In recognition of International Women’s Day, the West End Home Builders’ Association (WE HBA) is highlighting the contributions of women across the residential construction industry. This year, the association is chaired by Dani Gabriele of Marz Homes. Earlier this year, we spoke with Gabriele about her experience within the association and how involvement in WE HBA has shaped her professional journey.
Through WE HBA, as her career advanced, she gained exposure to a wide range of perspectives across the industry. “You’re introduced to different perspectives, you’re sharing market information, and you’re learning constantly,” she said. “I always walk out of meetings having learned something new.” Over time, those conversations and connections evolved into trusted professional relationships and, in many cases, lasting friendships, underscoring the value of an engaged and connected membership.
The West End Home Builders’ Association was also the first home builders’ association in Ontario to establish a dedicated women’s group through its Women in Industry (WIN) Committee. The committee’s mandate is to raise the profile of women in the home building industry while creating opportunities that empower women in the field to thrive. Through networking and educational events, award recognition, and editorial initiatives, the committee works to support women at every stage of their careers while strengthening the professional community around them. The spirit behind the committee’s work is simple: when women succeed in this industry, WE WIN together.
Each year, the committee hosts several events that bring women in the industry together, including the Women’s Spring Social, the Women’s 9 & Dine, the Women in Industry Luncheon, and the WE BUILD Showcase. The Women in Industry Luncheon also serves as an opportunity to recognize outstanding female leaders through the presentation of the Women in Industry Award and the Women in Industry Youth Award, celebrating both established professionals and the next generation of women entering the field.
The committee is chaired by Dionne Fraser, Regional Sales Manager Builder and Realtor Partnerships at TD Bank, with Alicia Sljivic, General Manager of Heartwood Renovations, serving as Vice Chair. Fraser brings a wealth of experience in the field and a strong belief in collaboration. “Throughout my career, which spans more than two decades, I have had the pleasure of collaborating with and learning from countless remarkable women across the industry,” Fraser said. “Their leadership, support, and innovation have left an indelible mark on our field and on me personally.” Sljivic shares a similar commitment to expanding opportunities within the sector and believes residential construction should reflect the communities it serves.
“Construction is an industry built on collaboration, problem solving, and leadership — qualities that women bring to the table every day,” said Sljivic. “Through the Women in Industry committee, we’re not only supporting the women already doing incredible work across our field, but also creating visibility and opportunity for the next generation considering a career in construction.” As a leader in the industry, she remains committed to challenging traditional perceptions and expanding opportunities for women across every level of construction.
With strong leadership in place, the year has already begun with momentum. WE HBA recently highlighted the work of the Women in Industry Committee and its growing network of professionals through a social media campaign, which also recognized the association’s female board members, council and committee chairs, and members of the WIN Committee in celebration of International Women’s Day.
The continued growth of the Women in Industry Committee reflects a broader shift within the residential construction sector, where in a historically male dominated industry, more women are stepping into leadership roles and shaping the future of the industry. Through collaboration, mentorship, and shared experience, the West End Home Builders’ Association remains committed to strengthening those voices. For those considering a career in residential construction, know that there is space for women in this industry and a strong association ready to support and welcome you.
Together, WE build the future.
