2025 Women in CRE: Zeynep Ekemen, Z Realty Group

What has been the most rewarding project or deal you’ve worked on in your career, and why?

One of the most rewarding parts of my career has been brokering dozens of deals with The Learning Experience, a national childcare brand. These projects go beyond real estate - they help shape communities and support working families. Knowing that each center I help bring to life becomes a safe, educational environment for children and a smart investment for developers is what makes this work so fulfilling.

What advice would you give to a woman considering a career in commercial real estate?

Own your space - confidently and unapologetically. Commercial real estate can be intimidating, but don’t shrink yourself to fit into outdated molds. Know your worth, learn the business inside and out, and lead with both grit and grace. The industry needs more women who are bold enough to break barriers and smart enough to build empires.

What skill or quality do you believe is essential for success in your field today?

Resilience. Real estate is not for the faint of heart - it demands grit, agility, and the ability to problem-solve under pressure. Deals fall apart, markets shift, and timelines change, but staying calm, creative, and committed is what sets top brokers apart. Success in this field isn’t just about sales; it’s about leading with confidence and delivering results no matter the challenge.

If you could change one thing about the CRE industry, what would it be and why?

I’d change the outdated mindset that still questions women’s presence at the table. The commercial real estate industry is evolving, but there’s still a gap when it comes to recognizing women as deal-makers, decision-makers, and developers. I’d like to see more women not just participating - but leading, owning, and reshaping the future of the industry.