The Importance of Diverse Leadership in Real Estate
As we celebrate Black History Month, it's crucial to reflect on the role diversity and inclusion play in leadership—especially within the real estate industry. In a special episode of Women in Real Estate, industry leaders Sabrina Brown and Ria Cotton-Landry engaged in a powerful conversation about why representation at the decision-making level matters more than ever. Why Diverse Leadership Matters
Diversity in leadership brings fresh perspectives, fosters innovation, and leads to more equitable outcomes. When decision-makers come from varied backgrounds, they better understand the needs of the communities they serve, ultimately driving positive change within the industry.
However, women—particularly women of color—often face significant barriers when rising to leadership positions. Structural challenges, industry biases, and a lack of representation continue to make it difficult for many to advance. This discussion shed light on these obstacles and, more importantly, provided actionable strategies to foster a more inclusive real estate landscape.
Building an Inclusive Culture
Creating an inclusive industry starts from within organizations. Mentorship, sponsorship, and allyship play critical roles in elevating underrepresented voices. True allyship means more than just supporting diversity initiatives—it means amplifying marginalized voices, challenging biases, and advocating for representation even when those affected aren’t in the room.
As Maya Angelou wisely said, “I did then what I knew how to do. Now that I know better, I do better.” The real estate industry has the opportunity to do better by fostering leadership that reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.
Industry Leaders Driving Change
Sabrina Brown is a respected real estate broker, co-owner of Pure Real Estate School, and national speaker with over 18 years of experience. As the founder of Pink Key Real Estate in Fresno, CA, she is dedicated to fair housing and first-time homeownership. A passionate leader and educator, Sabrina empowers first-time buyers through hands-on training and has received accolades such as the National Association of REALTORS® Fair Housing Champion Award. She serves in leadership roles at local, state, and national levels, including as President of the Madera Association of REALTORS® and Chair of the Broker Engagement Council at NAR. She moderated this important discussion on diversity in real estate leadership.
Ria Cotton-Landry is the Broker-Owner of Cotton Realty, a virtual brokerage focusing on economic development, in addition to residential, commercial, and new development real estate sales. Cotton Realty agents are spread throughout neighboring California counties to strategically meet client goals as a collective organization through the virtual exchange of marketing data and resources. “REALTIST Proud,” Ria currently holds the position of President of the California Association of Real Estate Brokers, the premier network of Black Real Estate Professionals, which includes 11 local boards throughout Northern and Southern California.
Names of mentors mentioned during this episode:
Leslie Appleton-Young
Sabrina Brown
Nikki Fisher
Dr. Koonce
E'mira Torres
Bessie M. King
Pearli Killens
Fran Jackson
Gloria Grant
Kendyl Young
Zdenka Jakulin
Ines Cerri
Theresa Miller
Reva Tolbert
Felicia Duncan
Barb F.
Dr. Miki Lady Luck Elster
Marvis Hardy
Ria Cotton-Landry
Beyond Black History Month
While Black History Month provides a moment to spotlight these issues, the commitment to diversity and inclusion must extend year-round. By continually evaluating and improving leadership practices, organizations can create lasting change and ensure that respect, equity, and opportunity are at the forefront of the industry.
Let’s keep this conversation going—because representation isn’t just important; it’s essential.