As socially conscious as we’d like to think that we are, real estate is still a good old boys network, and I usually find myself being one of only a few women in the room whether I’m at a real estate conference, pitching a deal to private equity, or dealing with contractors. And when you factor in that I’m a younger Black woman, that number is even slimmer. I know of so many successful women that are financially secure and could crush it in the investing and development business. There are also so many woman-owned construction companies that have to compete in a male dominated business. I would love to see more women at the table and the men being more deliberate about breaking these networks and being more inclusive.

Black women are the fastest growing segment of entrepreneurs, and women in general are seeking greater financial security. This is my call to the women to collaborate and do deals together whether big or small.