Quebec’s construction industry is witnessing a transformation thanks to Sophia Lundy, one of the few Black women general contractors in the province. Her journey from a struggling student to a pioneering entrepreneur exemplifies resilience and inspires a new generation of builders.

Lundy’s pivotal moment came in 2015 while studying construction management at an Idaho university. Despite excelling in most of her classes, she faced difficulty in one course. Her professor’s discouraging comments about her race and gender left Lundy devastated, causing her to miss an entire day of classes.

Her fortunes changed with an internship at a company that saw her potential. Lundy contributed to a $180-million project, which led to further opportunities, including placing third in a national competition among 150 schools. Reflecting on this, Lundy said, “Because of that experience, here I am years later, still in the field, still liking it and still looking for more opportunities despite the challenges and the barriers.”

At 35, Lundy has become a trailblazer in Quebec’s construction sector while balancing her role as a mother of three. Her passion for the field was ignited by a transformative experience in Haiti.

In 2010, following a catastrophic earthquake in Haiti, Lundy returned from New York at her mother’s urging. With only an associate’s degree in business administration, she helped assess building damage and coordinate relief efforts. Witnessing the fear and displacement caused by inadequate building standards deeply impacted her. “You don’t just build a house knowing that you didn’t build a strong foundation,” she said, which fueled her commitment to constructing safe, resilient buildings.

Lundy’s dedication to disaster relief continued with volunteer work in New York and Paraguay, assisting with rebuilding efforts after a hurricane and flooding. Her mother, Josette Bousseau, who resumed her business operations to support relief efforts, has been a major influence on her values.

In 2019, Lundy and her husband, Mackenson Lundy, moved to Longueuil, Quebec, and founded Masolu Construction in 2021. Their company promotes equitable opportunities in the construction industry. Last year, Lundy worked with Liberal MNA Madwa-Nika Cadet to amend Bill R-20, aiming to improve access for Black people and minorities in the industry.

Despite her achievements, Lundy faces systemic challenges. “Institutions here sometimes block you,” she said. “Some bids are just for some of the elite in the construction industry.” Her focus remains on overcoming these barriers and improving conditions for Black workers.

Mackenson Lundy, vice-president of Masolu Construction, credits his wife with profoundly influencing his career. “She pushed me in a way that no one else did,” he said, noting her encouragement led him into the construction field. The couple, who started their family while in college, now have three children, including their eldest, Sky, who is six.

The Lundys are now working on a $35-million social housing project aimed at providing 200 units for Black families in the Montreal area, marking a significant milestone in their mission to support their community. Mackenson has nominated Sophia for the 2024 Black Changemaker recognition, celebrating her as a role model and advocate. “She has strength, she’s very smart, and I want others to see that they can do the same,” he said.

Sophia Lundy’s journey is a testament to overcoming adversity and inspiring others in the construction industry. Her work reshapes the field and encourages countless individuals to follow in her footsteps.

  Construction, Quebec