Lead, connect and grow together
Leading from the Front is an award-winning women’s community committed to supporting, connecting and uplifting women across the built environment.
- An award-winning EDI initiative
- A cross-sector community for women across the built environment
- In-person events and accessible online webinars
- Support for women at every stage of their career
Space for something new
Leading from the Front began in 2022 after a simple conversation about the women growing through the industry alongside Oyster. There was space for something new: a platform bringing women together across sectors, roles and levels without labels or limitations.
Today, the community brings women together through curated in-person events and engaging online sessions. The aim is simple: create open, inclusive and supportive spaces where real conversations can happen and meaningful connections can be made. It is led by Annelies Kruidenier and Ali Wibroe.
Our vision
To create positive, inclusive experiences where women can show up as themselves, learn from one another, support one another and grow together, while having fun along the way.
What the community talks about
- Confidence, courage and progression
- Imposter syndrome and speaking up
- Working in male-dominated environments
- Returning to work after maternity leave, stress leave or time away
- Mental health, inclusion and allyship
- Leadership, career change and personal growth
Why joinPractical, inclusive and easy to engage with
Whether you are joining as an individual or exploring Leading from the Front for your organisation, the community is designed to be practical, inclusive and easy to engage with.
As an individual
Connect with women who understand the reality of working in male-dominated environments. Attend accessible events, ask honest questions, build confidence and gain perspectives beyond your own organisation.
- A supportive network
- Connection beyond your organisation
- Regular in-person events and online webinars
- A safe space to grow, ask questions and try out ideas
As an organisation
Offer female employees external community support, development opportunities and access to a cross-organisational network. Explore event partnerships, workshops and support for internal women’s networks.
- External community support across public sector, real estate and the wider built environment
- A community aligned with female representation and progression goals
- Development and retention support through participation
- Partnership conversations for events, workshops and internal networks
EventsEvents that create real connection
Leading from the Front brings women together to connect, share experiences and learn from one another in a supportive, cross-sector environment. Events combine open discussion, practical learning and meaningful networking.
Jingle & Mingle
An end-of-year celebration focused on connection, reflection and positive change.
Make Cannes Colourful
A networking meet-up at MIPIM centred on visibility, community and allyship.
Imposter Syndrome
Honest stories and practical tools for reframing self-doubt and speaking up.
The Property Catwalk
A charity fashion show supporting Dress for Success Greater London.
Women Returning to Work
Practical advice and empathy around maternity leave, stress leave, menopause and other transitions.
Confidence and Courage
A round-table discussion about the confidence gap, progression and leading with courage.
In actionSee the community in action
Follow Leading from the Front on Instagram for event highlights, honest conversations, speaker insights and the latest ways to get involved.
@leadingfromthefrontt
Watch more community moments, and share the community with someone in your network.
Follow us on InstagramMembersWhat members say
The quarterly events and sessions were insightful, professionally delivered, and genuinely supportive. The networking environment was welcoming and energising, and I found real value in the mix of shared experiences and practical career guidance.
- EDI Initiative of the YearREC
- EDI Champion of the Year, Annelies KruidenierProperty Week
Get involvedJoin the Leading from the Front community
There are several ways to get involved, whether you are joining as an individual or representing an organisation.
Stay informed
Register your interest to receive updates on upcoming events, webinars and new initiatives.
Join the WhatsApp & Instagram community
Receive event announcements, resources and key dates.
Attend in person or online
Join regular, accessible events and online sessions in a way that works for you.
Explore a partnership
Discuss event partnerships, workshops or support for your organisation’s internal women’s network.