“My father was a builder,” Arama recalls. “By the age of ten I was helping with surveying, concreting, and roofing. You could call it slave labour,” he laughs, “but it taught me the rewards of building something from the ground up.”

Encouraged by his partner to join NAWIC, Arama initially felt uncertain about what value he could bring. “I had imposter syndrome. Then my partner said, ‘we already have women advocating for women — what we need are men advocating too.’ That changed everything.”

Since then, he’s seen first-hand the barriers women face — and the power of community to break them down. “Belief is key. NAWIC helps women see they belong here, and that they can succeed.”

Working alongside women has also enriched his own experience of the industry. “Women are often more willing to share information and collaborate. While focused on the objective, they’re also able to think outside the square. My approach is often unconventional, so this suits my style well.”

Some of his proudest moments have come at the NAWIC Excellence Awards, and in helping colleagues like Shonika secure new opportunities. He credits strong women — including his mother and mentors such as Nelida Van Loggerenberg and Jane Burgess — for shaping his leadership and perspective. “When I first joined, there weren’t many men at NAWIC events. Hopefully my involvement has helped others see they’re welcome.”

“A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step — and if I can help others take that step, like they’ve helped me, then that’s something to be proud of.”