A timely release that celebrates women’s achievements while addressing barriers to leadership in the built environment.
The Women in Housing and Construction Network (WHCN) is proud to announce the release of Brick Queens: Behind the Skyline, a new book by Flora Anne, Managing Director of Housing TV Africa and Founder of WHCN. The publication shines a spotlight on the resilience and leadership of women who are redefining Africa’s housing, finance, and construction sectors, while addressing the barriers that continue to limit women’s full participation in the built environment.
At a time when conversations about gender equality, leadership, and inclusion are gaining momentum across Africa, Brick Queens arrives as both a celebration and a call to action. The book tells the stories of trailblazing women in housing, finance, and construction—industries that have for decades been dominated by men, yet are now being reshaped by the bold contributions of women.
Why This Book Matters
Housing and construction are at the heart of every nation’s development. They determine not only how we live but also how economies grow. Yet, women remain underrepresented in key decision-making roles within this sector. Brick Queens: Behind the Skyline addresses this gap by shining a light on the women who are pushing boundaries, redefining leadership, and ensuring that the industry becomes more inclusive and sustainable.
From female architects and real estate developers to lawyers, surveyors, and corporate leaders, the book reveals their journeys—marked by resilience, innovation, and determination. These women are not simply breaking into the industry; they are changing its narrative.
A Tribute and a Resource
Flora Anne describes the book as both a tribute and a resource.
“This book is a tribute to women who are building Africa in ways that go beyond physical structures,” she explains. “They are laying the foundations for mentorship, inclusivity, and economic empowerment that will outlast our generation.”
For readers, the book offers not only inspiring stories but also practical lessons. It tackles real challenges women face in the built environment—ranging from limited access to finance and land rights, to gender bias in the boardroom. It also highlights strategies for success: mentorship, collaboration, leadership training, and the courage to challenge stereotypes.
Amplifying WHCN’s Mission
At WHCN, we believe that Brick Queens: Beyond the Skyline is more than just a publication—it is a movement. It echoes our mission to:
• Celebrate women’s achievements in the built environment.
• Encourage mentorship so younger women can learn from seasoned professionals.
• Promote economic empowerment by encouraging access to finance, land ownership, and leadership roles.
• Foster collaboration and networking across housing, construction, and finance.
By spotlighting real-life stories of women who have risen to leadership positions, the book sends a clear message: women are not just participants in housing and construction—they are leaders, innovators, and decision-makers.
Inspiring the Next Generation
One of the strengths of Brick Queens lies in its intergenerational outlook. It does not only highlight established leaders but also emphasizes the importance of mentoring and preparing the next generation. Young women entering architecture, construction management, surveying, real estate, and related fields will find role models whose journeys prove that success is possible, even against the odds.
Availability
Brick Queens: Behind the Skyline is now available.
It is a must-read for industry professionals, policymakers, students, and anyone passionate about gender equality and nation-building through housing and construction.
Join the Movement
The Women in Housing and Construction Network invites all women across Africa and beyond to engage with the themes of Brick Queens. Share your reflections, join our conversations, and become part of a growing community of women committed to shaping the future of Africa’s built environment.
As Flora Anne notes, “The future of housing and construction will be incomplete without women. This book is proof that our voices matter, our contributions matter, and our leadership is shaping the skylines of tomorrow.”
