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To start, tell us more about you and your field of expertise. 

I'm based in Cairo, Egypt, where I work as a senior consultant, specializing in surveying, asset valuation, MTS Appraisals, asset management, property management, or relocation services as Destination Services Provider (DSP) for Egypt. I also supply training for the Egyptian Residence Visa Program. My role involves a blend of fieldwork and analysis, contributing to various real estate businesses nationwide. 

Why did you decide to become a surveyor?  

My fascination with surveying began during my teenage years, influenced by a deep appreciation for my family business in real estate since 1952 and the precision required in constructing such a brand name. It's blending history with technology to uncover and preserve our historical experience: it was captivating. As I started my career, it gave me a wealth of knowledge in this industry. I launched my real estate business in 1992, and through my varied knowledge and experiences, I have facilitated successful projects with significant companies across Egypt. 

Surveying is an exciting career that varies across different regions of the world. How do you start a career in surveying in Egypt? 

My journey started with obtaining a real estate appraisal license degree in 2003. The first course I conducted was, but I didn't complete registration at (the Financial Regulatory Authority) FRA, and I managed to get it a second time with an updated course in Real Estate Appraisal in 2018 through the Real Estate Appraisal Center at Cairo University, then to have full certification license from FRA on July 2019. Practical experience through internships is invaluable, as is pursuing further certifications and memberships in professional bodies like RICS in Real Estate Assets. 

What are some of the most significant professional challenges you've faced in your surveying career, and what aspects of the job do you find most exciting? 

The most challenging aspect has been adapting to the rapidly changing global landscape standards like the International Valuation Standards (IVS), RICS, IFRS, or Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice (USPAP) with our local standards while ensuring accuracy and reliability in data collection. Conversely, the excitement comes from the gaps between our local and international contexts. This allows me to explore and document all those gaps and match them with our legislation and laws to be applicable for use. 

In your experience, how can the surveying profession attract a younger generation?

To attract young talent into the profession, it's essential to emphasize its influence on local and international environments. Demonstrating the integration of educational outreach and hands-on workshops can ignite interest. By addressing barriers like language and the difficulties of online learning opportunities, we can raise awareness among young people and remove obstacles to their involvement. 

How can our My RICS Community Forum help surveyors? 

The My RICS community can play a crucial role by facilitating mentorship programs, offering networking opportunities, and providing access to industry-leading resources and training. Such support structures are essential for professional growth and staying abreast of industry standards and innovations. 

We know you are a RICS Ambassador: what experiences have you gained from it, and how has this role helped you in your surveying profession? 

It has been an enriching experience, allowing me to connect with professionals worldwide and contribute to setting global standards in surveying. It's also a platform for advocating the profession and engaging with the next generation of surveyors, which I find immensely rewarding. 

Thank you once again for this opportunity. I look forward to the continued exchange of ideas and experiences within our community.))