Publications
Various
8th May, 2025
Training isn’t just something you go through—it’s something that shapes you. At AGORA, the focus has always been on practical learning, mentorship, and exposure to the real-world dynamics of construction and project delivery. This came to life in a recent panel discussion, where six team members reflected on their journeys and the lessons they’ve learned along the way.
Each story was different, yet a common thread emerged: growth through experience.
From Secondment to Professional QS: Chandeline’s Journey
Chandeline started her path at AGORA through a secondment from the Department of Water and Sanitation. Now a registered Professional Quantity Surveyor, she reflects on the importance of being informed and prepared.
“You need to know your project inside and out—especially when there are risks for the client. Being informed allows you to manage those risks proactively and provide solutions before they become problems.”
She also spoke about how ongoing learning connects theory to practice.
“The weekly training helped me understand the ‘why’ behind what we do. That context makes a difference when you're delivering work.”
Zenani: Bridging Public and Private Sector Experience
For Zenani, joining AGORA from the Department of Public Works in the Eastern Cape meant stepping into unfamiliar territory—but also gaining a wider view of project roles, especially as a Principal Agent.
“In the public sector, I was mostly involved as a Project Manager. Here, I’ve been exposed to the full construction lifecycle and have experienced managing greenfield projects—something I hadn’t done before.”
That perspective, she says, has broadened her understanding of how a project functions at every stage.
Eduan: From Quantity Surveying to Project Management
Eduan, a Quantity Surveyor graduate, chose to pivot into Construction Project Management for a broader challenge.
“As a Quantity Surveyor, I enjoyed the detail, but I wanted to see the bigger picture. Leading a project from start to finish really appealed to me.”
The transition has required integrating new skills like coordination, scheduling, and risk management—adding a new layer to his existing foundation.
Gerald: Building on a Construction Management Foundation
Coming from a construction management background, Gerald was drawn to Project Management for the broader exposure it offers.
“In construction management, you're often with one project for years. Project Management lets you gain experience across different sectors and teams much quicker.”
His current role gives him that variety, along with support to grow his technical and leadership capabilities.
Thabiso: Stepping Up Early
Thabiso is just one year into his candidacy as a Quantity Surveyor, but he’s already managing two projects, and recently stepped into the role of Principal Agent on one of them.
“The mentorship has been key. I’ve had a structure to lean on, but also space to take on responsibility.”
Managing both cost and coordination on a live project has added depth to his training and built his confidence.
The discussion wrapped up with a simple insight: experience is often the best teacher. Whether it's learning to manage risk, understanding the full lifecycle of a project, or stepping into leadership roles early on, each team member has grown through doing—not just through study.
The takeaway isn’t about how good a training program is, but rather about what happens when people are given the chance to learn, contribute, and grow at their own pace.
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Navigating the world of Quantity Surveying: Contractor vs Consultant Roles
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Inclusion of Disabled People in Architectural Design
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Navigating the dual realms: Being a Candidate Quantity Surveyor in the Public Sector vs the Private Sector
5th Jul, 2024
Breaking Ground: The Rise of Women in the Construction Industry
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The role of the Quantity Surveyor in obtaining finance for commercial developments
8th May, 2024
