Together for International Women’s Day 2026

For International Women’s Day this year, we’re highlighting the voices of women across Knight Frank who are shaping the future of work — from early‑career talent to those who are new to the business or stepping into newly promoted roles. In line with the UN theme Balance the Scales, their insights show what inclusion, fairness and opportunity mean to the next generation of women in property.

Women from across our Australian business shared how important belonging, fairness and confidence are for progressing their careers. Their reflections remind us that culture is built through everyday actions, not only through policies or programs.

Together, their stories highlight how our people are helping to balance the scales in our own workplaces:

• Women described a fair workplace as one where “every person is valued, respected, and treated equally” and where people “feel safe to express their perspectives… without fear of discrimination or bias.”
• They also spoke about wanting to help build cultures that are inclusive, motivating and genuinely caring, where everyone feels they belong.
• And they encouraged young women entering the industry to pursue it with confidence and passion, noting that property offers variety and opportunities to grow.

Grace Mahoney, National Bids & Submissions Executive, Tenant Representation OSS – NSW

On the theme Balance the Scales

• What kind of workplace culture do you hope to help build as your career grows?

As I grow in my career, I want to help create a workplace that is inclusive, motivating, and truly caring. Since we spend so much time at work, it should be a place where everyone feels valued and supported. When people feel like they belong, they do their best, and the whole organisation benefits. Building a positive, people-first culture is key to long-term success.

On the future

• What would a truly fair workplace look like to you?

To me, a truly fair workplace is one where everyone is valued, respected, and treated equally. It’s a place that welcomes all kinds of diversity—across gender, culture, religion, background, and identity. In this kind of environment, people feel safe to share their ideas, speak up, and be themselves without worrying about discrimination or bias.

• What would you say to another young woman thinking about a career in real estate or property?

My biggest advice for young women pursuing a career in real estate is to go for it with confidence and passion. There are so many opportunities and different paths to grow in this industry, and there’s definitely a place for strong, capable women. Surround yourself with people who support you. Look for mentors who inspire you, stand up for you, and are happy to share what they know. Don’t be afraid to ask questions, speak up, and believe in yourself, even if you’re the youngest in the room. You belong there just as much as anyone else. In my experience, real estate rewards resilience, curiosity, and being genuine. Trust yourself, bring your whole self to work, and remember that your perspective matters.

Just for fun

• What’s one thing on your bucket list?

I feel lucky to have already done many of the big things on my bucket list, but one thing I still want to do is hike in Japan—maybe the Nakasendo Trail or climb Mount Fuji. I’ve never been to Japan, and I love Japanese culture and food, so it seems like the perfect adventure.

Sophia Nikias (not new but newly promoted) Property Manager, Asset Management Services - ACT

On the theme Balance the Scales

• What kind of workplace culture do you hope to help build as your career grows?

As a young woman in the industry, I’ve always felt safe sharing ideas, voicing concerns, and contributing to conversations without feeling dismissed, and that’s the kind of inclusive environment I want to help strengthen. I want to help build a workplace culture that is collaborative and focused on continuous learning, where people feel comfortable asking questions, learning from each other, and working together to achieve shared goals. I also believe in a culture where people take pride in their work, own their responsibilities, and follow through reliably.

 On the future

• What would a truly fair workplace look like to you?

To me, fairness means every person has access to the tools, mentorship, and flexibility they need to excel. As a young female in the property industry, I’ve felt the impact of being included, listened to, and respected, which I believe has shaped how I view a fair workplace. Ultimately, a fair workplace is one where people are supported to grow, trusted to contribute, valued for who they are and the work they deliver and provided equal pathways for development and progression. 

• What would you say to another young woman thinking about a career in real estate or property?

I’d tell them to go for it! The industry is full of opportunities. If you show up with confidence, professionalism and willingness to learn, you can go far. There are so many pathways within the industry, and you can shape a career that suits your strengths. Most importantly, I’d remind her that her voice and perspective are valuable, and she deserves to be in the room, contribute, and grow.

Renee Wilton, Concierge Experience Partner - VIC

On the theme Balance the Scales

• What kind of workplace culture do you hope to help build as your career grows?

I want to help create a workplace where everyone feels valued, welcomed, and appreciated. I also think it’s important to build strong professional relationships so we can support each other as a team.

On the future

• What would a truly fair workplace look like to you?

A truly fair workplace makes sure everyone has a voice, no matter their job title. Every employee brings something valuable, and together we create a better place to work.

• What would you say to another young woman thinking about a career in real estate or property?

Whether you’re interested in tenant engagement, leasing, management, or something else, the property industry has many ways for you to grow your career and follow your interests.

Just for fun

• What’s one thing on your bucket list?

A dream of mine is to see the northern lights in Iceland! I look forward to making it a reality.

Isobel Dolling, Property Administrator Asset Management Services – SA

On the theme Balance the Scales

• What kind of workplace culture do you hope to help build as your career grows?

I hope to help build a workplace culture where everyone feels supported and valued. I want to encourage people to grow their capabilities. The aim is to create fairness and collaboration, with the shared goal of strengthening the business.

On the future

• What would a truly fair workplace look like to you?

A truly fair workplace gives opportunities on skills, experience, and ability, not on assumptions or stereotypes. It’s a place where everyone starts equally, is judged by their work, and feels confident to succeed.

• What would you say to another young woman thinking about a career in real estate or property?

Sometimes, you might find you’re one of the only women in the room. Don’t let that stop you. Keep believing in yourself, stay true to who you are, and keep working hard.

 Just for fun

• What’s one thing on your bucket list?

Skydiving in New Zealand!

Jade Liebenberg, Facilities Coordinator Asset Management Services – QLD

On the theme Balance the Scales

• What kind of workplace culture do you hope to help build as your career grows?

I want to help create a stable and flexible workplace where people look forward to coming to work, because we work hard and genuinely enjoy the team we're part of. For me, it’s people first, colleagues second – when work takes up such a big part of our lives, our team and culture matter most, so we should take care of them.

On the future

• What would a truly fair workplace look like to you?

A fair workplace is one where everyone is afforded the same opportunities and where your effort drives your progression. If you work hard, you should be rewarded for that – regardless of politics or any other agendas. The best person for the job should always be chosen based on ability and performance, not age, gender, or anything else.

• What would you say to another young woman thinking about a career in real estate or property?

Property is an exciting field with lots of different directions, so you’ll definitely find something that fits you. Jump in, work hard, and listen carefully. Your coworkers have so much experience and knowledge to share. Take in as much as you can, and your career will grow.

Just for fun

• What’s one thing on your bucket list?

To volunteer in a third-world country.

Georgina Malseed, Associate Director, Asset Management Services – VIC

On the theme Balance the Scales

• What kind of workplace culture do you hope to help build as your career grows?

As my career grows, I’d like to help create a workplace culture where people feel supported, respected and comfortable contributing their ideas. I believe the strongest teams are built through collaboration and by valuing different perspectives.

I’m also passionate about helping newcomers in the industry develop. Starting out can be daunting, so being able to share knowledge, provide guidance, and support others as they grow in their careers is really important to me. 

On the future 

• What would a truly fair workplace look like to you?

To me, a truly fair workplace gives everyone the same chance to grow and be recognised for their work. It’s a place where people feel supported as they develop and are comfortable sharing their ideas. It’s also about building a culture that values different perspectives, and people feel comfortable being themselves at work. When teams feel supported and respected, they collaborate more effectively and achieve better outcomes for everyone.

• What would you say to another young woman thinking about a career in real estate or property?

Real estate and property offer a lot and can lead to a very rewarding career. Every day is different, and there are many different paths you can follow in this field. Don’t hesitate to ask questions, learn from others, and believe in yourself. It’s a great industry for building strong relationships, learning new things, and growing your career. 

Just for fun

• What’s one thing on your bucket list?

One thing I’d love to do is join a cattle drive in the US. I’ve always enjoyed being outdoors, and the thought of spending a few weeks in the countryside, riding and helping move cattle really appeals to me. It would be an incredible experience and a great adventure.