Episode 14 - Yoshimi Douglas-Street

In this episode, Bev interviews Yoshimi Douglas Street, a trailblazing woman in construction, golf, and advocacy. They discuss her career journey from painter to Operations Director, her passion for mentoring, and her efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in the industry.Yoshimi transitioned from being a successful painter and decorator to pursuing a management role, recognising the need for long-term career sustainability. Her background in the trades gives her a unique perspective.One of the key themes that emerged from our conversation is the vital role mentorship plays in the construction industry. Yoshimi emphasises the impact of having mentors early in one's career, "I never had a mentor, and I think if I would have had one earlier, maybe the path would have been slightly different." By mentoring graduates and apprentices, she aims to provide guidance and support to the next generation, helping them navigate their careers successfully.Yoshimi advocates for creating psychological safety in the workplace. She believes that leaders must ensure their teams feel safe to express themselves fully. "Ensuring safe spaces for my teams is crucially important," she says. This approach not only fosters open communication but also encourages individuals to bring their authentic selves to work, enhancing team dynamics and productivity.As we conclude our discussion, it's evident that Yoshimi is not just a leader in the construction industry, but also a passionate advocate for women and of course Golf! Her journey and insights serve as an inspiration for many aspiring professionals, emphasising the importance of representation and support in the workplace.Takeaways:·      Consistent visibility as a leader builds trust and inspires others·      Transitioning from trades to management can create well-rounded leaders who understand all facets of the industry.·      Early mentorship can significantly influence career trajectories, providing guidance and support.·    Creating a safe and inclusive workplace environment is essential for maximising team potential and job satisfaction.·      Persistence in knocking on doors is key to success ResourcesFore Her Collective (formerly Ladies_Can_Golf the England Golf Award Winning 2026) is a vibrant women's corporate golf community designed to connect, empower and elevate women within the corporate world https://www.linkedin.com/company/foreher-collective/  Construction for women Anglia, launched in February 2020 to connect people across the construction industry in the East of England.https://womeninconstructionanglia.comFor more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk Chapters:00:00 Introduction to Yoshimi01:59 The Journey into Golf & Networking04:41 Mentorship& Giving Back06:47 Transitioning from Trade to Management09:25 Leadership Mindset & Consistent Actions11:55 Challenges in Career a& Personality Management16:14 Embracing Identity in a Male-Dominated Industry17:26 The Impact of Family on Women's Careers20:57 Learning from Failures24:07 Inspiring Future Generations25:55 Hopes for the Future of Construction28:29 Advice for the Next Generation