Skip to content

Gracia Anyiam-Osigwe

For the second year running, NTU has worked in collaboration with Fortitude Advisory, a global network of construction industry professionals committed to supporting the next generation of talent into the industry.  Gracia Anyiam-Osigwe shares her experience.

Gracia Anyiam-Osigwe

In November 2024 we launched the programme to our students through an online webinar with Fortitude members on "Building a Successful Career in the Built Environment".  We were delighted that two students from the School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment were selected to take place on the 24/25 programme - the only students from UK-based universities in the exclusive 2025 Global Cohort.  One of these students, Gracia, gives an overview of her experience below.

Why did you get involved with the programme?

The Fortitude Programme offered a unique opportunity to gain mentorship from established professionals across the global built environment industry. I got involved because I recognised the potential to sharpen my leadership skills, refine my career direction, and gain real-world insight into the sector while still completing my degree. As an international student, I also saw it as a chance to connect with mentors who could help me navigate both local and global career pathways, making the most of my final year at university.

What did the programme involve and how did you benefit from it?

The programme offered a well-structured development journey for our cohort. Each participant was matched with an experienced mentor based on career goals and professional interests. I was personally mentored by Emma Davies (Director at AtkinsRéalis, RICS APC Assessor), whose guidance was transformative. I also had one-on-one conversations with Thomas Gannon (Global Head of Design & Construction and President of Fortitude Advisory) and Anthony Abana (Fortitude Advisor and Founding Member). They helped me reflect deeply on my career aspirations and worked with me to set clear, actionable goals. Through regular Zoom seminars, mentoring calls, and cohort-wide workshops, I gained a deeper understanding of how to prioritise long-term impact, improve personal branding, and manage leadership responsibilities. The tailored nature of the programme encouraged me to reflect on what motivates me professionally, helping me become more focused and confident in my academic and career decisions.

What are your future plans and how has the programme helped you with these?

I’m focused on a career that bridges property development, regeneration, and sustainable construction where I can lead interdisciplinary projects that create long-term social and environmental value. This path allows me to align my passion for urban transformation with my skills in leadership, strategic planning, and stakeholder engagement. The Fortitude Programme helped me clarify both short-term and long-term goals by providing a structured approach to career planning. Conversations with my mentor and the wider cohort gave me clarity on the types of graduate roles that align with my strengths, and the programme gave me the confidence to pursue them.

What advice would you give to a future student considering taking part in the programme?

The Fortitude Programme is an exceptional platform to build confidence, direction, and global perspective as you prepare for life after university. It gives you access to diverse and supportive mentors who are genuinely invested in your success. If you are ready to take ownership of your personal and professional growth, this programme will help you build the mindset and networks needed to succeed. Be open, consistent, and proactive. This is more than mentoring; it is an investment in your future.