The Urban Land Institute (ULI), Toronto chapter, is marking 10 years of promoting women in the commercial real estate and development sectors. After a decade of advocating, building professional networks and celebrating the contributions of more than 280 champions throughout the industry’s many disciplines, the women’s leadership initiative (WLI) is sharpening its emphasis on career growth opportunities and industry inclusivity.

“It is undeniable the reach our programming and immeasurable life-long connections that women have built by being associated with WLI,” observe current co-chairs, Christine Chea, director of planning and development with Osmington Gerosfsky Development Corporation, and Audrey Jacob, managing director with Arcadis. “We are pivoting and clarifying our mission to focus on advancing women in the industry. Our programming will reflect this shift from its focus of spotlighting to a focus of lifting and advancing.”

That will include efforts to build purposeful networks that provide active mentorship and sponsorship for emerging women leaders. Advocacy for equitable opportunities and outreach to share real estate and city-building expertise with the broader community will be key to that agenda.

“At a time when choices cannot be made lightly and uncertainty looms in every decision made, industry members must remember that we are designing and building for people,” Chea and Jacob assert.

ULI Toronto’s women’s leadership initiative is affiliated with ULI’s global efforts. More than 40 chapters in eight countries also participate.