“2024 has proven to be another fantastic year for CPA NextGen, allowing the committee to continue with its ambitious agenda and amplify the voices of the upcoming generation of professionals in the sector. The dedication of the group is reflected in the increased quantity and quality of our events, providing greater access than ever to the NextGen network.
“It has and continues to be a pleasure to lead the CPA NextGen committee through what has been a busy and productive year. Alongside continuing to represent young industry professionals in the City, the committee’s work has been guided by three priorities: supporting the City Corporation’s Destination City vision, promoting D,E&I in the City and an increasing focus on sustainability.
“We kicked off the new year with our NextGen Winter Reception, where we heard from Antonia Jennings, the youngest ever Chief Executive of the Centre for London. Later in the year at our Summer Reception our guest speaker was Muyiwa Oki, the youngest ever RIBA President. These were, both hugely inspirational speakers for our NextGen audience.
“We got out and about exploring the City’s landmarks, buildings, public spaces and curiosities, contextualising the history and future development of the Square Mile with an insightful walking tour for members that we held in June.
“We asked questions such as ‘what’s next? The future of the office’ and ‘how do we bring the next generation to the City?’ in a series of blog posts published on our website.
“We published our guidebook on Faith & Religion, completing our series of Diversifying Real Estate publications.
“We also published our major research report on AI & the Built Environment, which was coupled with a launch event with a presentation by Cecilia Lindstrom, author of the report, and an expert panel discussion hosted by CPA NextGen Vice Chair, CO-RE’s Alex Thorpe.
“One of my personal highlights was the Southwark in Focus seminar at Friar’s Yard which unpacked trends in development and investment in the London borough. It was a great panel discussion which included Emma Cariaga, Joint Head of Canada Water & Head of Residential, British Land and Neil Kirby, Head of Sustainable Growth, London Borough of Southwark and which was expertly chaired by CPA NextGen committee member, Landsec’s Sophie Morgan.
“Committee member Luke Jebb and WPA NextGen Chair Rupert Calvert outlined their top tips and tricks for networking ahead of our most recent event, our NewGen Quick Connect Session. Teaming up with the WPA and BCO NextGen committees, hosted by Gerald Eve’s Beth Hawkins and AECOM’s Katie Leitch the breakfast session was aimed at those with less than three years industry experience. An immediate success, mentors and mentees alike, left with energy and optimism for the future of our built environment.
“In 2025, we look forward to continuing our collaboration and providing opportunities for young industry professionals across the City to develop their careers.
“Thank you to our NextGen champion, G&T, for its invaluable support for our work.”
Leila Gray – CPA NextGen Chair, Sheppard Robson
The CPA NextGen initiative supports and champions the next generation of industry leaders in the City’s property industry. We organise bespoke events and activities targeted at younger members of staff from CPA member companies. To find out more about CPA NextGen and to get involved please contact us at NextGen@CWPA.org.uk.
