Encouraging the next generation of building materials’ industry leaders was the focus of the Worshipful Company of Builders’ Merchants (WCoBM) City & Awards luncheon, which took place at Apothecaries’ Hall on Monday 16 March, 2026.
One of the Livery’s most popular annual events, the Awards provide a platform for young people from across the sector to network with senior industry professionals, as well as provide the opportunity to learn about the history and values of City Livery Companies.
Now in its 14th year, the annual event celebrates exceptional achievement among rising stars in the building materials sector, as well as examples of service and dedication among WCoBM’s military affiliations and other charitable organisations the Company is proud to support through its Charitable Funds. These include the Beckenham & Penge Sea Cadets, City and Guilds of London Arts School, the Build Up Foundation and No Going Back.
WCoBM Master Lucia Di Stazio said: “Our City & Awards Luncheon is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate rising stars and young individuals who are making a difference in their field and profession and also acknowledge those who are leading the way in representing the dynamic and diverse opportunities available in the building materials sector.”
“Education is an area that I am incredibly passionate about. In whatever form it takes, be it professional qualifications, apprenticeships, practical training, mentoring or work experience, it has a positive impact on people’s learning and development, creating opportunities and helping individuals reach their ambitions.”
Each year, the Awards celebrate the best students who have undergone learning through the Builders’ Merchants Federation’s (BMF) training programmes. The BMF student winners were:
- Best Online Student: Tia Kowalik, Sales Person at MKM Building Supplies.
- Best Performing IOBM Diploma Student: Euan Blair, Trainee Manager at Beatson’s Building Supplies.
- Best Performing Apprentice of the Year: Jack Evans, Assistant Category Manager – Solar PV & EV Charging at City Plumbing.
Organisations affiliated with WCoBM were also present to receive awards, namely individuals from HMS Forth; the 3rd Battalion, Princess of Wales’s Royal Regiment (3PWRR); the Battle of Britain Memorial Flight; and the Beckenham and Penge Sea Cadets as follows:
HMS Forth
- Award Winner for Outstanding Service to the Royal Navy: Petty Officer Dale Plumpton
- Award Winner for All Round Contribution to Unit Effectiveness: Petty Officer Jake Crossley
3 PWRR
- Award Winner of Best Soldier: Pte Liam Scullion, A Coy
- Award Winner of Best Recruit: Pte Gavin Milligan C Coy
BBMF
- Award Winner of Aviator of the Year: Sgt David Yates
- Award Winner for Excellence: Sgt James Smith
Beckenham & Penge Sea Cadets
- Award winner for Outstanding Cadet: Frankie Ballard-O’Neill
In addition, awards were presented to the Build Up Foundation and No Going Back.
The Build Up Foundation is a charity that runs practical construction projects where young people can design and build structures in their local communities. Aleksa Asme and Kaylah Jackson received the Leadership Award for Community Change in recognition of their work to transform a park in Deptford, South-East London, into a safe outdoor space for young people, securing both funding and political support for the project.
No Going Back is a charity and social enterprise that WCoBM is proud to support, which aims to rehabilitate ex-offenders and help them to secure employment. The recipient of the No Going Back Rising Star Award was Michael Chapman, who has transformed his life since leaving prison. He has qualified as a BICSc assessor and now launched his own specialist cleaning and biohazard business.
All the winners received a trophy to commemorate their award, as well as a financial contribution from the Charitable fund.
The prizes were presented by Guest of Honour Dr Lois Rowe FCGI, Principal of the City & Guilds of London Art School. Dr Rowe has had a distinguished career in higher education, as well as being an active artist and researcher with a background in theatrical costume design.
She said: “I’ve been so moved hearing about the activities of the builders’ merchants and stories of some of the people we are celebrating today. Continuing to support and encourage the learning and development of individuals across our cities, the building materials industry and the important affiliations that this Livery supports ensures that we continue to build a skilled, dynamic and forward-thinking community.”
Each year, the Master also presents an award to someone within the Livery who has consistently contributed to the life and reputation of our Livery and continues to make a difference in our industry too. The 2026 Master’s Award was presented to Past Master Gary Hopkins, Chair of Turnbull & Co. Ltd.
Lucia adds: “Gary is a constant guiding hand for our Livery with his immense knowledge and positive leadership and encouragement, always thinking of others and for the greater benefit of our Company.”
The City & Awards luncheon was kindly sponsored by BMF, Brett Martin, The Encon Group, H+H, Heidelberg Materials, Henshaws Roofing & Building Supplies, Joseph Parr Group, Keyfix, Knauf UK & Ireland, Knauf Insulation, Lawsons, Marsh Industries, MRA Research, Monument Tools, NMBS, Reisser and Siniat by Etex. Without their support, events like this would not be possible.
