Benoy hosts Cocktail & Conversations: Celebrating Equity & Women in Property

Hosted by Maybelyne Ng, Head of Marketing and Communications APAC, the evening began with inspiring sharing sessions from female leaders and a special male ally who offered their unique perspectives on leadership and the importance of equity in the workplace.

Terence Seah, the Director and Head of the Hong Kong, Singapore, and Shenzhen Studios, highlighted the increasing number of significant building and urban projects that are now being designed and managed by women. He mentioned the significance of the role played by women in the industry, with 57% of all employees and 49% of all senior roles held by women across the Benoy Asia Pacific offices.

Teri Tsang, Director and Hong Kong Studio Lead, shared her thoughts on leadership and supporting the next generation. She emphasised the importance of her thoughts on role modeling and how everyone — regardless of gender or position — can make an impact in creating inclusiveness in the organization.

Nana Liu, Senior Associate Director, spoke about her personal leadership style and the challenges she faces in balancing work and life. She discussed the need for finding a balance that works for each individual and the value of self-care.

The evening’s special guest speaker was Ellen Lee Chon, the Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer at Phoenix Property Investors. With more than two decades of experience in private equity, principal investing, and M&A across various industries including real estate, she provided valuable insights, sharing her career journey, workplace experiences and advocated for women to speak up in the workplace.

During the event, attendees were asked a thought-provoking question: ​“What word comes to mind when you think of a woman who has inspired you the most?” The responses were collected through an online poll and displayed in real-time for everyone to see. The top three responses were Mom/​Mum, Love, and Heart/​Elegant/​Kindness (which shared an equal number of votes). The responses highlighted the powerful impact that women can have on those around them, both in their personal and professional lives.

The event concluded with a networking session where attendees mingled over drinks and canapes. It was heartening to see women and men come together, initiating conversations around the topic of leadership, equal opportunities, and equity in the workplace.

The Benoy client cocktail event was highly successful, and we look forward to more inspiring events like this together with our clients and friends. Together we can create a more inclusive society, one that better reflects the needs of the communities we serve.