Azmeena Bhanji -Regional General Manager,
Real Estate Developments for PDM Holdings Limited

“A lawyer and structural engineer by profession, Azmeena Bhanji is a household name in the built industry amassing over 30 years’ experience in the real estate sector. When you think about recycling, think about Azmeena whose passion towards incorporating green building technology is evident in her projects at PDM Holdings Ltd .”

  1. Why did you choose to work in real estate and what do you like most about your job?

I’ve always been interested in the built environment – I am very passionate about positively impacting quality of life through low-carbon, sustainable development and creating green environments that promote occupant health and wellbeing.

  1. Is there a perception out there about what women in real estate are like?

There used to be – I had been turned down for jobs in construction merely because I was a woman – the employers had no qualms telling me this to my face. Even after all these years, I have faced attitudes which imply women are not technically inclined.

However, I believe that perception has been changing as more and more women come into visibility in prominent and responsible positions in the industry.

  1. Which women inspire you the most?

Without sounding conceited, I believe I am my own inspiration – I am blessed to be doing what I love and to have been given the opportunity that I can perform as well as anyone else in a male dominated industry.

4.What do you think about the future of women in the real estate industry in Kenya?

There are tremendous opportunities for women in the sector, especially with companies like BuildHer and associations like WIRE taking a leading role in promoting and supporting women within the built spaces.

5.Are you working on any exciting new projects now? How do you think that will help people?

I’m working on green affordable housing as well as a sustainable neighborhood transformation, both of which will have tremendous social, environmental and economic impact – being able to make a difference is what I love most about the work I do

6.On international women’s day, what’s a very practical tip for women just starting their real estate careers?

Don’t let anything or anyone hold you back!!!