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Women in property: Leading with purpose and empowering others to thrive

Property News

Brought to you by Property24
In celebration of Women’s Month, we step inside the world of real estate to highlight and honour the diverse and powerful impact of women across the industry. Through their leadership, expertise and lived experiences, they are transforming the way we buy, sell and experience property. From industry experts, their stories and leadership are transforming the spaces where we live, work, and thrive.

Nicola Strydom, licensee for Seeff Tzaneen and Jeanne-Mare Oosthuizen, Operations Director for the Rawson Property Group, share what it's really like to be a woman in the real estate industry, what they love most about their work, and what continues to inspire them.

The Why: What is the most rewarding part of your day-to-day work in property?

Strydom has been with Seeff since 2004 and is the Principal and Licensee of Seeff Tzaneen. She says the most rewarding part of her work is making people happy, watching others grow, and receiving appreciation from clients after every successful sale.

"I love the lifelong friendships built along the way, hearing people's life stories, and learning from each other. Every client represents a unique, new journey. This profession teaches me to remain humble, kind, and considerate, as you never know what a client has endured to get to where they are.

"It has shown me that challenging situations can be turned into great outcomes through proper support and guidance, and it has taught me immense patience when dealing with people of different cultures, genders, and ages," she says. 

The reality check: What is one myth about being a successful woman in real estate that you’d love to bust?

Strydom says that the myth that she wants to debunk, is that real estate agents don't work hard and make easy money. "Success in this industry requires long hours and navigating complex emotional connections, sadness, and loss, alongside the excitement and gratitude," she says. 

The daily motto: What’s one daily habit or principle that has contributed most to your career success?

"My daily motto is to always approach every person with kindness, because you never know what battles they are fighting," she expresses.

Jeanne-Mare Oosthuizen

The Why | What is the most rewarding part of your day-to-day work in property?

Oosthuizen says she gets immense pleasure from transforming operational challenges into actionable solutions. "It is incredibly rewarding to launch innovative initiatives that empower and cultivate the growth and success of the Agents and Business Owners we support, while providing our customers with an exceptional experience," she says.

The Reality Check | What is one myth about being a successful woman in the real estate industry that you’d love to bust?

The myth that empathy and emotional intelligence are 'soft' traits that don't belong in corporate leadership, is one that Oosthuizen does not agree with. "In an industry where women exert immense economic and operational influence, our ability to listen deeply, lead with heart, and navigate complex responsibilities is a competitive advantage. You don't have to fit a traditional mould, bringing your authentic perspective, setting high standards, and delivering undisputed capability is what truly sets exceptional leaders apart," she believes. 

The Daily Motto | What’s one daily habit or principle that has contributed most to your career success?

"Never stop learning, show up consistently, and bring people on the journey with you," says Oosthuizen. "In a fast-moving industry, success comes from staying curious and pushing yourself to evolve each day. Above all, success isn't a solo achievement, mentorship and coaching are a fundamental responsibility. It’s about intentionally upskilling others, sharing knowledge, and empowering your team to thrive alongside you," concludes Oosthuizen.

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