An assistant civil engineer from Manchester has overcome significant personal challenges to win the Young Builder of the Year award at the annual Youthbuild UK award ceremony.
Zain Shafi (21) is currently undertaking his level six civil engineering degree apprenticeship, working with housebuilder, Keepmoat’s North West technical team
He plays an integral role in supporting the land buying process and assisting with various elements of work at the due diligence stage.
At age 15, Zain had to support his mum and three younger siblings, when he lost his dad. He managed both work and caregiving duties, often working night shifts at his home-based burger business and caring for his four-year-old brother, all while balancing an engineering course.
In 2021, Zain accepted a work experience placement with Keepmoat, which saw him commit to a 1.5-hour daily commute.
He completed the Government’s Kickstart Scheme and has now been offered full time employment with the housebuilder alongside his level six training and recent award win at the House of Commons on Wednesday night.
Zain said: “The on-the-job training at Keepmoat has been invaluable and significantly improved my knowledge and skills. It’s been brilliant to learn about new methods of construction and emerging technologies which are being utilised in the construction industry.
“I have worked hard to get where I am now, but I have always been determined to succeed for both myself and my family. It’s been difficult at times, spending long hours commuting, but my hard work has paid off with this fantastic award win! I’ve secured my dream job and I am attending university which is funded by Keepmoat.
“I really enjoy working within an encouraging and motivating environment at Keepmoat. I’m proud of where I am today both in my growing career and being a role model for my siblings, supporting my mother through a difficult time.”
Mark Dawson, technical director at Keepmoat, North West, said: “We are so proud of Zain’s progression and being named the Young Builder of the Year 2024, he has proven to be a great asset to the team and a very determined team player. His strong work ethic and outstanding attention to detail will take him far.”
