ASAQS’ newly elected president, Mosha Senyolo, may describe her appointment as a surprise – but for those around her, it was nothing but expected.
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After all, Senyolo has been shattering glass ceilings for years – and the fact that she is the first black woman to be chosen as president of ASAQS is one of many firsts she has achieved in her career.
“Becoming the first black woman president of such a globally respected organisation was never something I aimed for personally,” Senyolo notes. “However, I am tremendously honoured and filled with gratitude. This achievement stands as a testament to the dedication, unwavering commitment, and deep passion I have for our profession.”
New perspective on established legacy
In 2021, she was appointed as junior vice president at ASAQS (Association of South African Quantity Surveyors), and says that role provided her with invaluable insights and preparation for the presidency.
“I had the opportunity to closely observe the responsibilities of senior leadership within our organisation. I also gained a deep understanding of the ASAQS operations, challenges, and strategic direction.”
She cites collaborating closely with her predecessors – Keith Skinner and Newton Baloyi – as instrumental to her effective leadership and decision-making skills. “Serving as junior vice president taught me the importance of humility, listening to diverse perspectives, and making decisions that prioritise the collective good of our members and the built environment as a whole.”
As president, she hopes to build on the ASAQS legacy while also making some necessary changes.
“With my tenure, I aim to prioritise turning innovative ideas into tangible, measurable achievements which will be built on the strong foundation laid by past presidents,” she explains. “I intend to focus on enhancing member engagement and satisfaction through tailored programs and communication strategies.”
She would also like to see opportunities to expand the association’s influence both locally and internationally, ensuring the ASAQS remains at the forefront of industry standards and advocacy.
“Ultimately, my goal is to foster a culture of continuous improvement, where every initiative contributes to our collective success and the advancement of our profession.”
Patriotism at the heart of her dedication
Senyolo says though the challenges are not to be taken lightly, she is excited about the future of Quantity Surveying in South Africa.
“Beyond traditional cost estimation and management roles, quantity surveyors are increasingly recognised for our ability to provide strategic insights and mitigate risks on behalf of clients, thereby maximising returns on investment for diverse stakeholders.”
She acknowledges that it takes a lot of time and commitment to serve on the ASAQS board, and says the simple reason for her dedication is “patriotism” – a value which drives her in her personal and professional life.
“My first inspiration was my father, Mr. Thabo Senyolo, who has been noted by the School of Construction, Economics and Management at Wits University to be the first black-qualified Quantity Surveyor. Patriotism, in my lived experience, embodies a belief in something greater than oneself. I draw inspiration from fellow South Africans who zealously represent both their professions and our nation.
“South Africa has achieved much to be proud of—our advancements and global influence are testament to this. The ASAQS epitomises these enduring values, navigating challenges with resilience. It is our collective duty to uphold this legacy, placing the common good above individual interests.”
