Congratulations to four members of our Cundall team who have been shortlisted for this year’s BCO NextGen Awards:

• Graduate of the year: Harshini Rajagopal, Graduate Sustainability Engineer
• NextGen Rising Star Scotland: Lucia Savastano, Principal Sustainability Engineer
• Inspirational leader of the year: Theodor Bratosin, Senior Sustainability Engineer
• Inspirational leader of the year: Robert van Zyl, Partner – Building Services

The BCO NextGen Awards honour the most outstanding young professionals in the commercial property industry and those who support, inspire, and elevate them on their journey.

Harshini is driven by curiosity, a love of learning, and a passion for creating positive change in the industry. She actively seeks opportunities to grow and apply new insights to advance sustainability. As a graduate engineer, Harshini has already contributed to multiple BREEAM assessments and WELL certifications, delivered a presentation on the UK Net Zero Carbon Buildings Standard, and participated in external initiatives such as the 'climate conversations' project, which gathers community surveys on climate awareness and action across Greater Manchester.

Lucia plays a key role in shaping the workplace sector through her leadership, innovation, and commitment to promoting health and wellbeing. Lucia led the delivery of Scotland’s first WELL certified office fit-out, achieving Gold certification. Beyond her work at Cundall, she actively shares her expertise through involvement in BCO NextGen, Women in Property, and International WELL Building Institute events.

Theodor is passionate about fostering collaboration and mentorship to support those around him. His leadership style is rooted in honesty and accountability, setting an example that inspires others to take ownership and aim for excellence. He ensures that all new team members receive structured inductions and early project involvement to support their integration and skill development. Theodor co-chairs Cundall Manchester’s NextGen group, helping early career engineers gain visibility in the industry by organising successful events, seminars, and thought leadership initiatives.

Robert's leadership as the founding partner of Cundall’s Birmingham office, champions a culture of continuous learning and innovation. Through hosting internal ‘Tech Talks’, Robert enables knowledge sharing across the global business, regardless of discipline or seniority. He supported the delivery of Birmingham’s first BREEAM Outstanding and NABERS 5 Star-rated building, setting a new benchmark for environmental performance in commercial spaces across the city. As Chair of the BCO Midlands Chapter, Robert also contributes to the mentoring scheme, helping future talent build their knowledge, confidence, and career direction.

The BCO NextGen Awards will take place on 13 November in London.

Congratulations and best of luck to all those shortlisted!