Burnley-born businesswoman Saira Hussain reaches final of prestigious Forty Under 40 United Kingdom Awards
A Burnley-born architect who launched her career in the town has been named a finalist for a major national award recognising young business leaders.
Saira Hussain, founder of independent architectural practice HAD & Co, has been shortlisted for the fourth Forty Under 40 United Kingdom Awards.
The awards recognise young professionals and leaders across a range of industries for their work, leadership and contribution to their sectors.
Saira began her career in Burnley, where she established her first architectural practice. HAD & Co has since expanded, with offices now operating in Burnley, Blackburn and Manchester.
The female-led practice works across a range of areas including architecture, planning appeals, building control, heritage projects, change of use applications and certificates of lawful development.
Saira has qualifications covering architecture, interior design, architectural technology and building surveying, and is currently undertaking further studies.
Alongside running the practice, she has also campaigned on business and policy issues, lobbying Government departments and other organisations.
HAD & Co has also worked with students, receiving recognition from Burnley College and Manchester College for its contribution to student development.
Saira said being named a finalist was particularly meaningful because of her roots in Burnley.
She said: “Being named a finalist for the Forty Under 40 United Kingdom Awards is an incredibly humbling moment. I am immensely proud of my roots in Burnley, where I started this journey.
“My career has been built on navigating a traditionally male-dominated industry while balancing the intense demands of raising three young children. It has not always been easy, but I am driven to push through the barriers that often constrain women in this field.
“I hope this recognition serves as a powerful message to other young women: your ambition is valid, your voice is necessary, and you belong at every table you choose to sit at.”
Beyond her practice, Hussain regularly lobbies government departments and key stakeholders to influence business and policy.
The winners will be announced at a gala ceremony at The Hilton Paddington Hotel in London on Sunday November 8th.
The Forty Under 40 awards are held to recognise emerging leaders across different industries in the UK and internationally.