of this award aligns with the pivotal milestone for Yanun, recently opening an office in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT), marking our strategic expansion into new regions and highlighting our aspiration to become a national business,” MacDonald added.
A recent post on Yanun’s LinkedIn feed provided early encouragement for their executive director, stating that she is dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment and advocates for creating meaningful employment opportunities for Indigenous Australians.
Jessica claimed the award last Friday at The National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) Awards, which showcase the achievements and industry advancements of women, men, and organisations in the construction industry.
Jessica’s journey is marked by recent achievements, such as the 2023 NAWIC Business Professional Award and the 2023 NAWIC SA President’s Award.
These recognitions speak volumes about her dedication, abilities, and leadership, characterised by decisiveness, forward-thinking, and a strong sense of integrity.
Jessica is a member of the South Australian Business Chamber’s ThirtyNiners cohort, a community of forward-thinking, high-achieving business leaders aged 40 and under, creating a think-tank of ideas, inspiration, and opportunity that is working to shape the future of South Australia and beyond.
NAWIC is a not-for-profit organisation that seeks to promote and improve the construction industry through the advancement of women.
