Post by Women's Property Network

On 23 June 2026, BDO hosted the Women's Property Network Western Cape Chapter for the final session in the 2026 Round Table Discussion series, bringing together industry leaders to explore the future of sustainability within the built environment. Opening the morning, Fayaz Mohamed, Partner, BDO Advisory Services, encouraged attendees to focus on creating longevity in development through continuous collaboration and meaningful engagement with relevant stakeholders. The panel discussion, expertly facilitated by Viv G., WPN Western Cape Regional Chair, Managing Director, Asset Matrix, reinforced that ESG is no longer simply a buzzword but a strategic business imperative. Deborah O'Connor, Climate Change & Sustainability Associate Director, BDO, highlighted that sustainability extends far beyond the physical buildings we create. It must be embedded into organisational strategy, governance and decision-making to strengthen accountability, resilience and long-term value. A recurring theme throughout the discussion was the shared passion for the City of Cape Town. While acknowledging the challenges facing the city, the panel emphasised that open communication and stronger collaboration between the City and the private sector are essential to creating thriving, sustainable communities. Developers and businesses remain key contributors to economic growth and investment, particularly at a time when the City of Cape Town receives less than 2% of the national fiscus allocation. Insightful contributions from Mariska Auret, Chief Executive Officer, Rabie Property Developers; Geraldine Liebenberg, Manager: Planning & Property Development Facilitation, City of Cape Town; Laila Razack CA(SA), Chief Financial Officer & Executive Director, Equites Property Fund; and Anthea Houston, Chief Executive Officer, Communicare, explored how responsible leadership, capital allocation, innovation, inclusive development and public-private collaboration are shaping resilient cities and lasting communities. Closing the discussion, Lee-Anne Bac CA(SA), Director, BDO South Africa, reaffirmed BDO's commitment to people, business and South Africa, highlighting that Public-Private Partnerships remain one of the most effective mechanisms for strengthening and enhancing cities across the country. Thank you to BDO, our panelists and everyone who joined us for a thought-provoking morning of conversation, collaboration and shared purpose. Together, we continue building what lasts. #womeninproperty #sustainability #leadership #builtenvironment #wpnsouthafrica

Video Content