Diversity and Inclusion
Having faith in the rail industry CPMS-Egis Scheme Project Manager Farah Sajwani on the challenges to make the railways inclusive to all religions
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s a Middle Eastern Muslim, Farah Sajwani never thought she’d be working in the railway for a company in England. Farah’s journey into the industry began when she left Oman to pursue an undergraduate degree in chemical engineering in Australia. She then moved to Manchester, where she completed her postgraduate degree in engineering project management. It was from here that she moved to London and joined the graduate scheme at CPMS-Egis – where she has been for nearly three years. “Landing a job in a railway-focused company was very exciting, yet overwhelming, as I came from a country that did not have a railway,” said Farah. “I was a little apprehensive at first as I was concerned about being credible and having a successful career there, not knowing much about rail, but everyone has been very welcoming and helpful and I’m really enjoying it. “Another pleasant surprise was getting a graduate placement in a company that is understanding and inclusive of other cultures and religions. “I’d often heard friends saying that the working environment can be tough and that people from a different ethnicity, religion, education and national origin can sometimes feel left out in the workplace, but I have been fortunate at CPMS-Egis. I have felt included from the outset of my placement and am now Scheme Project Manager. I am also actively involved in the company’s EDI and Community Kindness Groups.”
In February, Farah was invited by Women in Rail (WR) to join the Equality Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Charter Working Group created by Women in Rail (WR) and the Railway Industry Association (RIA) following its launch last November. “I’ve joined the Charter Working Group because I want to make a difference and help organisations understand better how to attract
CIVILS Trial Holes Excavation and installation of concrete bases EMBANKMENTS Installation of all Piled foundations Cess Retention Erection and installation of OHL Gantry structures (masts, booms) De-vegetation REB, LOC and DNO foundations and platform installations (GI, Design & Install) Piling and Soil nails Platform renewals and refurbishments Rabbit Netting Cess walkways and troughing routes Gabian Walls Fencing and Access stairways Site compound establishment and access road
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a more diverse workforce and be more inclusive,” she said. “I think every person, regardless of their ethnicity, religious beliefs and background should be able to contribute equally to the growth and wellbeing of the organisation they work for, thrive in their job and realise their full potential.”
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