PedElle transcends conventions to bring women together to network and connect across the sector.
By Rachael Moon, 9 September 2024
As women in the real estate and built environment sectors, it is indisputable that we often find ourselves in the minority. So having the opportunity to take part in an event which offers a refreshing and empowering departure from our daily professional lives, and a supportive space to connect with fellow female professionals, was a welcome experience. And that is how I found myself earlier this summer on my first PedElle.
Established as a platform for women to come together outside the typical office setting, PedElle is an annual cycling event created specifically for women in the built environment, encouraging participants to network, share knowledge, and support each other in their careers. The event first took place eleven years ago and has grown steadily in popularity and impact. The 2024 edition saw a 38 strong peloton adventure across the South of Poland – rich in both historic landmarks and scenic landscapes. Three full days of cycling covering many miles – both horizontal and vertical – were balanced with networking opportunities and personal growth experiences.
Transcending the conventional boundaries of standard industry events, unlike typical gatherings which often revolve around casual conversations over drinks, PedElle provides a dynamic and deeply engaging alternative that fosters genuine connections. As we cycled, we tended to adopt a two-by-two formation, so ‘networking’ happened organically as we cycled side by side for sometimes hours at a time, creating bonds through shared experiences. Having not personally participated in large group rides before I was faced with a further challenge of maintaining a conversation whilst on the bike. But these interactions changed my way of thinking by highlighting the necessity of not only participating in such events but also actively fostering supportive networks within our own organisations to promote gender equity and empowerment. The physical challenges and triumphs we encountered along the way provided a unique setting for interaction, different to any other ‘networking’ event I have participated in.
The sense of camaraderie was evident as we supported each other through struggles and celebrated our wins together. We fuelled each other’s determination, shouting encouragement and cheering each other on as we conquered the steep ascents. At the summits, we clapped and revelled in the powerful spirit of teamwork that carried us through the whole way.
The benefits of taking part in an event such as PedElle are broad and a long-term investment. Through its well-organised and thoughtfully designed format, PedElle continues to be a beacon of empowerment and connection for women in the built environment.
The history of FCBS’s continued involvement in PedElle is a symbol of the company’s commitment to supporting women in the industry, fostering meaningful connections, investing in all team members regardless of position, and encouraging participation in sports events that benefit both physical and mental health.
As Architects, there is much to be learned from observing how other professions operate in the current moment. PedElle brings together a dynamic mix of participants from various roles and occupations, some we work with frequently and others we rarely encounter. By engaging with professionals from diverse fields, we can uncover valuable insights, adopt best practices, and explore innovative approaches that can enhance our own work and drive positive change in our projects.
This event serves as a testament to the strength and unity that emerge when professional women come together, fostering both personal and professional growth in ways that extend well beyond the ride itself.