Making real change in real estate

By supporting Westminster students, local property firms are helping to diversify their sector.

In the heart of London, the University of Westminster is neighbour to the headquarters of many major property firms. This is beneficial in several ways – it means good industry links and prospects for students studying real estate courses. It also gives local real estate organisations an opportunity to do their bit to help diversify the sector.

The property sector is not the most diverse industry. In fact, a 2019 report by consultancy firm Green Park found that the construction and property sector had the lowest Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) representation of the labour market, at 5.1 per cent. Meanwhile, senior management and boards are, for the most part, dominated by men.

But it is making strides. And over the past year, real estate firms have partnered with the University, offering scholarships, events and mentoring to students, to make the industry more inclusive.

In 2021, real estate investment trust Shaftesbury PLC began its partnership with Westminster to offer a life-changing opportunity to a student on the BSc Real Estate course. The Shaftesbury Scholarship, worth up to £40,000, covers full tuition fees for two years of study and annual maintenance so that the scholar can fully dedicate themselves to their studies.

In support of creating opportunities for marginalised young people to advance in the property sector, the scholarship is open to students from disadvantaged backgrounds and priority is given to BAME students.

The first scholar, Nathan, began in September. “Being selected as the first Shaftesbury scholar is a truly lifechanging moment,” he says.

Above: Real Estate BSc student, Nathan, is the first Shaftesbury scholar.

“I am still in complete shock and disbelief that this has happened to me. The significant economic support that is provided as part of the programme will alleviate financial pressures and allow me to fully dedicate myself to my degree.”

Nathan will also benefit from a summer placement at Shaftesbury this year, giving him experience within industry to really set him apart in the graduate market. The second scholar will enrol in September.

Meanwhile, real estate company Savills are supporting Westminster students in other ways. This year, 26 Savills employees signed up as mentors on our Career Mentoring programme. Through these relationships, students can expand their professional networks and gain realistic advice about how to succeed in the property sector.

Furthermore, Savills welcomed BSc Real Estate and MSc Real Estate Development students to their offices, to give them an insight into the UK property markets and emphasise the company’s dedication to diversity and inclusion.

During the visit, students were given a tour of Savills’ Headquarters and took part in a networking session where they had the opportunity to meet directors, associates and wider Savills colleagues.

Through the engagement and opportunities given to Real Estate students, Shaftesbury and Savills are demonstrating their dedication to making the property sector more accessible to people from all backgrounds. Their generous support is enriching the learning experience of Westminster students and contributing to positive social change.

Partner with us

To find out how your organisation can work with Westminster to achieve positive social change, visit: westminster.ac.uk/corporate-giving