In honour of Pride Month, the Daily Commercial News and Journal of Commerce wanted to profile a person who strives to build a more inclusive community in construction, while illustrating that collaboration and dedication can truly make a difference.
Nicole El-Sayah of was the recent recipient of the inaugural Ontario General Contractors Association’s (OGCA) Women in Construction Award for Community Involvement.
It’s an honour she doesn’t take lightly, and during her acceptance speech it was evident she is a passionate advocate for women and the LGBTQ2S+ community in construction.
As the Toronto-area lead for EllisDon’s PEACE network, which creates safe spaces and community for LGBTQ2S+ individuals across EllisDon and the AECOO (Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Owner, Operator) industry, she says 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.”
Those same people felt she deserved to be nominated for the award.
“She’s behind initiatives that don’t just check a box, they genuinely connect people and make them feel seen,” who is a co-owner and president of Somerville Construction and the incoming OGCA chair, stated in presenting the award.
“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.”
PEACE, through education, connection and allyship, promotes inclusion and drives meaningful change.
For El-Sayah, the award also belongs to “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.
“Community work can sometimes feel incremental. It’s built on conversations and small actions and it’s showing up consistently. But over time, those efforts create real change, more visibility, stronger connections and safer, more inclusive spaces for everyone.
“This award is a reminder that the work matters and that there’s still more to do.”
