Hanna Kalafarska from Doncaster has secured a place in the final ten of the 2024 Screwfix Top Tradesperson competition.
Hanna, 37, who has worked as a decorator for eight years, will now compete against nine other finalists from across the UK and Ireland.
From over 1,000 applicants, Hanna’s passion, enthusiasm, and dedication to delivering high-quality work won over the judges during the semi-final stage.
Originally from Poland and previously a social media manager, Hanna switched careers to pursue her passion for hands-on work. She has a special interest in restoring historic buildings, a skill she’s put to use renovating her own Victorian home. Hanna hopes to further her expertise by completing a diploma in heritage property development.
She also acts as a repair care ambassador, advocating for sustainable practices by repairing rather than replacing authentic items.
Hanna is also an avid cyclist and walker and feels that decorators are often overlooked. She aims to raise awareness of the skill and intricacy involved in the trade. In the future, Hanna hopes to mentor an apprentice and share her expertise.
Hanna now hopes to win the title, which comes with a £20,000 prize including tools, tech, and training. She would join last year’s winner, carpenter Astrid Arnold, in the Screwfix Top Tradesperson Hall of Fame.
The final, marking the 15th anniversary of the competition, will take place on 27th September at Screwfix LIVE, where a panel of industry experts will select the overall winner. The judging panel includes representatives from the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering, the Federation of Master Builders, and the National Inspection Council for Electrical Installation Contracting.
Hanna said, “Reaching the final is an incredible achievement. It’s not just about the win; it’s about showcasing the dedication and hard work that goes into our trade. I’m proud to represent Doncaster and decorators everywhere.”
Jack Wallace, Screwfix Marketing Director, said, “Tradespeople are vital to both the economy and local communities. The Screwfix Top Tradesperson award recognises the hard work that often goes unseen. All 10 finalists have shown exceptional commitment to their craft, and we wish them the best in the final.”
For more on the Screwfix Top Tradesperson 2024 competition, visit screwfix.com/stt.
