An exceptional experience
Candidates selected for this dynamic journey will experience more than an education. Through interactive workshops, mentorship opportunities, and hands-on experiences, students gain insights into every facet of the real estate management business, from operations and financial analysis to sustainability and community engagement. These experiences provide invaluable knowledge and skills that go beyond what can be taught in a classroom, immersing students in the real world of property management.
Tariq Sule: Finding his path
“My journey with IREM began when I had the privilege of serving as a student representative at the IREM Global Summit in Toronto last year,” recalls Tariq Sule of Georgia State University. “That experience was transformative, dispelling any lingering doubts about my chosen career path in real estate. I’m deeply honored to be part of the IREM family and grateful for the community of professionals dedicated to nurturing the success of the next generation.”
Inspired by his experience, Tariq became actively involved with IREM Georgia, where he currently serves on the Emerging Leaders committee. This role has provided him with insights into what it takes to succeed in real estate, further fueling his desire to make a lasting impact in the field.
Tariq hopes to gain several key benefits from his time as an IREM Student Leader:
Networking: Expanding his professional network by connecting with like-minded individuals who share his passion for real estate.
Knowledge: Deepening his understanding of the real estate industry and IREM’s role within it.
Skill development: Honing his leadership skills and gaining practical industry experience.
Mentorship: Learning from seasoned professionals for personal and professional growth.
Contributing to the industry: Bringing fresh perspectives and contributing meaningfully to IREM’s initiatives.
Nesha Ubiles: Leadership rooted in integrity
“Growing up in Brooklyn, New York, and attending Leaders Expeditionary High School instilled in me the importance of being a proactive and compassionate leader,” says Nesha Ubiles of Old Dominion University in Norfolk, Virginia. “My military experience in the U.S. Navy further solidified my understanding of what it means to lead with integrity, resilience, and dedication. Obtaining my real estate license at the age of 23 and successfully representing myself as my own agent to purchase my first property provided firsthand knowledge of the real estate market.”
Nesha views the IREM Student Leaders program as a pivotal step in her career, hoping to gain:
Knowledge: A deeper understanding of property management best practices and industry trends through direct engagement with IREM’s network of experienced professionals.
A broader network: Connecting with industry leaders and fellow aspiring professionals who share her passion for real estate.
Leadership skills: Enhancing her abilities in team collaboration, project management, and effective communication.
Hands-on experience: Sharpening her organizational and interpersonal skills through active participation in industry events.
In addition, Nesha brings fresh perspectives and ideas that add value to IREM’s initiatives, while learning from the organization’s established processes and strategies.
Francis Kaunda: A global perspective
Francis Kaunda, a student with a rich international background, brings unique skills to the IREM Student Leaders program. “I possess effective communication skills and strong problem-solving abilities, which have been instrumental in my academic and professional success,” Francis shares. His commitment to continuous learning is evident through his role as Co-President of the IREM Student Club and his recognition as Student Employee of the Year at UW-Stout for his work as an operations manager.
During his tenure as an IREM Student Leader, Francis aims to:
- Gain a deeper understanding of the real estate management industry and its evolving trends.
- Build meaningful relationships with industry professionals and fellow students to grow personally and professionally.
- Enhance his leadership capabilities and contribute to initiatives promoting sustainability, diversity, and innovation within the industry.
Garrett Swain: A passion for the built environment
Garrett Swain’s journey into real estate management began with a fascination for the built environment. From flipping through architecture books as a child to managing the construction of a horse shade structure for his Eagle Scout project, Garrett’s passion for the industry has been long-standing. “IREM has played an integral role in my education and involvement in the real estate industry,” Garrett explains.
Garrett has already made significant strides in his career, securing his first commercial property management internship through the IREM Utah chapter’s network. He views his recognition as an IREM Student Leader as a pivotal milestone, saying, “I value the connections I have made with the students in the IREM Student Leader cohort and look forward to networking with industry professionals at the Global Summit.” Garrett hopes to continue growing through his IREM experience by:
- Gaining further education through webinars and training opportunities.
- Strengthening his professional network within the IREM community.
- Contributing to the development of initiatives that enhance the real estate management industry.
The IREM Student Leaders program is more than just an educational opportunity; it’s a space where future leaders in real estate management are shaped. Through a dynamic and supportive environment, participants like Tariq, Nesha, Francis, and Garrett are gaining the knowledge, skills, and connections they need to thrive as the next generation of industry professionals. Their stories highlight the transformative impact of the program and underscore its role in preparing students to lead with confidence and innovation in the dynamic world of real estate management.
Meet all the 2024 IREM Student Leaders.