On the ninth of August, we celebrate the achievements of the many brave women of our past. Their courage marked the start of what women can achieve when we work together. Society and the world of work have come a long way since then. While there is still a way to go, it is important to celebrate the progress that has been made.
One industry that has offered more opportunities for women is the real estate sector. This sector, which was originally a boy’s only club, has since become a popular career path for many women.
Of the over 3,300 agents within the RE/MAX of Southern Africa network, 60.4% are female. What’s more, 62% of the Top 100 earners based on individual commission (earned between Jan-June 2024) are female.
According to Amanda Cuba, Co-Regional Owner and COO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, the real estate industry offers women the freedom and flexibility to be as successful as they choose to be. “There are no limits to what you can earn as a real estate agent. Your success is largely based on your ability to build and maintain relationships with a large network of clients, which plays into most women’s strengths,” she comments.
Amanda herself knows how challenging it can be to climb the corporate ladder. “I worked myself up from the humble streets of Gugulethu to acquire a BBusSc (Hons) from UCT. I filled various business analyst roles after graduating and later formed a diversified investment and management consultancy group called ZCAPITAL in partnership with my sister, Yolanda Cuba. On behalf of ZCAPITAL, we then concluded the 45% BEE deal with RE/MAX Southern Africa at the end of 2014. Thereafter, I assumed the role of chief operating officer for the region,” she explains.
Her advice to all women who are aspiring to success within this industry is to not shy away from leadership positions. “Building a strong team around you will not only help you to achieve greater success, but it also offers the opportunity to mentor and uplift other women in your team.”
“The month of August presents a great opportunity to reflect and assess the progress that has been made. We would like to honour all the women currently making strides in property but also hope to inspire and empower future generations to pursue careers in this dynamic field,” Cuba concludes.
Writer: Kayla Ferguson
