On Friday 27 June 2025, Newark Showground erupted into a carnival of colour, camaraderie and creativity as hundreds from across the UK construction industry came together for one of the most spirited events of the year, The Big Construction Diversity Challenge 2025. A jubilant fusion of inflatable obstacles, dance-offs, problem-solving challenges and pure teamwork, the event was more than just a day of fun. It was a powerful, live-action expression of unity, resilience and the transformative potential of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in the construction sector.
Now in its inaugural year for construction, this unique initiative was delivered by event specialists Nimble Media, following its overwhelming success in the rail and logistics sectors. Designed specifically to break down barriers, foster meaningful collaboration, and champion diverse teams, the event stands as the UK’s only team-based EDI challenge tailored to the built environment.
The inspiration behind the Challenge stretches back to 2015. Vicky Binley, Director at Nimble Media, explains: “The event concept originated from a conversation between myself and Adeline Ginn MBE, Founder of Women in Rail. Adeline wanted to create a unique team-building event that promoted gender diversity in rail, aligned with the charity’s mission at the time.”
Since then, the format has evolved significantly. As Binley adds: “We expanded into logistics in 2019 and naturally launched construction in 2025, following feedback from multi-sector organisations. We wanted to create practical, engaging ways to promote EDI in industries that have traditionally struggled with diversity.”
The format’s staying power, she explains, lies in its immersive, team-based design: “It’s deliberately fun. Not a seminar, not a panel discussion, but a high-energy, inclusive challenge. It highlights not just protected characteristics, but diverse learning styles, problem-solving skills and physical abilities. It’s a microcosm of how inclusive workplaces succeed.”
Throughout the day, teams rotated through a series of engaging challenges, from Human Table Football to the laugh-out-loud Silent Disco “Name That Tune” game. Whether navigating a collective leap in “Walk the Plank” or bouncing through the high-octane “It’s a Knockout” inflatable course, every activity was crafted to ignite communication, build confidence and showcase the strength of inclusive teamwork.
The standout Soapbox Challenge had teams assembling and racing their own DIY carts, a crowd favourite that epitomised creativity under pressure. Meanwhile, the Diversity Dance Off and Blindfolded Face Painting brought out the boldness and brilliance of every participant.
This year’s chosen charity partner was CRASH, the construction industry’s own charity, which supports homelessness and hospice projects by harnessing the power of the built environment. The collaboration added a deeper, heartfelt layer to the event.
Trisha Pickersgill, Chief Executive of CRASH, shared her enthusiasm with Design and Build UK: “We were delighted that CRASH was chosen as the Charity Partner for the event. We are a very small charity, so the exposure is hugely appreciated. It was a fantastic celebration of diversity, teamwork, and above all a fantastic fundraising event in aid of CRASH.”
CRASH hosted the symbolic “Walk the Plank” challenge and brought along corporate patrons to participate. Pickersgill was struck by the collaboration she witnessed: “We were surprised that many staff from the same companies didn’t normally work together due to different locations. This event gave them an amazing chance to collaborate. It was a pleasure to see it in action.” Her personal highlight was judging the “It’s a Knockout” Challenge, which she described as incredible, featuring nine varied and inclusive activities designed to encourage participation from everyone.
Proceeds from the Charity Tuck Shop and Hamper Raffle will directly support CRASH’s critical work, ensuring the day’s joy translates into places of dignity and care for the most vulnerable.
As the sun began to set, an uplifting awards ceremony recognised standout performances:
Best Team Name: SIG plc – SIG-ly The Best
CRASH Teamwork Award: AXIS Europe – Together
Bring on the Beans Challenge Award: Royal Air Force – Cap & Progs
Collaborative Teamwork Award: Worcester BOSCH – Diverse Heatwave
Team of the Year: Royal BAM Group – BAMBassadors, scoring a phenomenal 229.5 out of 260 points
Morson Group, the event’s headline sponsor, brought their people-first ethos to centre stage. Alex Greenhalgh, Client Development Manager, reflected: “Morson Group were proud to support The Big Construction Diversity Challenge, reinforcing our strong commitment to promoting EDI across the construction industry. Diverse and inclusive teams are vital for innovation and long-term success.”
Although Morson didn’t compete due to commitments with their own charity partner The Railway Children, Greenhalgh and colleague Kieran Donnelly were present throughout the day: “We supported teams, helped where needed, and soaked in the brilliant atmosphere. The day was a fantastic networking opportunity, and the organisers deserve huge credit for designing such inclusive activities.”
Looking ahead, Morson’s commitment is stronger than ever: “We absolutely plan to be involved next year—and we’ll bring a team! This event brings together businesses who wouldn’t usually share a room and opens up essential conversations around diversity and inclusion.”
Looking to 2026 and Beyond Organisers Nimble Media have confirmed the next edition of The Big Construction Diversity Challenge will return to Newark Showground on Friday 19 June 2026. With growing interest and a passionate community of returning participants, the future of this event is bright. As one participant famously said: “We came as a company; we left as friends.” That’s the magic of this initiative, a playful but powerful reminder that diversity isn’t just a box to tick. It’s a force that builds better teams, better outcomes, and ultimately, a better industry.
