Reina Menhem Is Building Confidence, Creating Inclusion, And Leading The Next Generation Of Women In Construction

Born into a family of Civil Engineers, Reina’s path was shaped by early exposure to building sites and the powerful example of strong women in leadership — from her mother’s career in a male-dominated field to a female Project Manager who mentored her during university. Today, Reina embodies that same strength, using her platform to advocate for inclusion, equity, and education across the industry.

• Grew up surrounded by construction and inspired by both parents, who were Civil Engineers, developing a lifelong passion for the built environment.
• Took her first steps into the industry through an internship under a female Project Manager — an experience that solidified her vision and commitment to pursue a leadership role in construction.
• Co-Founder and Principal Project Manager at Prodject, a consultancy delivering design and construction management services with a focus on collaboration, precision, and innovation.
• Overcame scepticism and bias early in her career by building credibility through preparation, professionalism, and meaningful relationships on site.
• Believes that knowledge, confidence, and clear communication are the cornerstones of being heard and respected in a male-dominated field.
• Advocates for education, awareness, and inclusion of men in gender equality programs to build understanding, mateship, and respect across teams.
• Supports policy reform and government incentives that encourage companies to employ, train, and retain more women in construction.
• Emphasises the power of mentorship and visibility, encouraging ambassadors to share their stories to inspire and guide future generations.
• Actively involved in initiatives such as Women Building NSW and Level the Site Mentoring Program, contributing to systemic change within the industry.
• Seeks to shape a future where women thrive with fewer barriers and greater confidence through leadership, education, and collaboration.

“I never let scepticism bring me down – I worked harder on myself, built relationships, and proved that I was capable. I focused on my professional development and ensured that my voice was heard.”

In this feature, Reina shares her story of persistence, leadership, and vision — reminding us that creating change begins not only with strength, but with understanding, empathy, and the courage to speak up.

Can you share your journey into the construction industry? What inspired you to pursue this career, and what is your current role?

My parents are both Civil Engineers; therefore, I was exposed to Construction early on. I fell in love with construction sites, and my strong interest in this field grew when I took an internship in my first year of university on a building site. I was being trained by the Project Manager, who was a female, and this had a significant impact on me. She became my inspiration. I am now a co-Founder and the Principal Project Manager at Prodject, a consultancy firm that offers design and construction management services in the building industry.

What has been the biggest challenge you have faced as a woman in construction, and how have you successfully navigated it?

As a woman and especially in my early days, I felt I had to work harder to earn my place in the Construction Industry. I encountered more scepticism than my male counterparts, especially on building sites. I felt disregarded for what I was saying, and some questioned or complained about having a woman give them instructions. I never let this bring me down – I worked harder on myself, learned how to build relationships with those same people, and proved to them that I was capable and that they were wrong. I focused on my professional development and ensured that my voice was heard.

What do you think are the most significant barriers preventing more women from entering the construction industry, and how can ambassadors like yourself help break down these barriers?

The construction industry has a reputation for being male-dominated, which can be intimidating for women. Female ambassadors, leaders, and mentors should continue to work on changing this perception and encouraging women to pursue or advance their careers in the industry. Ambassadors should take the lead in sharing their personal journeys with the younger generation, highlighting the remarkable achievements of the women who paved the way before them. They should also support policymakers in identifying the gaps and issues faced by women in the industry and provide suggestions for change.

What strategies do you use to make your voice heard among the few women on worksites or in meetings?

I always come prepared to every meeting or site visit, investing significant effort into everything I undertake. This dedication strengthens my confidence, allowing me to contribute meaningfully to conversations. I challenge myself to speak up and share my thoughts openly – because clear, confident communication makes a lasting impact.

What actions or initiatives would you suggest to create more inclusive spaces for women in the construction industry?

The government may offer additional policies and benefits to companies that employ women in the construction industry. Education is also key, and programs should include young men entering the industry, as they need to be educated on the roles and benefits of having women in the industry, as well as the barriers they face. It would create a better sense of understanding and mateship amongst each other.

What impact do you hope to achieve through your role as a Women Building NSW Female Ambassador, and what legacy would you like to leave for future generations?

As an Ambassador, I aspire to be a visible example of what’s possible for women in this industry. I want to highlight the wide range of opportunities and the meaningful benefits it offers—not just professionally, but personally and socially. My goal is to support others in navigating the challenges they face, whether it’s breaking into the field, advancing their careers, or finding their voice in complex environments. I envision myself actively contributing to the development and delivery of new initiatives that foster inclusion, innovation, and long-term change. By doing so, I hope to help shape a future where the next generation of women can thrive with fewer barriers and greater confidence.

Who has been a key mentor or role model in your journey—male or female—and how have they influenced your career and leadership style?

Growing up, I got to see my mother advance to high positions in a male-dominated field. She never questioned her abilities to lead or to be in a room full of men. She worked hard in her role and also assisted with my father’s businesses. She had to travel to remote areas for some of the projects she was running, and she made it work with having a family as well. Seeing this firsthand, I never thought I would not be able to achieve what I aspired to.

Can you share a formative experience that shaped your leadership vision and approach? How has this influenced your role as an ambassador in mentoring and supporting others?

I learned through the years that people’s behaviour can be a reflection of themselves and not necessarily about me. It pushed me to try and always put myself in other people’s shoes and analyse situations better before jumping to conclusions.

“Being less self-centred helps us see things with a much broader lens.”

What milestones has the construction industry achieved in advancing gender equality, and what initiatives or changes would you like to see to make it more inclusive and welcoming for women?

I have gladly come across several initiatives, such as Women Building New South Wales by Master Builders New South Wales, the Level the Site mentoring program, which I am proudly part of, the Industry Survey, Women Building Australia and many more initiatives by large companies in the private sector to boost the advancement of women in the construction industry.

There have been more women on construction sites in recent years, working with tools.

Additional programs should be offered at educational facilities and across various construction-related associations, as this is where they could have a lasting impact for generations to come.

What is your advice for women considering a career in construction, and how can ambassadors like yourself help make their journey smoother?

You should always follow your dreams and never let anything get in the way. Ambassadors can provide advice, set an example and be involved in the initiative and programs offered to help make a change.