Second annual WiEA group’s conference hailed a success

On Thursday 7^th March 2024, the Women in Estate Agency (WiEA) committee hosted their highly-anticipated second annual conference.

Attendees took to social media to describe the “emotional highs and lows” of the event, after witnessing passionate talks from key industry figures including Kate Faulkner OBE. In contrast to more formal conference settings, the dynamic line-up of speakers led raw and powerful discussions, combined with practical advice and insights, that touched on various aspects of the industry and the challenges faced by female professionals. The event even featured a surprise beatbox performance, adding an unexpected but energising element to the day.

Held at The IET, Savoy Place in London, the event attracted nearly 450 attendees, marking a significant rise from the 250 attendees last year. They also saw a remarkable shift in gender demographics with over 20% male attendance, a substantial increase from less than 10% previously.

Key highlights of the event included:

1. Inspiring Speakers: Attendees were moved by the stories and experiences shared by speakers, including Heather Staff of Street Group and Rachel Hanniquet-Brooking of Apo Group Ltd. From personal anecdotes to professional expertise, the talks resonated with attendees on a deep and emotional level.
2. Creating Community: WiEA emphasised the importance of collective action in effecting meaningful change. Through initiatives such as their growing Facebook group and webinar series, WiEA provides valuable tools and support to empower professionals at all levels in the sector.
3. Industry-Wide Support: The event was only possible due to industry support from a wide range of sponsors, including Rightmove, Moneypenny and Propertymark.
4. An Increase in Male Attendance: The substantial increase in male attendance reflects the growing need for gender diversity and inclusivity at all levels within the estate agency sector. WiEA aims to achieve a 40% male attendance by 2025, emphasising the importance of inclusivity and collaboration in driving industry-wide change.

Verona Frankish, WiEA Committee Chairperson, stated:

“The magic blend of incredible individuals sharing their personal stories, industry leaders sharing their business insights, thought-provoking panel discussions on topics that are never covered at industry events, mixed with an audience who checked their egos at the door and came to listen and learn with open hearts and minds.

The issue of workplace equality remains a significant challenge. It’s not merely about meeting quotas or ticking boxes; it’s about fostering an environment where every individual regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic, can thrive and succeed based on their merits and abilities.

 The overwhelming response to Thursday’s event has been humbling and uplifting and demonstrates that our industry is ready for change. With so many legacy issues to address, this will not happen overnight, but WiEA are committed to being the credible voice for the change that is long overdue.”

 Attendee, Annalese Walmsley, Sales Director at Homebox, remarked:

 “How amazing, thought-provoking, emotional, inspirational and jaw-dropping was the Women in Estate Agency conference yesterday?!…Thanks to the phenomenal WiEA committee for a fantastically organised and executed event. It was a jam-packed agenda with some emotional highs and lows and I cannot wait to attend again next year.”

 Attendee, Abbey Brawn, Local Property Partner at Purple Bricks wrote:

“Yesterday, I listened to incredible women reflect on their trail blazing careers and overcoming challenges that you would have thought would be impossible, one after the other. They were the CEOs, the MBEs and the OBEs in my industry, the inspirational people you look at and wonder how they got there, and here is what I noticed…Firstly, their feminine energy and the strengths we associate with women were a huge factor in how they got there… The other common denominator I saw in all of these women was the joy they felt shining a light on the other women around them.”

 Attendee, Simon Leadbetter of We Are Unchained said:

“Yesterday’s Women in Estate Agency conference was exceptional. We heard so many personal, powerful, and moving testimonies and watched brilliant masterclasses in culture, brand, cyber-security, and motivation/resilience…I was inspired, touched, and utterly astonished.”

Jo Bourne of Impact CTMD Ltd, explained:

 “This community has given so many a voice, a safe place to talk, share their stories, ask for help, make new friends, be authentic and vulnerable and most of all to know how important it is to celebrate “being you”. Yesterday’s conference showcased and celebrated everything that Women in Estate Agency represents and I am sure that men and women up and down the country will be reflecting on what they heard, saw and were a part of and most importantly how together we can all be the voice of change.”

WiEA already have a date in the diary for next year’s conference, Thursday 6^th March 2025. They will share more plans for the group in the coming weeks as they strive to do more and be more for women in the estate agency industry.

WiEA also encourages individuals to explore the resources available on their website and to register for upcoming webinars to continue the conversation and momentum generated by the event.

For more information about WiEA and upcoming events, visit www.womeninestateagency.co.uk.