Wapnick comfortable in a male-dominated world
have the confidence, self-belief and determination to push through to higher levels. Do not think that just because objectively you deserve the promotion it will spontaneously happen. You have to make it happen. history of discrimination. Women have excelled in business and in the various professions which are demanding and there is no real reason for them not to do the same on the directorate of companies listed on the JSE. If you think chauvinism is dead you are wrong. Women need to be assertive and to promote themselves more. The ability to resist being bullied also helps. David Ben Gurion (Israel’s first prime minister) used to call Golda Meir, Israel’s first and the world's third female prime minister, the best man in the government. My take on that is that the best man for the job is a woman. point in going to the trouble and expense of having them on board if I do not. I also like to keep in touch with the views of our investors and other stakeholders. I prefer to achieve our objectives by consensus although I do not mind flexing my muscles when it becomes necessary.
Create a support system that enables you to pursue your dreams. Set goals and do not let detractors or difficult situations along the way deter you. Be prepared to work hard and to have to sometimes tough it out.
I am a great believer in the future of the listed property sector underpinned as it is with bricks and mortar. As with any asset class there will be ups and downs. Property investment is for the long term, a marathon not a sprint. The introduction of Reits also brings a new dimension to the property investment sector. grow them and ensure that they are sustainable — with good growth prospects, built on sound ethical principles, with strong corporate governance and, last but by no means least, strong balance sheets.
Between my responsibilities as chairwoman of Octodec Investments and Premium Properties and my legal practice, which also entails a lot of reading and preparation, being a doting mom to my two gorgeous sons and running a home, I do not really have much spare time. I do gym daily and occasionally treat my family to an exotic home-cooked meal. I also enjoy going to the theatre and the odd game of golf with my friends and family.