#WomensMonth: Celebrating Profica’s fearless females

As we celebrate Women’s Month in South Africa, it is important to recognise the victories as well as the challenges that many women continue to face within our country. In the property and construction sectors which have traditionally been male dominated, we’re seeing more women becoming involved. This month we will be celebrating Profica’s fearless females, and we’re chatting to Marion Gularie who is an assistant project manager at Profica.

What gets you up in the morning?
The thought of being able to learn something new and the achievement that each day may hold for me. Also the thought that each day brings me a step closer to achieving my life dream.

Tell us a bit more about what you bring to the Profica team.
I’m a reliable and dependable team member who contributes to our team achieving its goals and success.

What word (or two) would your colleagues use to describe you?
A go-getter.

What do you most love about what you do?
The thrill of seeing a magnificent usable space come to life from an empty shell.

What are some of the challenges you face working in a male dominated industry?
The stereotype of people assuming the construction industry is not a place for a woman. However, over the projects that I’ve worked on I have noted more and more people giving me the chance to take the lead.

What advice would you give to other young women who want to be in this industry?
Do not shy away from standing up and giving your opinion, particularly in male-dominated meetings. You will be surprised at just how many will listen attentively. Be bold and take that step!

What would you like to see women do more of in your industry?
To take more leadership roles in construction, be that as main contractor, the lead civil engineer, lead PM, or lead architect.

Why did you choose to work at Profica?
Two main things, equal opportunities for all and strong systems orientation.

How does Profica support women within the organisation?
We’ve recently had a series of promotions in which the majority were women. This goes to show that your effort as a woman is not undermined but is noticed and appreciated. This to me personally is a big deal.