As the president of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Washington, I am honored to share the mission, challenges and progress of our amazing organization. Our industry is dynamic, ever-evolving and filled with incredible opportunities. To truly realize the potential of our profession, we focus on empowering one another, especially women navigating the ever-changing profession of real estate. This responsibility is defined in the heart of our mission: We are a network of successful REALTORS®, advancing women as business leaders in the industry and in the communities we serve. 

The Women’s Council of REALTORS® is a network that stands at the forefront of advocating for women in this field. Our mission is to influence the growth of women leaders and increase our presence in decision-making roles within the real estate industry. We are not just a support group; we are a powerful community that fosters collaboration, education and mentorship with women, men and our amazing non-REALTOR® strategic partners. 

Over the past year, our networks have been working hard with our membership, and many of our events have attracted record attendance. From our educational conferences to networking mixers, we have created spaces where women and men can learn from one another, share experiences and cultivate relationships that last a lifetime. 

This year, some of our local networks have implemented initiatives aimed at professional development, such as our mentorship program that pairs seasoned REALTORS® with newcomers. This has not only helped to bridge the knowledge gap but has also fostered an environment of camaraderie and support. The testimonials from participants have been overwhelmingly positive, proving that when women uplift each other, we can achieve extraordinary results and relationships. 

At the Women’s Council, our work is far from over. As we progress, we continue to advocate for policies that support homeownership, private property rights and strong focus on equity in real estate leadership. The statistics are sobering: while women represent a significant portion of the real estate workforce, they often face barriers that hinder their career advancement. Issues such as pay disparity, lack of representation in leadership roles and the challenges of work-life balance are still prevalent. 

As REALTORS®, we have a unique opportunity to influence policies at both local and state levels. By engaging with lawmakers and participating in advocacy groups, we can push for legislation that benefits our industry. By developing leaders, we can equip them with the confidence and resources to impact our profession. We are active participants to ensure that women are not only included in the conversation but are bringing their experience and knowledge to the decisions being made. 

Inclusivity is another cornerstone of our vision. We strive for an industry where every woman, regardless of her background, feels welcomed and valued. This means creating a culture where diverse perspectives are encouraged and respected. Our differences should be seen as strengths that contribute to our collective success. 

We encourage all members to actively seek out opportunities to collaborate with women and men from different backgrounds and fields. Whether through joint ventures, community outreach, or simply sharing best practices, we can broaden our horizons and learn from one another. When we welcome diversity, we not only enrich our own lives but also enhance the services we provide to our clients. 

Another key aspect of our growth as REALTORS® is education. The real estate landscape is constantly changing, and it is imperative that we stay informed about industry trends, technology and market shifts. The Women’s Council of REALTORS® is dedicated to providing our members with access to high-quality educational resources through wcr.org and National Conferences. I encourage everyone to take advantage of the workshops, webinars and designation programs that we offer. Investing in your education is investing in your future. Knowledge is power, and as we equip ourselves with the latest information and skills, we position ourselves as leaders in our field. 

As we look to the challenges we have ahead, I want to issue a call to action to every woman and man in our organization. Let us not only uplift one another but also hold each other accountable. Be bold in your aspirations, seek leadership roles and don’t shy away from challenging the status quo. 

We are creating a future where women in real estate are empowered, respected and celebrated. I invite each of you to step into your power, share your voice, and participate actively in our membership as we continue to support and inspire one another and make strides toward a more equitable and inclusive real estate industry. 

I am incredibly proud to be part of such a passionate and dedicated group of women and men who carry the torch of leadership development forward, not just for ourselves but for the generations of women who will follow in our footsteps. We can redefine what it means to be a REALTOR® in Washington and beyond. 

Thank you for your commitment and for being an integral part of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Washington. Cheers to our continued success and the power of collaboration! 

Jennifer Shupe is president of the Women’s Council of REALTORS® Washington.