IWD 2026: Female Founder Interviews – Black Women in Real Estate

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Celebrating International Women’s Day 2026 we spoke to female founder, Hannah Afolabi, Founder and CEO of Black Women In Real Estate and Mood and Space, a development company that supports clients in embedding social value in their development vision and strategy as well as efficiently managing the processes to deliver community focused buildings and urban neighbourhoods.

BWRE is an organisation that aims to bring together black women in property, creating opportunities for upcoming talent and organising workshops for those already in the industry. She is also Vice Chair of the University of Greenwich’s Construction, Property and Surveying Practices Industry Advisory Board and is on Estates Gazette‘s Diversity & Inclusion Content Advisory Panel, advocating for diverse representation in property.

What was your motivation behind starting your own business?

Honestly, it came from a place of both frustration and hope. I wanted to see more incredible women, who looked like me, being visible and recognised for their contribution to the industry.   

Eventually I realised that instead of wishing things were different, I could create something that was different. So, starting BWRE felt like reclaiming control of the narrative of Black women in the sector.   

What is the hardest and the most joyous part of your role as a female founder?

Being a founder means there’s no hiding place. You carry the decisions, the risk, and the responsibility for people and that can feel intense at times. 

However, there is so much joy in being a founder. For instance, turning a simple idea into something living and breathing is incredibly satisfying. And when you see women thriving in spaces you’ve helped build, it reminds you exactly why you started. 

Are there any barriers women still face in Real Estate that doesn’t get enough attention?

Women face many barriers in real estate. Typically, we talk about representation at the top, but not enough about what it feels like to be both Black and a woman in rooms that weren’t designed with you in mind. Intersectionality adds another layer. You’re navigating assumptions about gender and race at the same time. 

For instance, there is the credibility tax, meaning you have to prove yourself repeatedly. There’s the shift from being seen as a “pet” to a “threat” the moment your ambition becomes visible. And if you didn’t grow up around this industry, the route to promotion isn’t always clear and access isn’t equal. People in the know, benefit from the informal networks, the unwritten rules and the closed-door conversations. 

But the empowering part is that once you recognise the system, you can move strategically. And when you’ve been underestimated, you learn to build power, community – through the likes of BWRE and impact in ways no one can ignore. 

What is your current favourite brand/company and why?

At the moment, Aesop is a brand that I am loving. I am drawn to brands that are intentional, and Aesop is a masterclass in that. It knows exactly who it is and doesn’t dilute itself to chase mass appeal. 

What really stands out to me is the customer experience. From the moment you walk into a store, everything feels considered – the design, the pace, the conversation. You’re not rushed or oversold to; you’re engaged thoughtfully. It feels calm, intelligent and curated. 

Space and experience really matter and I appreciate how Aesop understands atmosphere and culture not just transactions. It makes you feel seen and smart and that’s what builds loyalty. 

What advice would you give women trying to enter real estate or property industry?

Firstly, don’t wait to feel fully ready this industry often rewards confidence over perfection. Back yourself! 

Secondly, learn how the system works. Real estate has formal structures, but the informal networks matter just as much, if not more. So seek out community, find your mentors and sponsors, ask direct questions about promotion pathways, and make sure you understand how decisions are really made. 

Finally, own your perspective. If you are a Black woman, or from any underrepresented background, your lived experience is not a limitation, it’s your superpower. The industry needs broader thinking, different lenses and courageous leadership. 

Do you have any female founders or leaders who have inspired you?

I would say Emma Grede! As a fellow East Londoner, I really love how far she’s gone. Watching someone from a background that feels close to home build global brands at that level is powerful. It expands your sense of what’s possible. 

I admire her commercial focus and the way she’s positioned herself not just as a founder, but as an owner. There’s no apology in her ambition — just clarity and scale. And that’s inspiring. 

BWRE are addressing the issue of under representation of diversity by creating spaces for Black Women to Connect, Empower one another and Grow their reach and influence through a combined voice. BWRE often host networking and panel events at Uncommon. To find out more please discover here.