Meet the fresh crop of industry newcomers, ready to shake things up on the Future Leaders Committee in QLD.
“The Future Leaders Committee fosters a culture of innovation, collaboration, and bold thinking,” says Future Leaders Committee (FLC) Co-Chair Amy Tayt – Client Relationship Manager at Apollo. “There’s immense potential to enhance existing programs and activities through experimentation and implementation of new ideas. I also believe the future leaders committee should leave a lasting legacy, continually shaping the path forward for the Foundation.”
“As well as spreading awareness of the Foundation within their individual networks, the Committee drive worker bees in current properties and partner charities, and fundraising events throughout the year.” – FLC Co-Chair Amy Tayt
“The FLC is an eternally evolving foundation for the future of the Foundation. As members of the group grow in their own careers, they in turn inspire the next generation of future leaders. Given our representation of the property and construction sectors, we’re uniquely positioned to champion creative solutions and broader engagement to tackle homelessness effectively.”
Amy Tayt, Apollo Group & FLC Co-Chair
Rebecca Hunter, Marketing & Submission Coordinator at Cox Architecture & FLC co-chair
Why do you believe the Foundation’s work is important?
Having been part of the Foundation for a few years now, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact it’s had on people’s lives. Meeting individuals helped by the Foundation and hearing their stories is truly motivating—it pushes me to do more. Youth homelessness is something we all need to be aware of, and the Foundation is making a huge difference by helping and raising awareness about what’s happening in our streets.
What events or initiatives are you looking forward to being part of in 2024?
The Backseat SleepOut is particularly impactful in highlighting the struggles young people endure. Experiencing it alongside our peers, while raising donations is humbling. It gives us time to reflect on their challenges. Plus, it’s a great way to meet industry peers who are equally passionate about helping out.
“They’re committed to supporting homeless youth in the long term, understanding that overcoming homelessness takes ongoing assistance and guidance.”
Rebecca Hunter, Marketing & Submission Coordinator at Cox Architecture & FLC co-chair
Lauren Ashmole, ADG General Manager (Business Support and Communications)
Why did you sign up to be part of the Future Leaders Committee?
By leveraging the committee’s expertise and networks, I hope to make a tangible difference, and this is why I signed up.
Having a Future Leaders Committee made up of young and emerging industry leaders is crucial. Young leaders not only bring fresh perspectives and innovative ideas, their unique viewpoints challenge thinking and drive solutions. The Future Leaders Committee enables young leaders to connect, learn from each other’s experiences, build relationships, and empowers the next generation of industry trailblazers.
How would you like to see the committee grow?
I would like to see the Future Leaders Committee grow and develop by leveraging and encouraging young professionals from diverse backgrounds to join the committee. Representation across genders, ethnicities, and companies within the property and construction industry ensures we can collaborate across industry bodies. I’m also looking forward to us working together on projects that create positive impact, including engagement in community and organising events to raise funds for youth homelessness. We all have our own networks and through raising awareness across social media and online campaigns, we can undertake initiatives that leave a lasting impact on youth homelessness.
Amilia Stewart, Associate, Real Estate – MinterEllison
Why did you sign up to be part of the Future Leaders Committee?
After I was introduced to the Foundation in 2023, I looked into their work and thought it was an incredible cause. I immediately wanted to be involved. When the opportunity to join the FLC arose, I just knew I had to put my hat in the ring.
Why is it important to have a future leader’s group?
Increasing property prices, a lack of rental availability, on top of often unaffordable rent, the ability to secure stable housing for many young individuals has become increasingly difficult. Having young leaders in the committee means we can contribute ideas and firsthand insight which are relative to the current challenges our generation face. I am looking forward to being part of that development and I am excited to see what we can achieve collectively.
Tahlia Westlake, Bidding Coordinator at MBMpl Pty Ltd
Why did you sign up to be part of the Future Leaders Committee?
Having been part of the Foundation for a few years now, I’ve seen firsthand the incredible impact it’s had on people’s lives. Meeting individuals helped by the Foundation and hearing their stories is truly motivating—it pushes me to do more. Youth homelessness is something we all need to be aware of, and the Foundation is making a huge difference by helping and raising awareness about what’s happening in our streets. They’re committed to supporting homeless youth in the long term, understanding that overcoming homelessness takes ongoing assistance and guidance.
Why is the Foundation’s work important?
The Foundation is committed to getting out there, raising awareness, and being true drivers of social change. I commend the influence the Foundation already holds within the industry, achieving high profile sponsorships and running events with high coverage and engagement. I am SO excited for our upcoming Trivia Night – this will be a Brisbane first in 2024, and we are partnering with some fantastic vendors and suppliers – it’s sure to be an incredible night.
Eliza Woods, Senior Consultant at BBS Communications Group
Why did you sign up to be part of the Future Leaders Committee?
I’ve been familiar with the Property Industry Foundation’s work for several years now and wanted to take an active role in fundraising and volunteering for a group that creates real, necessary change. The importance of combating youth homelessness has always been a point of interest for me, but it is something I know I can learn much more about. The Future Leaders Committee is a wonderful avenue in which I can do this. I’m very excited to be involved and make a positive change alongside other young professionals.
What events or initiatives are you looking forward to being part of in 2024?
I’m a big trivia fan so I can’t wait to be involved in the Trivia Night and I’m looking forward to helping with planning the Backseat SleepOut.
David Di Marco, National Events Director at The Urban Developer
Why did you sign up to be part of the Future Leaders Committee?
I joined the committee to deepen my engagement with the industry and contribute to creating not only better urban outcomes but also more social and inclusive outcomes. By collaborating with other young and emerging leaders, I believe we can drive positive change and address important issues such as homelessness and disadvantage. I am deeply committed to supporting the Property Industry Foundation’s mission and values. By leveraging my skills, experience, and network within the property industry, I am confident that we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of the FL committee and look forward to contributing to positive change and social impact initiatives within the industry and the community.
Why is it important to have a future leaders group?
The future of the property industry lies in the hands of young and emerging leaders who bring fresh perspectives, innovative ideas, and a passion for positive change. By fostering the development of young talent and empowering them to lead, we can drive innovation, diversity, and sustainability in the industry. While homelessness presents a daunting challenge, it is solvable. The Foundation empowers our industry to make meaningful contributions tailored to our expertise – through the act of building.
