Women drive change in property and cities
The Women in Property and Built Environment Summit showcased how women are shaping cities, driving economic inclusion, and fostering collaboration between government and the private sector.
EmpowaWomen hosted an insightful Women in Property and the Built Environment Summit in Ferndale, bringing together influential voices from the industry to discuss the role of women in shaping the future of cities.
Sibongile Gangxa, the managing executive for Empowaworx Special Projects, welcomed guests and provided an overview of the day’s proceedings. She set the stage for a dynamic discussion on leadership, collaboration, and innovation within the built environment.
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The keynote address was delivered by the acting COO of the City of Johannesburg, Helen Botes, who spoke on The Future of Cities and How Women are Leading the Charge. Emphasising the power of unity, she remarked, “Women are stronger when we work together, and humanity is stronger if it works together.” She closed with a call to action: “Women should be participants in change, but bold drivers.”
The first panel discussion, Transforming Urban Leadership: Empowering Women to Shape the Future of Cities, was facilitated by Gangxa. The panel featured Core Impact founder Corene Breedt-Rammultla, the non-executive director of Equites Property Fund Limited Dr Eunice Cross, and The South African Institution of Civil Engineering CEO Sekadi Phayane-Shakane. This engaging session was followed by a Q&A, allowing attendees to interact with the experts.
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The second panel, Collaborative Growth: How Local Government and Women Entrepreneurs Can Build Resilient Cities, explored partnerships between government and women-led enterprises. Panellists included Avenir Holdings CEO Tshidi Mndzebele, Acting CEO of the Construction Sector Charter Council Gregory Mofokeng, and the South African Institute of Black Property Practitioners CEO Kululwa Muthwa.
Khomotso Letsatsi, the group executive for the Lanseria Smart City Project Management Office at the Gauteng Growth and Development Agency, delivered a masterclass on Building Winning Cities Through Collaboration and Innovation. She highlighted strategies for creating sustainable urban spaces through inclusive planning and innovation.
A fireside chat featuring Gangxa and Kedibone Phetla, the acting chief ombud at the Community Schemes Ombud Service, delved into Empowering Women in the Real Estate Sector. They discussed leadership, innovation, and economic inclusion, providing valuable insights for attendees.
The event concluded with a vote of thanks from Empowaworx CEO Simphiwe Masiza, who expressed appreciation to all the speakers and attendees for their contributions to advancing women’s roles in property and urban development.
The summit left attendees inspired and motivated to drive change in the built environment, reinforcing the message that women are not just participants but key drivers in shaping resilient and innovative cities.
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