Built By Us: Paving the Way for an Inclusive Future in Construction

In an industry long plagued by underrepresentation of the communities it serves and a lack of accessible and inclusive environments. One organisation is striving to make lasting change.

Built By Us, a social enterprise dedicated to driving diversity and inclusion in the built environment is leading the charge in fostering a more representative and welcoming sector. We spoke to a key figure in the organisation about the challenges ahead and why the fight for equity must continue.

A Career Shaped by Experience

"I’ve worked in construction for a long time," says Danna Walker, one of the leaders of Built By Us. "Starting as an electrician before becoming an architect, my career has given me first-hand insight into the barriers many face in this industry. My experiences led me to question the culture of construction—where change is desperately needed, particularly around inclusion. That’s why I founded Built By Us: to drive meaningful progress in this space."

The built environment is not just about physical structures—it is about the people who shape them. Too often, voices from underrepresented backgrounds are excluded from decision-making.

"We need to ensure that the industry is not just diverse in numbers but truly inclusive in its culture," they explain. "That means welcoming new perspectives, tackling skills shortages, and creating equitable opportunities for all."

Image by Tobi Sobowale

A Shifting Landscape: DEI in the Face of Political Change

Diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) efforts face fresh challenges. "In the US, we’re seeing some companies rolling back their DEI initiatives based on a false narrative that inclusion somehow means compromising on merit. That is simply not true," Danna asserts. "When we talk about diversity, we mean everyone. The UK’s Equality Act reminds us that inclusion is about recognising and supporting people as they are."

For Built By Us, the message is clear: now is not the time to abandon DEI efforts. "We live in a multicultural society. To be a good leader, a good manager, or even a good team player, you need to understand and respect the experiences of others. Businesses that turn away from this will find themselves shirking their duty of care and will end up on the wrong side of history."

Addressing the Industry’s Biggest Challenges

Looking ahead, Built By Us is focused on some of the most pressing issues facing the built environment. "Skills shortages remain a huge challenge. I’m working with the City of London on a ‘Skills for a Sustainable Skyline’ project to equip professionals with green skills for a changing world. Sustainability and social justice are deeply connected—so we must ensure that nobody is left behind in this transition."

The shift towards a net-zero future will require fundamental changes in how buildings are designed, constructed, and maintained. "We need to manage this transition in a way that prioritises equity. That means upskilling workers, ensuring fair access to opportunities, and addressing systemic barriers that prevent talented individuals from advancing in their careers."

Opportunities on the Horizon

Despite these challenges, the future looks bright. "We’re excited to be reopening applications for our SHAPE programme," they reveal. "SHAPE is designed to support entrepreneurs and founders in the built environment—whether they’re launching a new research project, an app, a design innovation, or a manufacturing business. Starting can be incredibly tough, so we want to provide a network of mentors and peers who can help these innovators succeed."

Fostering diverse leadership in the industry is a core priority for Built By Us. "We need fresh ideas, bold thinking, and new voices at the table. The next generation of leaders will shape the future of construction, and they must reflect the world around us."

Get Involved

For those who want to support Built By Us, there are plenty of ways to get involved. "We’re on LinkedIn and Blue Sky, and you can find more details in the information below this article. You can volunteer as a mentor, partner with us on projects, or start a conversation about how we can work together."

As the industry grapples with profound changes, organisations like Built By Us are proving that collaboration and inclusion are not just moral imperatives—they are essential for the future of construction. By fostering a culture of trust, curiosity, and willingness to listen, they are helping to build an industry that genuinely works for everyone.