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This International Women’s Day, we’re proud to shine a light on three incredible members of the GFW team. Women whose talent, character, and commitment make our work stronger every day. We sat down with Jasmine Lansberry, Ellen Casson and Helen Dewey to explore their career journeys, what they love most about being part of GFW, and the accomplishments that mean the most to them since joining.
Each of their routes into their careers is different – from unexpected opportunities to long‑held ambitions finally realised – but all three share one thing: a drive to keep learning, growing, and lifting others along the way.
When asked about their favourite part of working at GFW, their answers echoed a similar theme: the people. Whether it’s the supportive culture, the freedom to create, or the sense of shared purpose, each of them highlighted the importance of being part of a team where they feel valued and empowered.
Their proudest achievements reflect that same spirit. From leading exciting new projects to developing skills they never imagined they’d master, they’ve each contributed something unique to the organisation and to the people we work with.
As we celebrate International Women’s Day, we’re grateful for the women who shape GFW today and for the next generation we hope to inspire. Their stories remind us that careers rarely follow a straight line, and that every step, every story and every moment of pride is worth celebrating.
What was your route into GFW?
I applied for the Graduate Planning Consultant role while studying for my MSc in Urban Planning at Newcastle University. I joined GFW after completing my degree in September 2024 and celebrated my graduation later that year.
What’s your favourite thing about working here?
I love working in the North East, and here I get to be involved in such a wide range of projects – no two days are ever the same. I also feel lucky to work with an amazing team where everyone brings their own perspective and plays an important part.
What has been your proudest accomplishment since joining the team?
Leading on planning applications and seeing them successfully approved. It’s a great feeling knowing I’ve played a key role in delivering positive outcomes for our clients. I was also recently invited to speak to undergraduate planning students at Newcastle University about my experience at GFW – it wasn’t long ago I was sat in that lecture theatre myself, wondering what came next, and it was nice to be able to share my experience and offer a little advice to the students just starting out.
What was your route into GFW?
I joined GFW as a Graduate GIS Analyst last year. After a bit of a career change, I went to study BEng Geospatial Surveying and Mapping at Newcastle University, and I applied for the role here soon after completing my degree.
What’s your favourite thing about working here?
Definitely the variety. My role means I get to work across all our teams – Planning, Development, Architecture, Rural, Commercial and Residential – which keeps things interesting and gives me the chance to support lots of different projects.
What has been your proudest accomplishment since joining the team?
I’m really proud to be using and building on the skills from my degree, and I’ve developed a much wider breadth of GIS experience since joining. GIS has become such an important part of what we do across the business, and it means a lot to be the person who gets to deliver that work. A big milestone for me was assisting a Senior Partner in preparing evidence for an Expert Witness court hearing. A really interesting project and a big step forward in my development.
What was your route into GFW?
I joined GFW as an Apprentice and I’m due to complete my Apprenticeship shortly, with my final exam in April 2026.
What’s your favourite thing about working here?
What I value most about working at GFW is how supportive everyone is. The team is always approachable and happy to help, which makes it such a collaborative and welcoming place to work.
What has been your proudest accomplishment since joining the team?
One of my proudest achievements since joining GFW has been completing my Apprenticeship. Throughout this journey, I have developed a broad range of skills and strengthened my ability to adapt to new challenges. The experience has been incredibly rewarding, and I am grateful for the knowledge and professional growth I have gained along the way.
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