More than Just Making up the Numbers – Growing in the Nest

Charles Eames said and I quote:

Design is an expression of purpose, and it may (if it is good enough) later be judged as art; design depends largely on constraints, and it is a method of action.

The words – Design, Purpose and Action, as taken from the quote above, accurately define, both what I stand for as well as my experiences so far being a part of the Design and Project Development team at Afriland Properties.

There is an overlapping similarity in my personal values and the values of the organisation. This has brought about a zest in me that grows larger with each passing day. I wake up daily ready to face professional challenges (at Afriland Properties, those are growth opportunities), knowing fully well that the needed support from team members as well as other departments will ensure success in the attainment of set goals.

It has become evident, during my time at Afriland Properties, the need to unlearn some things, the need to re-learn, and the overall need to add knowledge. In the property and construction industry, new materials and methods evolve as the world continues to embrace technology and all its enablers. Credit to the enabling work environment at Afriland, I am encouraged to search for answers where there are blocks, and I am encouraged to give, give and keep giving.

The reason why plants grow well isn’t limited to soil nutrients. Yes, those are important, however if the proper environmental factors aren’t in place, growth would be rather unrealisable. This explains what Afriland Properties does to its staff, it not only receives from you, but also gives you an environment that fosters growth. This is very important to any upwardly mobile professional who wants to carve a niche in any environment where they ply their craft. Millennial in classification and Gen – Z at heart, my goal is to reach for the sky and then define new heights.

My role as Project Architect / Project Manager has taken me beyond solely developing and conceptualising designs, to one where I am actually able to confidently take ownership of projects and see them through to the end. As a creative, there is delight when you see your creations come to life and an extra joy when you are involved in the process of bringing it to life. It gives a sense of belonging and purpose.

There is a thrill when I brainstorm with my colleagues; top notch professionals who have earned their stripes in the industry through hard work and smart thinking. We exchange ideas, information and learn from one another. At one particular time, I recall solving a software issue for a team member and the genuine appreciation that came with it. Ahhh that felt so good! I do not only give to my organisation, the organisation also gives back to me, now that’s a kind of relationship anyone wants; a healthy one!

When I hum on my way back from work, the tune is a cheery one and my legs are not weary. My fingers are not numb in frustration and my mind is not downcast when the thought flashes that I have to resume the next day. I feel happy, my steps are assured and my mind, even though incubating, is thinking of how to upscale my work to grow the organisation. I feel valued and I’m spurred on to even add more value.

According to The Shaw Academy, a healthy career path requires 4 items: learning, networking, flexibility, readiness to accept change. In the nest at Afriland Properties Plc, I am more than just making up the numbers. I am standing tall and I feel the same way with all the members of staff here. Our numbers are all integral digits in the register.