WOMEN of

IMPACT

Meet the women breaking barriers in real estate

Let's BE REAL

It is not always easy to change the status quo. Creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for all takes effort and commitment to make a real impact.

In honour of International Women's Day and the theme of "Embracing Equity," we are profiling eight inspiring female leaders who are paving the way for greater gender equity and inclusion in the real estate industry.

These women have navigated complex challenges and achieved significant success in driving

growth,

innovation

and

impact

within their

organisations,

as well as the

communities they serve.

From marketing mavens to data queens, they show us that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to success.

And that is

something worth

celebrating

JESSIE WONG

Managing Director,

Mortgage Business

Affin Bank

Embracing authenticity is

the key to establishing a change in mindsets

We are seeing progress in the representation of women in senior leadership positions but there is still work to be done. It is our responsibility as female leaders to challenge stereotypes, regardless of gender, and champion mentorship programmes.

It is important to encourage a culture of inclusivity, whether in the boardroom or in conversations. The change we seek must start from within us.

Empowering women in tech and driving collaboration

We bond over technology –

it fosters teamwork and partnerships!

We have spearheaded our newest product, the Affin Home Step-Fast/i, to help young buyers own their first houses easily. I am proud of my team for being quick to adapt to digital tools that help us make data-driven decisions, from segmentation to product innovation.

JOANNE LEE

Deputy Chief Executive Officer

Tropicana Corporation Berhad

Humanising leadership and creating synergy

I believe that collaboration and synergy are essential to drive change in a constantly evolving era.

To create lasting, positive impact for our company and society as a whole, we need to work towards a common goal with all stakeholders and partners.

As someone who has to support multiple subsidiaries and projects across Malaysia, I view challenges as opportunities for growth. Showing up as our best authentic selves will enable us to lead from the heart and take a genuine interest in our team.

It humanises our approach to governance, growth and innovation.

Seize equal opportunities.

the future of real estate needs women.

More women should explore the diverse opportunities in the property industry. Seek out companies with mentoring programmes and develop crucial skills such as analytical thinking, active listening, people skills and effective communication.

With enough persistence, dedication and support, anyone can excel and make an impact in the industry.

SHEILA TAN

Group Executive Director

Juwai IQI

Becoming a catalyst

for change

My ultimate goal as a leader is to inspire positive change in my community and team. Real leadership isn't about authority, but about empowering those around you.

I'm proud to lead an innovative company like Juwai IQI that prioritises digital adoption and equality. We empower women to become leaders in technology through mentorship, networking, and a supportive culture. Together, we can creating a more equitable future.

Be unstoppable.

show the world what you are made of!

Challenges can be opportunities for learning and progress, so cultivate a growth mindset and surround yourself with supportive people.

Women should take risks and challenge the status quo to become leaders who prioritise technology and growth in their teams.

The real estate industry needs more women leaders who are willing to think outside the box and make their mark.

DATUK ZURAIDAH ATAN

Chairman

S P Setia Foundation

Authenticity in stewardship

Be real and walk the talk. You have to believe in and enjoy the process, not just arrive at the destination through Machiavellian manoeuvres where the end justifies the means.

With this authenticity, you set the tone from the top to apply the principles of good governance and best practices. In my current role, such authenticity is important in inculcating the spirit of volunteerism as part of the Group’s culture.

Through well-planned volunteer project management, we want to excel in impact assessment and ensure the returns to all stakeholders, be it the communities we serve or our shareholders.

Invest in yourself to be on top of the game

To succeed in any industry, whether it's real estate or others, it's crucial to learn technical, developmental, and communication skills.

Immerse yourself in the industry, gather knowledge, and stay informed to stay ahead of the competition. With these skills, use strategic profiling to showcase what you can do and stand out. Don't be afraid to assert yourself, backed by your skill sets and knowledge.

You are not just projecting an image, but showcasing what you can do.

YONG SU-LIN

Managing Director

Lendlease Malaysia

Unlocking women’s authentic voices

Authenticity is essential for success, particularly in male-dominated industries. Women bring valuable skills and diversity of thought, which is crucial for driving innovation.

As a leader, it is my responsibility to create an inclusive culture, empowering employees to be their authentic selves. At Lendlease, we prioritise diversity, inclusivity, and authenticity.

Our DEI Framework focuses on achieving gender equity and building inclusive workplaces through programmes such as Women in Construction Asia Network (WiCAN) and Chapter Wanita.

Message to women, as the first female MD of Lendlease Malaysia

It is important to break down barriers before we can drive innovation in the industry. Technology and innovation is at the heart of everything we do at Lendlease. I am proud to be the first female managing director here to lead the team in delivering our largest development, The Exchange TRX.

To women striving for their voices to be heard, believe in yourself and embrace your unique perspective. Surround yourself with a supportive network, take risks and never give up on your dreams.

EVON HENG

Chief Operating Officer

PropNex Malaysia

Technology know-how is crucial for success

Having a growth mindset has led to me where we are today. In 2018, I faced a significant hurdle when I had to close our previous company and transition to PropNex (Singapore).

However, by embracing their principal values, we were able to establish operations in Malaysia and build a sustainable business model from scratch.

Challenges are constant in our evolving industry, but experimentation and digitization keep us connected and adaptable.

Success isn't just about making money. it's about transforming the lives of others.

Believe in yourself and never stop learning. In the real estate industry, we teach people how to fish. When they learn how to run their business, we witness their lives changing. It's fulfilling to see siblings and couples coming in as agents and succeeding.

Making an impact on others is the true measure of success.

CHRISTINE ONG

Group Chief Operating Officer

Keller Williams Malaysia

Leave meaningful footprints and be purpose-driven

As a leader, I strive towards making an impact by embracing growth and taking risks. I believe in "failing forward" and learning from mistakes rather than striving for perfection.

Success in our people-centric industry is rooted in humility. Respectfully treating everyone and fostering meaningful connections are vital for growth in every aspect.

Build a legacy that empowers change

Women aiming for real estate leadership should identify their big WHY. They must own their mindset to control their outcome and invest in others to build a continuous legacy.

I take pride in my team's passion for real estate technology and innovation, driving impactful implementations and conversations, and building platforms and tools collaboratively to seize growth opportunities. Building a culture that fosters tech-readiness is crucial for staying ahead.

AMY WONG

Executive Director

of Research & Consultancy

Knight Frank Malaysia

Driving real estate forward with data insights

The quote "You can do more than you think you can" has been a guiding light for me in both personal and professional challenges.

I am passionate about providing good insights from data to help the real estate industry build better spaces.

I am beyond grateful to have received mentorship by skilled and accomplished leaders who taught me the value of upholding my principles in order to ensure accuracy, even when facing differing opinions - as data remains impartial.

IS A SUPERPOWER

My advice to women aspiring to be leaders is to practice gratitude and positivity, and to embrace every experience as a valuable teacher.

Work hard and be kind, and pursue your passion while working towards your ikigai, or life purpose. In a world that often feels cynical and pessimistic, choosing kindness can lead to amazing things.

March 2023

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

From all of us at EdgeProp