Nicole El-Sayah Honored for Advocacy in Construction Community

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Nicole El-Sayah of EllisDon receives the inaugural OGCA Women in Construction Award for her dedication to inclusivity within the construction sector.

In celebration of Pride Month, the Daily Commercial News and Journal of Commerce sought to highlight an individual making strides toward inclusivity within the construction industry. Nicole El-Sayah of EllisDon was recently awarded the inaugural Ontario General Contractors Association (OGCA) Women in Construction Award for her significant community involvement. This recognition is one that El-Sayah values deeply, and during her acceptance speech, her passion for advocating for women and the LGBTQ2S+ community in the construction field was unmistakable.
As the Toronto-area lead for EllisDon’s PEACE network, which aims to create safe spaces for LGBTQ2S+ individuals within both EllisDon and the broader Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Owner, Operator (AECOO) industry, El-Sayah expressed, "It has been one of the most rewarding experiences I’ve ever had, not just because of what we’ve been able to accomplish, but because of the people I’ve had the privilege to work with."
El-Sayah’s commitment to fostering an inclusive environment was echoed by her peers, who supported her nomination for the award. Alexia MacLeod, co-owner and president of Somerville Construction and the incoming OGCA chair, highlighted El-Sayah’s impact, stating, "She’s behind initiatives that don’t just check a box; they genuinely connect people and make them feel seen. Nicole approaches everything with care and intention. People show up because of her, they stay engaged because of her, and they feel part of something bigger. That’s what makes her impact so meaningful."
The PEACE network promotes inclusion through education, connection, and allyship, driving meaningful change within the construction community. El-Sayah emphasized that this award is not just a personal achievement but also belongs to all those who contribute to building a supportive community. "The amazing folks who show up and care and push for better and who believe community isn’t just an idea, it’s something you actively build every day," she remarked.
El-Sayah acknowledged that community work can often feel like a slow process, relying on conversations and small actions. However, she believes that consistent efforts yield substantial results, leading to increased visibility, stronger connections, and safer, more inclusive environments for everyone involved. "This award is a reminder that the work matters and that there’s still more to do," she concluded, highlighting the ongoing journey toward inclusivity in the construction sector.

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