DIIC Diversity and Inclusion In Construction at the Kent Construction Expo: 4th of Oct 2025

What an Incredible day at the Kent Construction EXPO 2025!

We’re incredibly proud to exhibit at this year’s Kent Construction EXPO and what an unforgettable week it was. The energy, engagement, and genuine passion for progress across the sector were inspiring to witness.

One of the standout moments was watching Faith Abudu masterfully chair the #EDI panel on Advancing #Diversity and #Inclusion in the #Builtenvironment. She was joined by an exceptional lineup of professionals and inspiring women: Abigail Blumzon FRICS MAPM, Abena Akuffo-Kelly FRSA, Hony Premlal MBA CIHCM, and Jessica Power.

The panel delivered powerful insights into the recruitment and retention challenges that organisations are navigating today from the perspective of both innovative SMEs like Bailey Partnership and global industry leaders such as Skanska. Their honest, solutions-focused discussion resonated deeply with attendees and highlighted the shared commitment to driving real, lasting change.

A Stand That Didn’t Stop Buzzing

We were impressed by the response to our stand,from the moment the doors opened, we welcomed a steady stream of individuals and organisations eager to join the DIIC community.

Individual membership grew by 25%—up from our starting 110 members.
Corporate membership increased by 10%.

The queue forming at our stand was more than a pleasant surprise—it was a clear sign that bridging the #skillsgap, investing in #upskilling, and ensuring site readiness are priorities that unite our industry. Seeing this level of commitment was truly energising for our whole team.

A Huge Thank You to Our Partners and Hosts

Events like these don’t happen without outstanding organisers. Our heartfelt thanks go to the incredible team at the Kent Invicta Chamber of Commerce. You created a space that fostered genuine #collaboration and #innovation and it showed.

We were equally thrilled to welcome an amazing group of guests onto the DIIC Podcast during the expo:
🎙️ Natalie Bonnick MCIPS from Lower Thames Crossing
🎙️ Connor Styche from The Digital Lookout
🎙️ Huda Lohiya
🎙️ Kemi Owoeye from Willmott Dixon

Your authentic voices, insights, and lived experiences are exactly why the DIIC Podcast exists. Thank you for adding so much value.

And a special shout-out to Mollie Gallagher , who absolutely shone during her first hosting experience on the DIIC Podcast. Congratulation! You were brilliant!

Already Looking Ahead to 2026

Kent Construction EXPO 2025 set a new benchmark, and we’re already excited for 2026. If this year was anything to go by, next year’s event will be even bigger, bolder, and more impactful.

Until then, stay connected and keep an eye out for our Expo conversations on the DIIC Podcast, available on Spotify, Amazon, and Apple Podcasts.

Instagram: diic_org.uk . TikTok: @diicconstruction . DIIC Podcast: spotify, amazon & apple 

See you next year!