Women of ASAQS: Shaping value and leading with precision | Viwe Landu

Viwe Landu, ASAQS Deputy Vice President

When Viwe Landu first enrolled to study Quantity Surveying, she admits she did not fully understand what she was stepping into. What began as a leap into the unknown has become a career of more than twenty years, marked by challenges, surprises, and ultimately, fulfilment. Looking back, she is certain she would not change a thing.

Breaking myths about quantity surveying

A common misconception is that quantity surveyors can solve every financial problem in construction. For Landu, this myth has an interesting truth within it. Through value engineering, she and her peers have consistently delivered projects that balance quality, function, and cost. “It is not magic, but it can feel like it when a project is delivered successfully and the client is smiling,” she explains.

Shaping value through people and culture

Excellence and high-quality outputs remain central to Landu’s work, but she believes value is not only about technical delivery. Creating an environment where people feel supported and encouraged is equally important. She strives to foster positivity and connection, knowing that a simple smile can change the mood of a team, improve collaboration, and strengthen results. “Stress may bring short-term outcomes, but it is not sustainable for long-term success,” she says.

Leading with clarity and purpose

For Landu, precision in leadership begins with clarity. She observes that too many leaders operate without vision, clear goals or structured communication, which leaves teams confused and disengaged. To her, true leadership means setting a clear path, aligning resources effectively, and ensuring that everyone understands not only what must be done but also why it matters.

Standards built on lifelong lessons

Her commitment to high standards was instilled early. She recalls her primary school headmaster’s words: “If it is not your best, it is not good enough.” This principle, combined with professional guidance from ASAQS and RICS, has shaped her drive to deliver excellence. For Landu, it is never about doing just enough, but about striving for the highest standard in every sphere of life.

Women’s role in the built environment

Landu believes men and women are equals in the construction industry, yet she acknowledges that women often bring particular strengths in soft skills. In environments that can be intense or high-pressure, empathy, calmness and the ability to defuse tension can be invaluable. “Sometimes, being the voice of reason can make all the difference in moving a project forward smoothly and respectfully,” she reflects.

A guiding principle

Quoting John Maxwell, Landu says: “A leader is one who knows the way, goes the way, and shows the way.” For her, this is more than words. In quantity surveying, effective leadership requires technical expertise, lived experience and credibility. This is why she views professional bodies such as SACQSP and ASAQS as essential. They uphold standards and ensure that only qualified professionals guide the next generation with integrity.