Nina Dube, one of the first property studies students who graduated from UCT in 2001, has been recognised for the significant role that she plays within Barclays Africa (ABSA), and in a short space of time has moved through the ranks to fulfil an often difficult and challenging position. At a gala dinner held in October, Dube received the Young Achiever Award (under 35) from the Women’s Property Network.

The awards honour and celebrate remarkable women doing exceptionally well in South Africa’s property sector. They recognise outstanding leadership, inspiration, vision and innovation in organisations that have stepped up and shaped women’s roles within the private and public sectors.

Dube started off studying construction studies at UCT before changing to the new property studies degree, which really excited her. She said, “The course gave a solid base for all aspects of the property industry and I have seen several graduates taking a multitude of directions with Property Studies behind them. It opens all sorts of doors from broking to property valuations, to investment and asset management opportunities to mention but a few.”

She is presently the Chief Credit Officer, Commercial Property Finance, at ABSA. On receiving the award, she said, “I am completely humbled by the award and grateful at the same time. In my mind, I have always worked hard and dedicated myself wholeheartedly to my role whatever that has been and this is a great acknowledgement of that to me. Once the dust settled, I must say I find myself quite delighted.”

Kathy Evans, a senior lecturer in the department, who lectured Dube, said, “She is a really delightful young woman and has done very well and the achievement of this award is a huge accolade. She has been responsible for the employment of a number of our graduates who have worked under her guidance. I am very proud of her.”