SOUTH AFRICAN UNION OF STUDENTS (SAUS): NATIONAL STUDENT ACCOMMODATION INDABA/SUMMIT 2026 HELD IN DURBAN FROM 2 TO 6 JULY 2026.
What a rewarding engagement. It was a privilege for our team at Mbatha Walters & Simpson to present at the South African Union of Students National Student Accommodation Indaba, where we explored the economics of student accommodation and the realities behind delivering sustainable student housing.
Drawing on decades of cost management expertise and practical project experience, we unpacked what it truly takes to finance, design and deliver quality accommodation, while highlighting the structural challenges that continue to shape the sector. Our objective was not simply to present figures, but to encourage informed dialogue around practical solutions that balance affordability, quality and long-term sustainability.
Our message was clear: South Africa’s student accommodation challenge cannot be solved by any single stakeholder. Meaningful progress will require collaboration between students, government, higher education institutions, financiers and the private sector, working together to create an environment where investment and social impact reinforce one another. We are grateful to SAUS for creating a platform for robust engagement and look forward to continuing these important conversations as we collectively work towards expanding access to safe, dignified and sustainable student accommodation.
#StudentAccommodation #SAUS #StudentHousing #HigherEducation #Infrastructure #Development #QuantitySurveying #MbathaWaltersAndSimpson
Appointment of Brenda-Lynn Nell as Associate Director
Dear Clients, Colleagues, Partners and Stakeholders,
It gives us great pleasure to announce the appointment of Brenda-Lynn Nell as Associate Director of Mbatha Walters & Simpson, effective 1 June 2026.
Since joining our business in 2014, Brenda has played a pivotal role in strengthening our Cape Town operations. Through her professionalism, technical expertise, unwavering commitment to client service, and exceptional leadership, she has earned the trust and respect of colleagues, clients, and industry partners alike.
Brenda has successfully led and supported several strategic commissions across both the public and private sectors, while providing invaluable guidance to our clients and project teams. Her contribution has been instrumental in enhancing the visibility, credibility, and growth trajectory of our Western Cape practice.
This appointment reflects not only Brenda’s achievements to date, but also our confidence in her ability to help shape the future of Mbatha Walters & Simpson. As Associate Director, she will continue to anchor our Cape Town office, strengthen client relationships, mentor emerging professionals, and support the firm’s broader growth strategy across the Western Cape and beyond.
On behalf of the Board, Management Team, and all our staff, we extend our sincere congratulations to Brenda on this well-deserved achievement. We look forward to her continued leadership and contribution as we collectively pursue excellence in everything we do.
Please join us in congratulating Brenda-Lynn on this significant professional milestone.
QINISANI MBATHA APPOINTMENT TO MINISTERIAL ADVISORY COMMITTEE
Dear Colleagues
The firm congratulates our CEO, Qinisani Mbatha on his
appointment to the Construction & Infrastructure Advisory
Committee by the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure,
Republic of South Africa, the Hon. Dean Macpherson.
This is indeed a high honour and recognises the standing with which
Qinisani is held in the Built Environment Industry and his many years
of service and contribution to the Boards & Committees of both the
ASAQS and SACQSP.
The role of the Advisory Committee Members in conjunction with
the Asset Management Committee is to:
- Attend periodic in -person or virtual meetings
- Offer expert input of key departmental initiatives
- Help identify risks, opportunities & potential partnerships
- Review and provide feedback on strategic proposals and
implementation plans/li> - Act as ambassadors for the Department’s turn-around agenda/li>
We wish Qinisani every success during his term of office.
Chris Rudham PrQS
MW&S Consultant
Advancing Careers in Quantity Surveying: The Case for Growth in Medium to Large Firms
| The Case for Growth in Medium to Large Firms Over Small Enterprises
Abstract This article explores the advantages of newly qualified quantity surveyors advancing their careers within medium to large firms, rather than starting their own small businesses. It highlights the challenges faced by small firms in investing in research and development due to financial constraints and the negative impact of competitive pricing on human capital and resource upskilling. The article advocates for consolidating efforts within established firms to drive innovation, enhance skills, and secure the future of the quantity surveying profession through strategic growth and collaborative development. Introduction As the construction industry continues to evolve, we are witnessing a growing number of newly qualified quantity surveyors choosing to either join established firms or venture out to start their own practices. While entrepreneurship in any profession is commendable, I believe there are significant advantages to encouraging these talented professionals to advance their careers within medium to large quantity surveying (QS) firms, rather than everyone starting their own small businesses. In this article, I will explore why this approach can benefit not only the individual professionals but also the QS profession as a whole, particularly in the context of research and development, resource upskilling, and sustainable growth. The Pitfalls of Starting Small Firms: Challenges in Research and Development One of the primary challenges faced by small QS firms is the lack of resources and time to invest in research and development (R&D). When professionals start their own practices, the pressure to make ends meet often takes precedence over innovation. This focus on survival and generating immediate income can limit the ability to explore new technologies, methodologies, and approaches that are critical to keeping pace with an ever-changing industry. In medium to large QS firms, there is a structured framework and dedicated resources to drive R&D initiatives. These firms have the capacity to invest in new ideas, explore innovative solutions, and adopt best practices that will ultimately benefit not just the firm but the industry at large. Encouraging more professionals to grow within these environments will lead to greater contributions to the field of quantity surveying, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement. The Reality of Negative Competition Another concern in the profession is the increasing trend of competition being used as a positive tool, which, in reality, can be detrimental when not approached strategically. Small firms often resort to offering high discounts to win clients, creating a race to the bottom that undervalues the profession. While this approach may seem like a quick win to attract projects, it often undermines the ability to invest in human capital and the upskilling of resources. Medium to large firms, on the other hand, have the capacity to maintain competitive pricing while still investing in the professional development of their teams. These firms can afford to offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement paths that enhance the skills of their workforce. In doing so, they not only create a more competent and capable workforce but also elevate the overall standards of the profession. The Case for Consolidation and Collaboration To secure the future of the quantity surveying profession, there is a strong case for consolidating resources within medium to large firms rather than fragmenting the profession through numerous small enterprises. By encouraging new professionals to join and advance their careers in these larger firms, we enable the consolidation of knowledge, experience, and innovation within the industry. This consolidation is essential to driving research and development initiatives that address the evolving needs of the built environment. Medium to large firms have the advantage of economies of scale, which allows them to pool resources and invest in technologies that small firms cannot afford. With a focus on R&D led by these firms, the QS profession can find innovative ways to serve the broader construction and built industry more effectively. It is through these efforts that we can develop new cost management techniques, sustainability measures, and risk mitigation strategies that will have a lasting impact on the industry. Advancing the Quantity Surveying Profession Through Strategic Growth For the QS profession to sustain itself in the future, we must prioritize growth and innovation within existing firms rather than dispersing our talents across multiple small enterprises. The focus should be on creating an environment where registered professionals can thrive, collaborate, and contribute to the collective knowledge of the profession. We need to embrace a model that values continuous learning, investment in skills development, and the nurturing of a culture that prioritizes research and development. In conclusion, while entrepreneurship is a valuable aspect of the quantity surveying profession, the current trend of each professional starting their own small firm can lead to unintended consequences that may hinder the growth and innovation of the industry. By encouraging newly qualified registered professionals to advance their careers in medium to large firms, we can create a more sustainable future for the profession, driven by research, development, and a commitment to excellence. Let us work together to consolidate our efforts, grow existing firms, and make strategic investments in the future of the quantity surveying industry. The path to a thriving profession lies in collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for the future. Let us build on the strong foundations of our medium to large firms, nurturing the next generation of quantity surveyors to become leaders who will take our industry to new heights. Together, we can create a legacy that not only sustains but also redefines the QS profession for generations to come. Article B: Mr Qinisani Nhlanhla Mbatha, Managing Director and Founder of Mbatha Walters and Simpson (Pty) Ltd, Professional Registered Quantity Surveyor, Past President of ASAQS, and Five-Term Council Member of SACQSP |
Advancing Careers in Quantity Surveying: The Case for Growth in Medium to Large Firms
As to Article reference
Abstract
This article explores the advantages of newly qualified quantity surveyors advancing their careers within medium to large firms, rather than starting their own small businesses. It highlights the challenges faced by small firms in investing in research and development due to financial constraints and the negative impact of competitive pricing on human capital and resource upskilling. The article advocates for consolidating efforts within established firms to drive innovation, enhance skills, and secure the future of the quantity surveying profession through strategic growth and collaborative development.
Introduction
As the construction industry continues to evolve, we are witnessing a growing number of newly qualified quantity surveyors choosing to either join established firms or venture out to start their own practices. While entrepreneurship in any profession is commendable, I believe there are significant advantages to encouraging these talented professionals to advance their careers within medium to large quantity surveying (QS) firms, rather than everyone starting their own small businesses. In this article, I will explore why this approach can benefit not only the individual professionals but also the QS profession as a whole, particularly in the context of research and development, resource upskilling, and sustainable growth.
The Pitfalls of Starting Small Firms: Challenges in Research and Development
One of the primary challenges faced by small QS firms is the lack of resources and time to invest in research and development (R&D). When professionals start their own practices, the pressure to make ends meet often takes precedence over innovation. This focus on survival and generating immediate income can limit the ability to explore new technologies, methodologies, and approaches that are critical to keeping pace with an ever-changing industry.
In medium to large QS firms, there is a structured framework and dedicated resources to drive R&D initiatives. These firms have the capacity to invest in new ideas, explore innovative solutions, and adopt best practices that will ultimately benefit not just the firm but the industry at large. Encouraging more professionals to grow within these environments will lead to greater contributions to the field of quantity surveying, fostering a culture of continuous learning and improvement.
The Reality of Negative Competition
Another concern in the profession is the increasing trend of competition being used as a positive tool, which, in reality, can be detrimental when not approached strategically. Small firms often resort to offering high discounts to win clients, creating a race to the bottom that undervalues the profession. While this approach may seem like a quick win to attract projects, it often undermines the ability to invest in human capital and the upskilling of resources.
Medium to large firms, on the other hand, have the capacity to maintain competitive pricing while still investing in the professional development of their teams. These firms can afford to offer training programs, mentorship opportunities, and career advancement paths that enhance the skills of their workforce. In doing so, they not only create a more competent and capable workforce but also elevate the overall standards of the profession.
The Case for Consolidation and Collaboration
To secure the future of the quantity surveying profession, there is a strong case for consolidating resources within medium to large firms rather than fragmenting the profession through numerous small enterprises. By encouraging new professionals to join and advance their careers in these larger firms, we enable the consolidation of knowledge, experience, and innovation within the industry. This consolidation is essential to driving research and development initiatives that address the evolving needs of the built environment.
Medium to large firms have the advantage of economies of scale, which allows them to pool resources and invest in technologies that small firms cannot afford. With a focus on R&D led by these firms, the QS profession can find innovative ways to serve the broader construction and built industry more effectively. It is through these efforts that we can develop new cost management techniques, sustainability measures, and risk mitigation strategies that will have a lasting impact on the industry.
Advancing the Quantity Surveying Profession Through Strategic Growth
For the QS profession to sustain itself in the future, we must prioritize growth and innovation within existing firms rather than dispersing our talents across multiple small enterprises. The focus should be on creating an environment where registered professionals can thrive, collaborate, and contribute to the collective knowledge of the profession. We need to embrace a model that values continuous learning, investment in skills development, and the nurturing of a culture that prioritizes research and development.
In conclusion, while entrepreneurship is a valuable aspect of the quantity surveying profession, the current trend of each professional starting their own small firm can lead to unintended consequences that may hinder the growth and innovation of the industry. By encouraging newly qualified registered professionals to advance their careers in medium to large firms, we can create a more sustainable future for the profession, driven by research, development, and a commitment to excellence. Let us work together to consolidate our efforts, grow existing firms, and make strategic investments in the future of the quantity surveying industry.
The path to a thriving profession lies in collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for the future. Let us build on the strong foundations of our medium to large firms, nurturing the next generation of quantity surveyors to become leaders who will take our industry to new heights.
Together, we can create a legacy that not only sustains but also redefines the QS profession for generations to come.
PMR.AFRICA GOLDEN ARROW AWARD
Mbatha Walters and Simpson is delighted to have received the PMR.Africa 2023 Golden Arrow Award in the category of medium-sized quantity surveying companies. This is awarded in recognition of “Excellent” service, based on the results of a national survey conducted for best Quantity Surveyors in South Africa.
This prestigious PMR.Africa Award marks the 22nd consecutive year of MW&S being voted among the top quantity surveying companies in this category.
This Golden Arrow Award is reflective of our teamwork and unyielding resolve to provide ingenuity as well as reliable and innovative services in the built environment.
We are humbled by the respondents that voted for us and are grateful for our clients, fellow consultants and the contractors that partner with us to create successful projects. This achievement is dedicated to our inspiring leadership and hardworking team that has supported our vision.
Qinisani Mbatha
Managing Director
SAIBPP HONOURS QINISANI AS ONE OF THE TOP BUSINESS LEADERS
Dear Colleagues
At the recent annual event held in July this year, SAIBPP, in a historic move launched a first ever annual list compiled and published in celebration of 100 top Black
property industry players – the SAIBPP 100.
These players are considered by the organisation to be the sector’s most influential leaders and prominent personalities. They have made their name playing a key and impactful role across the entire spectrum of the property sector, and had been nominated for the SAIBPP 100 because they define the standard for others to follow. With blue-chip resumés, they set the bar for excellence both within their realm of influence and within the broader industry.
Outside of the general criteria of principal activity and presence within the property sector, to be eligible for consideration in the SAIBPP 100 of 2022 the nominees had to align with the following benchmarks.
- have actively contributed to uplifting black people or are high achievers in a
position of influence. - have pre-eminent status or possess the power to exert a real influence on the
significant events of our time; or use their acquired power to shape and effect
changes in the sector through their actions and example. - have transformed the world we live in through their ideas, talents and
discoveries. - have leveraged their status to bring attention to issues of concern which face
the sector, or used their presence to bring about real and tangible change.
Even though influence is hard to measure, the SAIBPP 100 focuses on the most impactful individuals rather than the most popular or most powerful. Though some nominees may rarely be spoken about in public, if they have achieved pre-eminence or demonstrated real influence within the property sector, their nomination was considered deserved.
It is undeniable that appearing on the list is a highly-respected honour. As SAIBPP we recognize the harsh terrain that these black property professionals have had to traverse and the storms that they still weather even as we celebrate the SAIBPP 100 giants.
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