Oluwakemi, Surveyor
What did you want to be when you grew up?
When I was a child I wanted to be a Power Ranger. Then when I grew up a little I wanted to be a singer and actress. I discussed more realistic career routes in secondary school and post sixth form with career counsellors but I could never find something that truly engaged me. I was always unsure about what I wanted to do. To keep my options open I read Economics at university.
What do you want most in the future?
Quick and productive scientific advances in solving life’s chronic illnesses and diseases humanely. Awareness and empathy from the wider, commuting public about positively making space for people with disabilities in shared spaces. It’s often intimidating using public transport as someone with mobility challenges.
What’s been your biggest achievement to date?
My biggest achievement is continuing on my chronic treatment for stage 4 breast cancer, after having gone through life-changing chemotherapy and surgery following bone cancer.
What’s your advice to other women/girls?
Be vocal, be visible.
What does it mean being a black woman in your industry?
According to the RICS globally women make-up 16% of the qualified workforce and 2% of RICS membership are black. So being a black woman is pretty unique still in my industry.
What school did you go to?
St Mary’s Primary School CE, Blackheath Bluecoats Secondary School and then Bexley Grammar.
What is the most important thing in the world to you?
My husband, he had the idea for this book and he has made it a reality.