At BY Group, we believe that diversity and unique perspectives are critical to building a stronger future in construction and is a key pillar in our Construction Career Development Program.
In this article we celebrate the inspiring journeys of three exceptional Indigenous women who are not only forging successful careers but are also bringing invaluable cultural perspectives to our team: Chanel Williams, Kayla Muir and Priscilla Dann.
These interviews delve into their professional growth and highlight the key role their heritage plays in shaping their resilience, values and leadership on and off the job. Their stories are a testament to the power of confidence, curiosity and community focus within the dynamic industry of construction.
Chanel Williams
Chanel, tell us about your journey to BY Group. Can you provide an overview of the type of work you have been doing?
I joined BY Group early this year with a strong desire to gain hands-on experience in the construction industry, particularly in project management. Since then, I’ve been involved in estimating and learning about the tender process which has given me valuable insights into how projects are costed and procured. It’s been a great opportunity to build my skills and develop my understanding of the early stages of project delivery.
What advice would you give other Indigenous women looking to enter the construction industry? Can you share any achievements or milestones you've reached in your journey so far?
My advice to Indigenous women entering in construction is to be confident, stay curious and seek out mentors. Your unique perspective is a strength in this industry.
So far, a major milestone for me has been gaining hands-on experience with estimating and the tender process at BY Group, which has solidified my passion for project management.
As a proud young Yuin and Bundjalung woman, can you describe the role your culture plays in your life, as well as in working here at BY Group?
As a proud Yuin and Bundjalung woman, my culture is a central part of who I am. It shapes my values, resilience and connection to my mob. At BY Group, I bring this cultural strength into my work fostering respect, collaboration and a sense of responsibility. Embracing my culture helps me stay grounded and motivated, and I’m proud to contribute to a workplace that values diversity and inclusion.
We spoke to you earlier in the year about your rugby career; how have you found playing in the Australia A Rugby 7s squad?
Playing in the Australian A squad has been an incredible experience for me. It taught me discipline, teamwork and resilience skills that I carry into my professional life. Balancing sport and work have been challenging but rewarding, and I’m proud to represent my community both on and off the field.
Chanel Williams with fellow cadets Priscilla Dann and Matthew Cox at the Young Aboriginal Leaders Program Lunch.
Kayla Muir
Kayla, we spoke to you this time last year about your journey to BY Group. What have you experienced since then, and can you share how you became a part of the BY Group team?
Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects with BY Group and it’s been a great experience. I’ve been part of several job sites and participated in RAP (Reconciliation Action Plan) events while working down on the South Coast. The team is really tight-knit and community-focused, it’s been an amazing journey of growth – not only professionally but personally too.
Since joining BY Group, I’ve also been focused on my education and development. After completing my Certificate IV last year, I’ve now nearly finished my Diploma in Project Management - something I’m proud of. It’s opened more opportunities for me to grow in the industry and take on more responsibility. I first joined BY Group because I wanted to be part of something that supports Indigenous communities and opens doors for young Indigenous people in construction. Being part of this team has been incredibly rewarding.
Can you give an overview of the type of work you have been doing at BY Group lately and some of the opportunities you have had here?
I’ve been involved in a variety of different projects, from project work to community events. One of the best parts about working at BY Group is the diverse range of opportunities they offer. I’ve been able to expand my knowledge across different areas of construction and project management, while also getting involved in cultural and social activities, like playing touch footy with the crew down on the South Coast. So, it’s not just about building structures. I appreciate that it’s just as much about building skills, community and strong working relationships. Every new project brings a chance to learn something new and grow both personally and professionally.
What advice would you give other Indigenous women looking to enter the construction industry? Can you share any achievements or milestones you've reached in your journey so far?
To any Indigenous women thinking about getting into construction just know that you absolutely can. It might feel unfamiliar at first but we bring so much value and there’s space for us in this industry. You don’t have to know everything from day one – what matters is showing up, being open to learning and backing yourself.
One of the things I’m proud of is how far I’ve come. I completed my Cert IV in Project Management last year and now I’m close to finishing my Diploma. I’ve worked across a range of projects in NSW and grown so much in both skills and confidence. Being part of a company like BY Group which puts Indigenous inclusion and development at the heart of what they do made all the difference. It’s shown me what’s possible and I want other women to know those opportunities are out there for them too.
As a proud woman of the Gamilaraay people of the community and land of Gunnedah, NSW, can you describe the role your culture plays in your life, as well as in working here at BY Group?
The values and traditions of my culture guide me every day. As a proud Gamilaraay woman from Gunnedah, my culture influences how I work, how I connect with others and how I give back to my community. It shapes my approach to teamwork, communication and respect both on and off the job.
My culture also plays a big role in how I approach my role at BY Group. Being involved in the RAP Working Group gives me the opportunity to help shape how we support and include culture across our projects and teams. Working at BY Group has made it easy to be myself. It’s a place where culture is respected and where I feel I can make a real difference, not just in the work we do but in how we do it.
Kayla Muir with the South Coast BY Group team at the Shoalhaven NAIDOC Week Family Funday 2025.
Priscilla Dann
Priscilla, tell us about your journey at BY Group. Can you provide an overview of the type of work you have been doing?
My journey at BY Group has been such an enjoyable and rewarding experience so far. Everyone I’ve worked with has played a big role in my learning throughout my first year. I’m part of the Special Projects team, working alongside Rob De Brincat which has been an amazing opportunity to gain hands-on experience inside the office and develop my understanding of different areas within the construction process. Every day brings something new to learn and I really value being part of a supportive team that encourages growth and learning.
What advice would you give other Indigenous women looking to enter the construction industry? Can you share any achievements or milestones you've reached in your journey so far?
If you’re a young Indigenous woman thinking about stepping into the construction industry, I’d say take that step - you never know where it might lead. There are so many different opportunities, from networking and professional growth to exploring various parts of construction that you might not have even known existed. One of my biggest achievements so far has been building my confidence in the industry and being able to contribute meaningfully to real projects alongside experienced professionals. It’s been inspiring to see how much I’ve grown both personally and professionally in such a short time.
As a woman of the Wajarri and Amangu people and the Yuin Nation, can you describe the role your culture plays in your life, as well as in working here at BY Group?
My culture plays a huge role in both my personal life and my work. It gives me a strong sense of identity and connection - not just to who I am, but to the land and the people around me. Working in construction, I’ve been able to bring that cultural understanding into what I do, especially when connecting with other Indigenous people in the industry. Being part of BY Group who value and celebrate Indigenous culture makes me feel proud and supported to continue learning and giving back in meaningful ways.
Earlier this year you had the opportunity to visit the Australian Institute of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Studies (AIATSIS) in Canberra, ACT. What did you learn from this experience?
Visiting AIATSIS was an incredible experience. I learned so much about the importance of preserving and sharing Indigenous stories, knowledge and history. It really opened my eyes to how our culture continues to influence and strengthen communities across Australia. It reminded me how proud I am to be part of such a rich and resilient culture and it motivated me to keep growing and contributing to spaces like construction where Indigenous voices and perspectives are so important.
Priscilla Dann with fellow cadet Jordan Williams and BY Group's Operations Manager George Kandylas visiting the AIATSIS, Canberra.
The collection of stories from Chanel, Kayla and Priscilla offer a powerful and unified message for the next generation: the construction industry is a space where cultural identity is a strength, and personal and professional growth are deeply interconnected.
From gaining hands-on estimating experience to actively shaping our Reconciliation Action Plan efforts, these women exemplify confidence, commitment and the pursuit of excellence. Their achievements represent our mission to continually build a more inclusive and resilient future within the construction industry.
BY Group is incredibly proud to champion a workplace where cultural values are respected, celebrated and leveraged to build stronger working relationships and communities. A huge thank you to Chanel, Kayla and Priscilla for sharing their stories. Keep up the great work!