NRP on International Women's Day 2026

On International Women’s Day 2026, we celebrated the incredible women at NRP who are breaking barriers and setting new standards in our industry.

The women we work with are trailblazers and role models, proving every day what’s possible in our industry.

We also want to acknowledge the allyship of our male colleagues who all champion a level playing field, an absolutely vital part of working together side by side with equality  Their support helps build a more equitable future for everyone.

Women’s leadership qualities such as empathy, collaboration, adaptability and resilience help make NRP a more rounded, people‑focused and forward‑thinking organisation. These strengths shape our culture every day and keep us moving in the right direction.

Are you a woman looking to build your career in our sector? We’d love to hear from you. Your experience, ideas and perspective matter, and they play a big part in helping us grow. Come and be part of creating a future built on equality, opportunity and shared success.

We asked the women in NRP to share their thoughts on their career journeys and achievement highlights, together with what IWD means to them.

Victoria Coxen

International Women’s Day reminds me to hold three perspectives: Backwards, with gratitude to the women who fought, and often died, for the freedoms we have today. Around me, with appreciation for the remarkable women I am privileged to stand alongside in and out of work. And forwards, with determination that our daughters and granddaughters will grow up in a world of true equality, opportunity and choice.

Agnieszka Jezierska

Career Journey

Having completed my MSc in Civil Engineering in Poland, I embarked on a professional career in the UK. After a six‑year career break to raise my two daughters, I returned to the profession with renewed determination. In September 2018, I joined Norman Rourke Pryme as a Project Manager (with past experience in design and traffic modelling), growing into my current role as Associate Project Manager, where I lead multidisciplinary teams across highways, transport and public‑realm projects. Alongside my project work (which I am truly proud of and enjoy), I serve as a CIHT Council Member, helping to shape policy, strategy and the future direction of our institution.

Achievement Highlights

I’m proud to hold Chartered Engineer (CEng) status and to have received the CIHT Award for Outstanding Performance at the Professional Review, with further features from the Engineering Council and CIHT recognising my professional journey. Supporting the industry’s development is important to me, which is why I serve on the CIHT CPD Panel, including (most recently) a term as Panel Chair—a role that has been both inspiring and rewarding.

I regularly contribute to sector events; I was a speaker at the previous Liveable Neighbourhoods conference (talking about two LN projects I am involved in). Most recently, I helped lead the LN conference walkabout, showcasing the Enfield Town Liveable Neighbourhood project—something I’m incredibly proud of. I was also co‑presenting in a webinar for CIHT. I have also been a speaker at the CIHT Young Professionals Summit, sharing my journey, lessons learned, and the importance of consistent professional development and being a STEM Ambassador.

What International Women’s Day Means to Me

“International Women’s Day reminds us of the power of representation. When women see other women leading projects, influencing policy, solving complex problems and shaping places, it expands what they believe is possible. For me, IWD is about visibility, opportunity and the collective impact of small, consistent steps. Those steps—taken by many women over time—drive real and lasting change in our industry.”

Ashley Coutts

My career has been anything but linear, and I’ve embraced the scenic squiggly route – detours and all!  As we mark International Women’s Day and reflect on this year’s theme, ‘Give to Gain’, I wanted to take the opportunity to reflect, thank and acknowledge the people who gave me opportunities that have shaped my career and opened doors I didn’t even know existed.

Since I was knee‑high to a grasshopper, I’ve been drawn to the outdoors, environmental systems and eager to understand the way people interact with the built and natural world. At school, I loved learning and was determined to be the first in my family to finish high school and go to university. Although I didn’t quite know exactly what I wanted to study, I wanted it to be connected to people, environment and geology.

My first role out of university took me on a somewhat unexpected detour into the world of freight forwarding. Thanks to Janet and the Oceanbridge team for giving me, a fresh eyed, graduate an opportunity.  While my squiggle here was relatively short, it became the first step in a career shaped by curiosity and adaptability. I still value my logistics knowledge and the importance of a fun, positive team culture.

The next bend in the squiggle came thanks to Chris and Shirantha, who helped me step in the door of the engineering world. As an engineering geologist, I spent my work days planning geotechnical investigations, logging core, building geological models, and monitoring construction of interesting projects. There’s something pretty special about being the first human ever to see a piece of rock from the depths of the earth, and then years later driving past a bridge knowing that I did the Geotech investigation and monitored the pilling for it.

Moving to the UK in 2019 for the ‘Kiwi OE’ opened the door to squiggles I didn’t know existed and after short stint as a piling engineer, I then made a Covid‑era pivot into project management and delivery of public realm schemes (thanks to Matt Duffy for the introduction). This detour would then enable me for the introduction to the awesome NRP team, which has become my best squiggle yet. I now get to work in programme and contract management, overseeing a hostile vehicle mitigation programme and a variety of public realm schemes.

Across every squiggle, one constant has stood out: the people. Supportive colleagues, clients, stakeholders, friends, and family have shaped my journey I feel incredibly lucky to enjoy doing the work I get to do and ultimately help create better public spaces for our communities to safely enjoy.

Following International Women’s Day, I invite everyone to reflect on one question: how can you give, so that others can gain? Remember that you may never know how far your ripple of giving will spread.

Linda Kulahicigil

Career Journey

My career in transport planning and policy began in the public sector with a career break to have and bring up children before moving to the private sector and NRP. It has been shaped by a commitment to creating places that are safe, accessible, sustainable and equitable for everyone. Over the years, I’ve worked across multidisciplinary teams, collaborated with stakeholders at all levels, and supported the development of a more sustainable transport network.

Achievement Highlights

• Leading active travel schemes that promote healthier, low‑carbon movement.
• Championing inclusive design principles through EqIAs to ensure transport planning addresses the needs of women, those with disabilities, underserved groups, and vulnerable users.
• Supporting junior colleagues and fostering a collaborative environment where diverse perspectives are valued.
• Contributing to policies and strategies that prioritise sustainability and accessibility.

What IWD Means to Me

“International Women’s Day is a reminder of the progress we’ve made and the work that still lies ahead in achieving true equity. It’s about celebrating women’s contributions — often made quietly and persistently — while recognising the importance of representation, voice, and inclusion. It’s a day to uplift, support, and inspire one another.”

Claire Kennedy

My career started working on motorway projects for National Highways before moving to Transport for London and then NRP, where I helped shape city streets and transport networks, including key cycle routes. Over the years I’ve led large transport modelling projects and contributed to technical guidance along the way. At its heart, my work is about turning complex transport analysis into practical street improvements that make cities safer, more reliable and easier to move around.

Achievement highlights

• Leading modelling for major London transport schemes to improve London’s cycle infrastructure, bus reliability, safety and Healthy Streets interventions,
• Building and leading multidisciplinary teams: designers, modellers and stakeholders, to deliver schemes that the community wants,
• Influencing London-wide transport modelling standards: Key contributor to TfL Modelling Guidance V4, 2021, which strengthens technical assurance of modelling,
• Driving organisational culture: Leading the EDI Committee (DICE) and creating and supporting NRP’s values.

What IWD means to me

“For me, International Women’s Day is about being brave with the decisions you make and surrounding yourself with the right people. Throughout my career in transport I’ve often worked in environments where women are underrepresented, which can sometimes be challenging. It’s taught me the importance of trusting your judgement, speaking up and backing yourself.”

Gaja Perchiazzi

My career journey started in Italy as an Architectural Assistant after completing my Master’s Degree in Environmental Engineering. I then moved to the UK and joined the NRP Bristol team as a graduate Transport Engineer.

Since then, I have been working on many interesting projects, such as the Oxford Street pedestrianisation scheme, and other public realm and active travel schemes in Central London.

Achievement highlights:

• Starting a new career away from home, along with its challenges and rewards
• Working on many interesting projects that align with my sustainability aspirations, and starting to see them come to life, from just a concept to construction
• Meeting people from different backgrounds and ways of life, and being able to learn from them and work with them collaboratively to achieve common goals
• Working on my leadership skills and completing ILM level 3 with the University of West England

What IWD means to me

“It means that Women have the power to bring innovation and a fresh perspective to an often male-dominated world. Women have immense power: they are strong, adaptable and creative. They inspire and nurture, and one day is definitely not enough to celebrate them!”

Sash Adhikari

Career Journey

My career in finance has been shaped by focus, determination, and a commitment to continuous growth. I began in Revenue Assurance, where I developed a strong foundation in financial accuracy, risk management, and analytical thinking. From there, I progressed through finance roles that strengthened my technical capability and broadened my understanding of financial operations — moving from Finance Assistant, to Senior Finance Officer, and now to Finance Manager.

Each step in this journey has reinforced my belief that women not only belong in senior finance roles, but play a critical part in shaping financial strategy, driving performance, and bringing fresh perspective to leadership. I’m grateful to have worked alongside exceptional colleagues and mentors who have empowered, challenged, and supported my development along the way.

Achievement Highlights

Alongside my current role as a Finance Manager, I am studying to become a Chartered Accountant — a key milestone in my long‑term career aspirations. Balancing a demanding role with professional studies has strengthened my resilience, discipline, and passion for continuous improvement.

I’ve built strong cross‑functional relationships, taken on strategic responsibilities, and embraced opportunities to develop both my technical and leadership skills. Every achievement reflects my dedication to advancing within the finance industry and contributing meaningfully to the teams I support.

What IWD Means to Me

“To me, International Women’s Day is about visibility, strength, and knowing that my journey opens doors for the women who come after me.”

Ruth Hunt

Career Journey

I started as a Technician with a Geography degree before becoming a Graduate Transport Planner. I then studied part time, whilst working full time, to achieve a Masters Degree in Transport Planning. Following a promotion to Senior Transport Planner my team started to develop traffic modelling capabilities and I gradually moved into this field to become a Principal Traffic Modeller.

Achievement Highlights

• Completing a Masters Degree whilst also working full time.
• Developing skills in multiple areas within both transport planning and traffic modelling.
• Having a critical role in a small team, which, ten years after its creation, continues to grow and succeed.

What IWD means to me

“For me International Women’s Day is a time to acknowledge the community of women worldwide, what we have endured, what we have achieved and the fight that still remains.”

Stephanie Atua

Career Journey 

My career has evolved from information management and administrative roles into a systems and operations-focused position within Corporate Services. Along the way, I’ve developed a strong interest in how systems, processes, and governance support better decision-making across organisations. Today, my work focuses on improving operational systems, reporting, and risk and compliance processes to support reliable and well-structured ways of working.

Achievement highlights I’m proud of 

I’m proud of the role I’ve played in strengthening governance and operational processes within the business, particularly through optimising ERP systems, supporting ISO certifications, contributing to risk management, and improving systems and reporting structures. I’m also proud of stepping outside my comfort zone through initiatives like DICE and leading Lunch & Learn sessions, which have helped me grow in confidence and communication.

What IWD means to me 

“A quote I often reflect on from Michelle Obama is “There is no limit to what we, as women, can accomplish.”  To me, International Women’s Day is a reminder that progress is driven by the everyday contributions of women across every level of an organisation. It’s about recognising our impact, supporting each other’s growth, and continuing to create space for women to lead and thrive.”

Nakiyah Bhaiji

Career Journey

My career has grown from a deep commitment to people, culture, and creating environments where everyone feels respected and able to thrive. When I joined NRP, I was driven by the ambition to positively influence how we attract, develop, and support our people. That purpose has guided me into the People & Talent Manager role and onto the NRP Executive Committee, where I can help shape the direction of our organisation.

Achievements and Highlights

• Completed CIPD Level 5, strengthening my professional expertise.
• Promoted to People & Talent Manager and joining the Executive Committee
• Part of DICE leading our efforts to embed diversity, inclusion, collaboration, and equity throughout the organisation.

What IWD means to me

“International Women’s Day is a reminder of the power of representation. When women are seen, heard, and supported, workplaces and communities become stronger.”

Serena Chia

Career Journey

I started my career in Christchurch, where I learned how thoughtful transport planning and engineering can genuinely shape the everyday lives of communities. From there, I moved through national roles across New Zealand and eventually stepped into my first private-sector role at Aurecon, contributing to transport systems that are more connected, inclusive and future-focused.

 Achievement Highlights

• Built a solid foundation in Christchurch working on public transport improvements and community‑focused transport projects.
• Progressed through national roles with the New Zealand Transport Agency and major alliances, gaining experience across multimodal design, traffic operations, road safety, and large scale infrastructure planning.
• Transitioned into the private sector, contributing to significant transport and urban transformation projects in NZ and Australia.
• Moved to London to expand my international experience, challenge myself in a new environment and continue to grow both professionally and personally.

What IWD means to me

“International Women’s Day is a time to acknowledge and celebrate women who paved the way, recognise those creating impact today and to inspire the next generation to step confidently into spaces where they haven’t always been seen.”

April Alcock

Career journey

My career in transport engineering started with a university class that sparked my interest and led me to pursue an internship in transport planning and engineering. I was quickly drawn to the mix of data, problem-solving and real-world impact, and I soon realised I’d found the right career path. Since then, I’ve worked across Australia and the UK, and over time I’ve developed a specialism in transport modelling. I’m now part of NRP’s London team, where I continue to grow as an engineer, supported by senior women whose leadership and expertise set a strong example.

Achievement highlights

• One of the highlights of my career has been applying transport modelling across a wide range of contexts, from rural highway corridors to highly constrained, multi-modal urban environments. Working across different cities and countries has broadened my perspective on the common pressures facing transport networks, the distinct challenges each context presents, and the role robust modelling can play in supporting better decisions and outcomes.
• I’ve also had the opportunity to support schemes in some of London’s most iconic locations, contributing work that helps improve journeys and create safer, healthier streets.

What IWD means to me

“International Women’s Day is an opportunity to recognise the women whose persistence and leadership have opened doors in our industry, and to reflect on the importance of creating environments where women feel supported and able to grow.”

Selina De Leeuw

Career Journey 

My career journey began with a passion for how people move through cities and how transport can shape more inclusive, sustainable communities. After completing my degree in Human Geography and Urban Planning, I joined the transport planning field to deepen my understanding of mobility, infrastructure, and public space. Each role and project has helped me build confidence — from technical analysis to working collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams. As a Graduate Transport Planner, I’m still early in my journey, but I’m motivated by the opportunity to contribute to projects that make travel safer, greener and more accessible for everyone.

Achievement Highlights

• Contributed to impactful transport projects that improve accessibility, sustainability and user experience across local communities in London and other parts of the UK.
• Developed strong skills in data analysis, modelling and report writing to support evidence‑based planning decisions.
• Completed key professional development milestones as part of my journey toward chartership.

What IWD means to me 

“To me, International Women’s Day is a moment to celebrate the women who inspire and support me, both personally and professionally. It’s also a reminder of how important it is to create spaces where women feel valued, heard and empowered to thrive.”

Morgan Carter

Career Journey

I began my career at NRP after completing a BSc in Geography, driven by a strong interest in sustainability and shaping places. Joining as a graduate and progressing to Consultant, I’ve had the opportunity to work across the full spectrum of development planning, from early pre‑application stages through to build‑out, as well as post‑occupation travel plan implementation. Working in development planning has allowed me to contribute to projects that promote accessible, sustainable travel choices at a local level. My role continues to evolve as I gain experience, broaden my technical skills and support the delivery of development that benefits communities and the environment.

Achievement Highlights

• Leading and supporting travel plan implementation, helping residents adopt more sustainable behaviours and supporting mode shift at a community scale.
• Contributing to the company Travel Plan and embedding sustainable travel principles into internal initiatives.
• Presenting technical evidence to wider project teams and stakeholders with clarity and confidence as my professional experience grows.

What IWD Means to Me

“Representation matters, especially within an industry that has historically been male‑dominated. International Women’s Day is a reminder of the pivotal role women play in shaping the future of transport, planning and infrastructure. For me, it’s a day to recognise women’s resilience, capability and impact, and to champion an industry where everyone feels able to contribute and succeed.”

Gloria Nyamhanga

Career journeys:

My journey into studying civil engineering started with a natural passion for maths and science from a young age. Growing up, I was also inspired by my father, whose amazing work improving highways and infrastructure in Tanzania showed me how engineering can positively transform communities. Seeing the impact of his work motivated to also contribute to shaping and improving the built environment.

After graduating, I began working as a project manager in NRP and quickly discovered how rewarding it was to be involved in projects that improve active travel, safety and accessibility.

Over the past three and a half years, I’ve found real joy in seeing projects move from the early concept stage all the way through to delivery. Being part of that journey and seeing the positive impact these schemes have on local communities is incredibly fulfilling and a big reason why I continue to love working in this field. 

Achievement Highlights

One of the projects I am most proud of is supporting the delivery of secure cycle parking installations. This programme was one of the first projects I worked on and remains especially meaningful to me. As part of this work, I supported the delivery of the first residential cargo bike hangar in Westminster, which was a particularly exciting milestone as it helps make non-standard bikes cycling more accessible for residents.

I have also been involved in delivering public realm and highway improvement projects linked to planning obligations in Westminster, helping to ensure that developments contribute positively to the surrounding streets and communities.

I am also proud of my work supporting the delivery of School Streets in the London Borough of Enfield. So far, I have supported the delivery of eight School Streets, these projects are incredibly rewarding because of the benefits they bring, including reducing road danger, encouraging active travel to school, and improving health outcomes for pupils and the wider school community.

What IWD means to me

“International Women’s Day is about celebrating every woman whether she is building a career, raising a family, pursuing education, supporting her community, or balancing many roles at once. It’s also a reminder to continue encouraging and uplifting one another, and to inspire the next generation of girls to believe in their potential and reach for their dreams”.

Florence Kong

Career journeys
After completing my MEng in Civil Engineering in the UK, I spent five years in Hong Kong working across highways, geotechnical, and infrastructure projects before becoming a Chartered Engineer in 2018. I then took a career break to travel. I later returned to the UK and joined NRP in 2020, and I’ve since been embedded within Westminster City Council as a Contract and Programme Manager, helping to deliver a range of s106/s278 and capital funded public realm schemes.

Achievement highlights

• Becoming a Chartered Engineer with HKIE
• Hiked the Annapurna Circuit in Nepal
• Walking the Camino de Santiago from Saint Jean Pied de Port to Santiago de Compostela

What IWD means to me

“For me, International Women’s Day is about visibility and recognising the value of different experiences in our industry. It’s also a reminder that inclusion comes from the small, everyday things — how we work together, support one another, and make room for people to grow. My own path has shown me that everyone’s career path looks a little different, and that steady progress and looking after your wellbeing matter just as much as the big milestones.”

Rozalina Lushi

After graduating in accounting, I gained experience in several finance roles where I developed practical skills and learned how businesses manage their financial operations. For the past year and a half, I’ve been working as a Finance Assistant at NRP, where I support the finance team with day-to-day financial processes and reporting and continue to grow within my profession. One achievement I am proud of is building my experience in finance and continuing to develop my skills since graduating. Working at NRP has allowed me to grow in confidence, take on new responsibilities and contribute to the smooth running process of the finance department.

IWD is about celebrating the progress women have made while continuing to support and empower each other in our careers. Every woman deserves to be recognised!