SHAPE Contribution to Design Award: Kiana Kashefi, WSP
Kiana is an Associate Structural Engineer with over 15 years of experience, specialising in the design, assessment, and rehabilitation of bridges and underground structures across major infrastructure projects in Australia. She holds a PhD in bridge design, is a Chartered Engineer, and plays a key role in technical leadership, design management, and mentoring within WSP. Her standout contributions include leading the structural design of Parkville Station in Melbourne’s Metro Tunnel Project and delivering complex multidisciplinary works across South Australia’s largest underground transport initiatives.
Mykra Project Achievement Award Winner: Mandy Rowe, Built
Mandy has over 33 years of experience in the construction industry, bringing a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her role as Construction Manager at Built. She has successfully led projects across government, education, and commercial sectors, consistently achieving results that reflect client values and objectives. Through her strong leadership and ability to foster lasting relationships, Mandy ensures the successful delivery of every project.
SYC Graduate of the Year Award Winner: Raheleh Peyvandi, John Holland
NAWIC President's Award Winner: Raheleh Peyvandi, John Holland
Raheleh is an aspiring Civil and Construction Engineer currently working full-time as an undergraduate engineer at John Holland, where she contributes to major water infrastructure projects. With hands-on experience in pipe-laying and site-based engineering, Raheleh is also completing a Bachelor of Civil and Construction Management at the University of South Australia. Passionate about sustainable infrastructure and continuous learning, she brings a strong work ethic, leadership experience, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the construction industry.
Built Continuous Improvement Award Winner: Sarah Illingworth, Fulton Hogan
Sarah is a dedicated Document Controller at Fulton Hogan Utilities, known for her precision, integrity, and leadership in managing critical project documentation. She plays a key role in ensuring complex infrastructure projects run smoothly by bridging communication between teams and maintaining rigorous quality and compliance standards. Beyond her technical expertise, she leads with empathy and care, fostering trust, collaboration, and a culture of excellence across every project she supports.
GHD Mentor of the Year Award: Ben Haylock, Lendlease
Ben has over 20 years of diverse experience in the construction industry, progressing from Registered Architect to Head of Conversion and Project Management at Lendlease. In his leadership role, Ben drives strategic project delivery while mentoring a wide range of professionals and fostering inclusive, high-performing teams. Known for a people-first approach grounded in empathy and authenticity, Ben is a passionate advocate for women in construction and the development of future industry leaders.
BADGE Constructions Emerging Leader Award Winner: Maheshi Tennakoon, University of South Australia
Maheshi is an accomplished academic at the University of South Australia with extensive industry experience in quantity surveying and construction management. Her groundbreaking PhD research on supply chain resilience in offsite construction, demonstrates her leadership and commitment to advancing innovation in the field. With a passion for teaching, Maheshi integrates her academic insights and real-world experience to prepare students for careers in the built environment and support innovation in construction project management.
Hindmarsh Business Professional Award Winner: Carmen Selway,WGA
Carmen is the Joint Regional Manager for WGA South Australia, with nearly 15 years of experience in engineering, infrastructure, and strategic planning. She is recognised for her collaborative leadership, deep industry insight, and commitment to delivering sustainable, locally relevant outcomes across South Australia. Passionate about people and culture, she plays a key role in shaping a positive, inclusive workplace at WGA.
Lendlease Crystal Vision Award Winner: Victoria Rashleigh,RPS
Victoria is a seasoned construction professional working for RPS with 27 years of experience, beginning in Head Contracting and rising through roles from Contract Administrator to Construction Manager, before transitioning to client-side Project Management at RPS Consulting. She has led major Defence projects, including the successful delivery of complex building works at both RAAF Base Edinburgh and a Navy Establishment completed in May 2025. Throughout her career, she has not only excelled professionally but also grown personally. With the encouragement of her community and team, she overcame a longstanding fear of public speaking, further unlocking her potential. Her journey is a powerful testament to resilience and continuous growth, inspiring those around her.
Congratulations to winners, finalists and nominees.