RE:Futures Launch - Event Summary

On 13 May, we held the RE:Futures Launch following the merger of AREF, the IPF and the BPF to form Real Estate:UK (RE:UK), which also brought together the next-gen networks of each organisation to create RE:Futures.

The evening opened with our Interim Chief Executive, Melanie Leech, welcoming more than 100 delegates and members and setting the tone for what RE:Futures is all about. She highlighted that the network is member-led and that we want to hear the voices of the next generation. The launch of the amalgamation of all three programmes offers members the opportunity to help shape the agenda of the programme.

We then heard from Jo Jackson of SEGRO and Chair of the RE:Futures Steering Committee, who shared the vision and strategy for the programme moving forward.

Grace Pinault of Dentons, Chair of the RE:Futures Early Careers Committee, and Alex Davis of Chalk Hill Partners, Chair of the Future Leaders Committee, also spoke passionately about the opportunities ahead for emerging talent across the industry.

Our RE:Futures Programme Manager, Karine Barsam, then gave an overview of the exciting programme of events and initiatives planned over the coming months. This focused on flagship events, alongside a range of activities, webinars, roundtables and networking opportunities. We have a strong pipeline of engaging content and sessions for members to choose from throughout the year.

When speaking to delegates throughout the networking session, one of the most inspiring aspects of the evening was hearing about the diversity of career journeys represented in the room, from traditional graduate routes to degree apprenticeships and career changers. It was a fantastic reminder that there is no single route into our industry, and that diversity of background and experience makes the sector stronger.

We also received some creative feedback and ideas for future content, including a “Day in the Life” series featuring professionals from across the breadth of the real estate industry. We are excited to start bringing these stories to life and showcasing the many different pathways into the sector.

A huge thank you to Dentons for kindly hosting us.

Most of all, it is fantastic that we have such enthusiastic and committed committee members and industry professionals, all of whom genuinely want to make a difference. The future of real estate is in very good hands!

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to such a successful launch evening.