ASAQS Members,

As 2025 draws to a close, I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to reflect on a year that has shaped and strengthened the ASAQS in meaningful ways. It has been a year of transition, refinement, and renewed purpose - a year in which we were called to clarify who we are as an Association and to align ourselves with the excellence, impact, and relevance that our profession demands.

One of our significant milestones was the appointment of our Executive Director, a step which marked the commitment to our succession planning, signalling stability, continuity, and a shared obligation to leading this organisation confidently into the future. Furthermore, this was a reflection by the ASAQS Board in our determination to ensure that the ASAQS remains strong, sustainable, and prepared for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead.

Throughout the year, and in alignment with the structure of the organisation, we devoted time to strengthening the internal foundation of the ASAQS. To serve our members with excellence, we needed to ensure that the organisation is cohesive, resilient, and aligned. Much of this work happened quietly, behind the scenes, and remains subject to continuous improvement. But its purpose has been clear: to ensure that the ASAQS continues to evolve into the best version of itself – that can deliver value that is both meaningful and measurable. This renewed focus has already begun to reflect externally through improved visibility, refreshed interest, and intentional strategic collaborations that support the growing recognition of our profession.

As part of the ongoing efforts, our presence in the industry has continued to expand from international platforms such as the AAQS and PAQS conferences, to strengthened partnerships across the built environment where our collective voice has grown stronger. Student chapters has also reignited with enthusiasm, our Young Professionals initiatives have gained traction, and our relationships with sector partners have continued to deepen. It is worth noting that these are part of the many investments that the ASAQS is committed to, investments into our future, into the pipeline, the profession, and the broader relevance of Quantity Surveying in South Africa and beyond.

From a personal perspective, throughout every step this year, I have been guided by the belief that leadership is ultimately an act of service, without fear or favour. It is about creating the conditions for others to thrive, showing respect for the profession we represent, and persevering toward a vision even when the progress is steady and quiet rather than loud and immediate. My commitment has always been to lead with intention, ensuring that the ASAQS becomes an organisation worthy of the trust and confidence our members place us.

As we look ahead to 2026, I am encouraged by the road before us. We step into a new year with a stronger base, a renewed sense of purpose, and a clear understanding of the impact we intend to make, more especially how we can go about to be effective and efficient in this goal. Our focus will be on deepening our visibility, broadening our partnerships, and delivering on strategic initiatives that will shape the future of our profession - goals on which our members should hold us accountable. The year ahead calls for boldness, collaboration, and continued excellence, and invites us to answer an important question with clarity: What is the real value of the ASAQS? I believe we are well prepared to respond through our actions.

To you, our members, thank you for your engagement, your confidence, and your unwavering commitment to the ASAQS. It is your belief in this organisation that fuels our passion, informs our work, and inspires us to strive for even greater relevance and value.

I also wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to the ASAQS Board, who continue to offer their time, expertise, and commitment in service of our shared mission.

To our dedicated staff, thank you for your perseverance and support, which have enabled the achievement of steady but significant milestones throughout the year.

As the festive season approaches, I wish each of you rest, renewal, and moments of joy. May 2026 be a year of purpose, progress, and shared achievement for all of us.

Warm regards,
Mosha Senyolo
President, ASAQS

Here’s a summary of the white paper “Navigating the Journey to AI-Ready Buildings” from Buildings.com and sponsored by Schneider:

Purpose

The paper explores how Artificial Intelligence (AI) can transform commercial buildings by improving efficiency, sustainability, and occupant comfort. It outlines benefits, implementation strategies, and future trends for AI in building management.

Key Challenges

• Buildings consume 40% of global energy, with significant waste (up to 30% in U.S. commercial buildings).
• 75% of EU buildings are energy-inefficient; 80% of 2050’s building stock already exists today.
• Facility managers face demands for flexibility, hygiene, cost control, and regulatory compliance.

AI Benefits & Use Cases

AI introduces continuous learning and real-time optimization, addressing:

• Energy Management: HVAC optimization, adaptive lighting, demand response.
• Sustainability: Automated reporting for ESG and green certifications.
• Operations: Predictive maintenance, fault detection, alarm management.
• Occupant Experience: Comfort control, space optimization, engagement apps.
• Security: Facial recognition, anomaly detection, access control.

Highlighted Applications

1. HVAC Optimization

   • AI fine-tunes controls using occupancy, weather, and historical data.
   • Digital twins simulate scenarios for proactive adjustments.
   • Example: Swedish schools achieved 15% electricity savings and 205 tonnes CO₂ reduction in 5 months.

2. Alarm Management

   • AI reduces “alarm floods” and nuisance alarms by up to 91%, improving operator efficiency and equipment life.

3. Sustainability Reporting

   • AI automates complex compliance reporting and provides real-time insights for proactive decision-making.

AI Building Ecosystem

• Independent Data Layer (IDL): Bridges siloed systems, enabling clean, unified datasets for AI.
• Cloud AI vs Edge AI:
  • Cloud AI: Large-scale analytics and portfolio optimization.
  • Edge AI: Real-time, latency-sensitive tasks like HVAC control.
• Hybrid Approach: Combines both for optimal performance.

Future Outlook

• AI will enable autonomous building management, evolving from “Software-as-a-Service” to “Service-as-Software.”
• Buildings will share data and energy across networks, contributing to grid stability and climate goals.
• ROI will become dynamic as AI systems continuously improve.

Implementation Path

1. Assess: Evaluate readiness (systems, data, stakeholder input).
2. Prepare: Start small, set benchmarks, install sensors and data layers.
3. Test & Scale: Expand based on ROI and performance.
4. Validate: Regular evaluation and proactive maintenance.

Case Studies

• SISAB Schools (Sweden): AI-driven HVAC optimization saved energy and reduced complaints.
• Sidara HQ (London): AI-enabled climate control, fault detection, and occupancy analytics achieved top sustainability certifications.

Conclusion

AI-ready buildings deliver energy savings, sustainability compliance, operational efficiency, and improved occupant experience. Early adoption provides a competitive edge in the rapidly evolving real estate landscape.

Download the white paper here

Congratulations Stephan! You have done our profession proud again. He followed me as President of ASAQS in 2016, and is an example for young students of what can be achieved by will power and determination.

As a school boy he realised that he had to escape from his surroundings and saved money for a bus ticket to Bloemfontein.

On his arrival he shared a shack and had to contribute to rental and food.

He earned his keep by mowing the lawn of his mom's employer, a professor at UFS. The Prof later arranged a bursary for Stephan to study science. He soon realised that science was not his passion, and per chance, he heard of quantity surveying. He was convinced that was what he wanted to do, and he sold wors and buns at the taxi rank in Bloemfontein to study quantity surveying.

The rest is history, and an example for all of us.

Let me tell you something strange that happened to me.

I was out in my yard, just clearing some brush, when I found a crow tangled in thorns. I helped it out, and—no joke—it turned into a shadowy figure. It said I’d earned three wishes. I laughed at first, but it was serious.

So I made my first wish:
“I want enough money to never worry again.”
The next morning, my house was filled with R200 notes stacked to the ceiling. But soon, people noticed. The new cars, the expensive jewels and my Rolex Daytona Cosmograph. Thieves came. Friends turned cold. I was rich—but paranoid.

Then I wished for happiness for my wife.
“Let her be joyful again.”
She smiled, danced, laughed… but it wasn't’ her. It was like she was pretending. Like something had taken her place.

I panicked. I used my last wish:
“Undo it all.”
Everything reset. No gold. My wife was herself again. I thought I was safe.

But when I got home, there was a note on my table. It said:

“You made your choices. Now someone else will make them for you.”

The lights flickered. The door slammed shut.
And I realised…
I wasn’t the one in control anymore.

Meet Genspark. Your wishes are it's command. But don't complain that I haven't warned you.

Is AI starting to replace the QS?

I asked the opinion of a senior partner in a large firm, and his answer was reassuring: “We have been using models for a while to extract quantities to produce BoQ. The limiting factor is that the extracted quantities are only as accurate as the model. If the model is perfect then one can get all the quantities 100%, but to date we have not received a perfect model. The QS will still be necessary to check and map the model. The computer or model will also never be able to do cost control or cost management.”

My mind was cast back to the early days when my small practice was doing quite well and invested in a Philips word processor. I did work with an architect’s firm in Sasolburg. They had branches all over SA with the largest branch in Johannesburg.

They had just invested in a computer system that cost them a small fortune in 1983/4!

A senior partner invited me to coffee in Johannesburg. His words still ring true: “Let me show you the future and the end of your profession.”

His pride and joy was a machine using multiple 10” floppy disks. An operator/architect was designing on a large amber (or was it green?) monitor. Next to the gentleman was a library of files containing codes. Every item had a code. Very impressive.

I asked the operator to show me how he could move an external door from a room with a plaster and face brick wall to a face brick wall both sides.

We had two cups of coffee, and the operator was still struggling and stressed.

I drove back to Vanderbijlpark knowing it will take some time before our profession disappears.

Back to the present.

AI models demonstrate high and rapidly increasing efficiency and accuracy in producing Bills of Materials (BOMs) from architectural and engineering drawings, though they still face challenges that require human oversight.

The core of AI's effectiveness in this task lies in its ability to automate processes that were previously manual, time-consuming, and error-prone.

Efficiency of AI in BOM Generation

AI systems offer significant efficiency gains over traditional methods:

Speed: AI-based systems can scan, analyse, and extract data from CAD files, blueprints, and other technical drawings in a fraction of the time it takes a human operator—often reducing analysis time from hours or days to minutes.

Automation: AI uses Computer Vision for symbol/component recognition and Optical Character Recognition (OCR) and Natural Language Processing (NLP) to extract and understand text, such as part numbers, descriptions, and specifications. This automation eliminates manual data entry and the associated bottlenecks.

Workflow Integration: AI-generated BOMs can be seamlessly integrated with ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning), MRP (Material Requirements Planning), or PLM (Product Lifecycle Management) systems, which further accelerates procurement, planning, and cost estimation.

Accuracy of AI in BOM Generation

The accuracy of AI models is generally high, especially with modern, purpose-built systems, but it is context-dependent:

Specialised Models: Highly trained deep learning models, like those based on Mask R-CNN for image segmentation, have shown high mean average precision (mAP) (e.g., up to 98% in some specific component identification tasks) in identifying, classifying, and extracting specific components like concrete formwork.

Error Reduction: By automating the data extraction and cross-referencing process, AI significantly reduces human errors such as missing components, incorrect quantities, or mismatched specifications that are common in manual data entry.

Validation and Consistency: AI can be programmed to cross-reference the extracted data against established standards, databases, and even other drawing elements (like grid lines and title blocks), ensuring greater consistency and identifying potential design mistakes early.

Current Challenges and Limitations

Despite the advancements, AI is not yet a perfect replacement for human review:

Data Fragmentation and Format Variability: While AI is improving in handling diverse formats (PDFs, scanned images, various CAD files), a major challenge remains the fragmentation and inconsistency of product data. BOMs living in static spreadsheets or across disconnected systems can confuse AI, as the models struggle to infer the semantic relationships and context of the components without structured data.

Complex or Novel Designs: General large AI models can struggle with complex shapes, irregular layouts, or non-standard annotations. Specialised models, while more accurate, require extensive labelled, self-developed datasets to perform well, which is resource-intensive to create.

Need for Verification: Due to the potential for "hallucinations" (confident-sounding but incorrect results) and missed detections, industry practice strongly recommends establishing a closed-loop process involving manual spot-checks and verification of the AI-generated BOM to ensure accuracy, especially for critical elements related to payment or safety.

Contextual Understanding: AI is powerful in what it sees and what the text says, but it can still lack the deep contextual and design intent understanding of an experienced engineer or architect, making professional judgement necessary for final sign-off.

Contribution: Bert van den Heever

Niel du Pisani
PrQS, PMAQS, MRICS

The Practical Guide to Administering Construction Contracts covers every step of administering building construction contracts from project inception through to the resolution of any disputes. The authors, Uwe Putlitz and Peter Barnard, provide succinct, expert analysis of the main standard contract documents and their successful use in construction projects with particular focus on the most frequently used JBCC contracts. They provide practical advice on each stage of the construction transaction, dealing with common construction contract issues as well as the roles, rights and responsibilities of all parties to construction agreements.

Expert Insights from Uwe Putlitz and Peter Barnard
Uwe Putlitz, is a professionally registered Architect (retired) and Professional Construction Project Manager, a past external examiner for the School of Architecture and a visiting lecturer for the School of Construction Economics and Management, at Wits University. He was the CEO of the JBCC from 2011 - 2019 and was intimately involved in the redrafting of JBCC Standard-form Contracts and dealing with ‘frequently asked questions’. 

Peter Barnard, has practised as an admitted attorney in South Africa since 2012. He has advised and dealt with disputes relating to all manner of construction and engineering projects throughout Africa. He has assisted and acts for Developers; Consultants; Contractors; Sub-contractors; and Suppliers alike. He is a regular presenter at conferences and is the chairman of the Joint Building Contract Drafting Committee. 

The content is structured into 8 main areas: Project inception; Principles of Standard form contracts; Securities; Insurances; Construction; Payments; Closure / Claims and Dispute resolution. Practical and informative, it includes a wealth of useful information. It is an essential easy-to-use guide for developers, architects, project managers, quantity surveyors, (sub)contractors, students and building owners to administer standard-form building construction contracts and subcontracts. 

Lempe Shai, Vice President - ASAQS 

May the month of August be a reminder to us all in the built environment and the industries at large that empowering women is not limited to one month. I urge every member of our profession to pause, reflect, and recommit to the advancement of women across our workplaces, projects, and communities. Gender equality is integral to the growth, innovation, and integrity of our profession.

Women continue to play a pivotal role in shaping our workplaces and the broader industry. It is incumbent upon us, as leaders and peers, to ensure that their talents are recognised, their leadership is encouraged, and their voices are heard at every level. The strength of our industry is directly tied to how fully we empower women to lead, innovate, and inspire.

As the month comes to an end, may we stand united in our commitment to inclusion, mentorship, and creating opportunities for women, embedding these principles into the very fabric of our professional practice. Let every boardroom, site, and office reflect the excellence, resilience, and vision of women. Their contribution is not just vital, it is transformative.

To all the women shaping the future of our profession: your commitment, skill, and vision set a standard for us all. ASAQS stands with you, celebrates you, and pledges to continue championing your growth, not for a month, but for every day of the year.

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.

For Ntebo Ngomane, quantity surveying was not an obvious choice at first. In technical high school, she excelled at calculating shear forces for concrete structures, yet civil engineering did not appeal to her. A suggestion to explore quantity surveying opened the door to a career she has now built over two decades.

Ngomane challenges the myth that quantity surveyors simply cut costs. She views the profession as a balance between financial stewardship and project vision, finding cost-effective solutions that still meet quality, functionality, and delivery goals.

Her definition of shaping value centres on managing costs, mitigating risks and seeking efficiencies that ensure maximum return for every rand invested. Leading with precision, for her, is understanding that even small contributions can change lives.

Maintaining high standards is non-negotiable. She stays driven by the knowledge that every financial decision influence project success and community service delivery. Continuous learning and industry awareness keep her at the forefront of her field.

In her experience, women bring significant value to the built environment through expertise, creativity and a drive to learn. She finds particular inspiration in meeting young women eager to push boundaries and grow.

Her leadership philosophy is summed up in her guiding quote: “Quality means doing it right when no one is looking.”

For Mariette Sutherland, the appeal of quantity surveying lies in its versatility, adaptability and challenge. It is a profession that allows her to merge technical expertise with leadership that is centred on people.

She addresses the misconception that quantity surveyors are not necessary on all construction projects. In her experience, their role is crucial in delivering fair, sustainable and quality outcomes.

Shaping value for Sutherland means blending precision with a human touch, ensuring that projects achieve technical excellence while meeting the needs of all stakeholders. Leading with precision, for her, is about being mindful of how actions affect others, guiding with clarity and aligning every word, goal and decision with purpose.

Her high standards are driven by personal pride and accountability. She believes that women can add significant value to the built environment by reshaping industry culture. This includes advocating for safer sites, inclusive policies, flexible working arrangements and stronger mental health support.

Her approach is summed up in her guiding words: “Precision, purpose, and integrity guide everything I do.”

Today, Nolubabalo is the Executive Director of the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors (ASAQS) and a lecturer to the Honours class of Quantity Surveying at the University of Johannesburg. Through both roles, she is dedicated to ensuring the profession is well understood — not only by those who practise it, but also by stakeholders such as clients and communities. “Our purpose in infrastructure projects should never be overlooked,” she says.

One of the most persistent misconceptions she encounters is the belief that quantity surveyors are simply “brick counters.” She explains that the profession plays a far more complex role in the success of infrastructure projects. Quantity surveyors manage finances from planning through to completion, develop procurement strategies, oversee contracts, and act as auditors to ensure cost efficiency and accountability. “We are integral to shaping value and ensuring that projects deliver on both budget and quality,” she adds.

In her leadership at ASAQS, Nolubabalo focuses on building strong partnerships across the industry, promoting high standards of professional and ethical practice, and encouraging innovation to keep members competitive in a rapidly changing environment. She is particularly passionate about bridging the gap between generations in the profession, supporting transformation, and showcasing the essential role quantity surveyors play in South Africa’s infrastructure development.

For Nolubabalo, “leading with precision” is about acting intentionally in every decision and interaction. It means ensuring that work is purposeful, backed by relevant data, and aligned to strategy, while also maintaining the emotional intelligence to engage effectively with stakeholders.

Her standards are rooted in honesty, respect, and a commitment to service — values she believes are essential for leadership in any profession. “Every decision I make, whether operational or strategic, must reflect these values. It’s about respect for the profession, those we serve, and future generations,” she says.

Nolubabalo also sees an important and growing role for women in the built environment. “Women bring different viewpoints, emotional understanding, and collaborative skills that are vital in a traditionally male-led industry. We add value across all areas, from policy and planning to project management and leadership,” she explains. By challenging stereotypes and fostering inclusive workplaces, she believes the profession can only grow stronger and more innovative.

Her personal philosophy can be summed up in her own words: “Act with honesty, serve with a clear goal, and create a positive impact.”

The ASAQS Stakeholder Relations Manager attended alongside the President and Registrar of the South African Council for the Quantity Surveying Profession (SACQSP), who both delivered inspiring addresses encouraging the next generation of built environment professionals. Their presence underscored the value of collaboration between academia, regulatory bodies, and professional associations.

The launch of the ASAQS Student Chapters across WSU campuses marks a key step in developing the pipeline of quantity surveying professionals, particularly within historically disadvantaged institutions. These chapters aim to connect students with peers, industry experts, and real-world practice, while providing structured support and guidance towards professional registration.

Activities will include networking events, workshops, and tailored assistance with professional diaries and competencies, fostering a culture of professionalism and lifelong learning from the earliest stages of study.

Christine Mutanda, representing ASAQS, officially launched the chapters during a dedicated session that also recognised top-performing students. She urged students to fully engage with the profession and utilise the resources available through ASAQS membership.

The event concluded with WSU reaffirming its commitment to producing future-ready graduates and strengthening partnerships with industry to bridge the gap between education and practice.

Janita Stroebel, Director at BTKM Quantity Surveyors (EC); ASAQS EC Chapter Chairperson; ASAQS Board Member

August offers us a pause. It is a month in South Africa where we honour the strength, insight and contribution of women. For me, it is also a reminder of the responsibility we carry in shaping spaces, systems and futures. I share these reflections not only as part of ASAQS leadership but as a woman who has chosen to build a career in quantity surveying, a profession that continues to challenge and inspire me.

I was drawn to quantity surveying because it combines structure with strategy. It brings order to complexity, allowing detail to be managed without losing sight of the bigger picture. My sense of fairness and precision found a natural home in this field. As the built environment becomes more collaborative and data-driven, quantity surveyors are well placed to shape outcomes that are equitable, efficient and forward-looking.

A common myth about the profession is that it is simply about counting bricks and managing costs. In reality, it touches sustainability, project strategy, risk, digital innovation and transformation. We are expected to provide foresight as well as oversight and to guide decisions that influence long-term success.

For me, shaping value means aligning purpose with process. Whether it is implementing ISO 9001 systems, mentoring new professionals or developing tools for more efficient delivery, I try to embed quality into every layer of work. Asking the difficult questions early allows risks to be reduced and value to be unlocked throughout a project.

Leading with precision is about discipline, clarity and fairness. It is not perfectionism but deliberate decisions, consistent standards and designing systems that help people perform at their best. In a field often pressed for time and resources, precision is the opposite of rushing. It is leadership with intention.

My standards are driven by respect for the profession, for those who rely on our work and for the legacy we leave behind. I have seen the results of poor planning and weak oversight. That is why I prioritise continuous learning, mentoring and system development. I want to deliver work I can be proud of ten years from now.

Women bring value across the built environment, particularly in collaboration, planning, communication and empathy. These are not soft skills, they are strategic. Women excel in aligning processes, navigating complexity and managing outcomes with care and consistency. We also bring perspective to transformation and sustainability, two areas where the industry must do better if it is to build responsibly for the future.

My approach can be summed up simply:
Lead with clarity, build with purpose, and leave behind a system better than you found it.

DOWNLOAD NOMINATION FORM HERE

We appreciate your active participation and look forward to re-establishing a vibrant and effective ASAQS KZN Chapter that represents the interests of quantity surveyors in the region.

Dear Colleagues and Members of ASAQS,

As we open the month of August, a time in South Africa where we pause to honour the resilience, brilliance, and contribution of women, I am deeply humbled to share a few reflections with you, not only as the President of ASAQS, but as a woman in the built environment.

For me, quantity surveying is not just a profession; it is about building legacies. It allows me to contribute to projects that are socially and economically sustainable, creating value that extends well beyond the completion of any structure. That value is what drives me.

There is a tendency to view quantity surveying as purely technical or bound by tradition. I challenge that view.

“It is strategic, dynamic, and centred on understanding people, processes, and impact.” 

As a leader, I am committed to value creation through systems improvement and empowerment. My goal is to help every team, client, and institution I work with become more efficient and forward-thinking.

“I do not believe in comfort zones or ticking boxes. I focus on real, lasting improvements.”

To me, leading with precision is about being anchored in purpose. I ask questions, seek to understand the ‘why’, and allow that insight to shape the ‘who’, ‘what’, ‘when’, and ‘where’. I continuously challenge assumptions, and in doing so, I hold myself and my work to the highest standard.

“I constantly ask: Is this the best we can do? That mindset keeps me sharp and agile in everything I approach.”

I also believe that women bring unique strengths to the built environment.

“We are natural systems thinkers. We connect ideas and people, lead with empathy, and focus on alignment. Our collaborative approach is essential, and our industry needs more of it.”

This Women’s Month, ASAQS honours all the women who are shaping the future of our profession, with vision, integrity, and excellence. We celebrate the power of precision, the strength of purpose, and the impact of leadership.

May we continue to uplift one another, build bravely, and lead with heart.

Warm regards,
Mosha Senyolo
President, ASAQS

The ASAQS officially launched the Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) Student Chapter on 22 July 2025, reaffirming its commitment to developing future quantity surveyors. The event was attended by students from first year to master’s level, lecturers from the Department of Building Sciences, ASAQS representatives, and guest speakers from industry.

The chapter was introduced as a platform to connect students with the professional world, bridging the gap between academia and industry. It aims to give students exposure to career opportunities, deepen their understanding of the quantity surveying field, and support peer collaboration and professional growth.

Speakers shared insights into the evolving role of quantity surveyors in South Africa’s infrastructure sector. They also offered practical advice on CV writing, interview preparation, and the importance of personal differentiation in the job market. These contributions highlighted the realities of the profession and encouraged students to take initiative in shaping their careers.

The ASAQS Student Chapter at TUT will serve as a hub for:

• Professional Networking: Connecting students with ASAQS members and professionals.
• Skill Development: Hosting seminars, workshops, site visits, and competitions.
• Career Guidance: Offering resources on registration, CPD, and career pathways.
• Industry Exposure: Providing access to ASAQS events and sector insights.

ASAQS’s Stakeholder Relations Manager emphasised the Society’s vision of building a pipeline of competent, passionate professionals. Students were encouraged to actively engage with chapter initiatives.

The successful launch reflects the growing momentum of student engagement within ASAQS and the value of partnerships with academic institutions. ASAQS looks forward to supporting the chapter’s growth and celebrating its achievements.

In her welcome address, Eastern Cape Chairperson Janita Stroebel emphasised the value of collaboration, stating that growth does not happen in silence. Drawing inspiration from a recent Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber event, she highlighted the importance of open dialogue and community engagement, particularly in a region with both significant potential and complex challenges.

The Chapter was honoured to welcome ASAQS President Ms Mosha Senyolo, Executive Director Mrs Nolubabalo Tsolo and SACQSP President Mr Arthur Quphe. Their attendance demonstrated the shared commitment of both organisations to supporting the growth of the profession.

President Senyolo provided updates on ASAQS’s national strategy and reaffirmed her focus on increasing value for members. She noted that she is first and foremost a fee-paying member before being the President, a statement that underlined her commitment to transparency and local chapter development. The ASAQS leadership commended the Eastern Cape Chapter for its active presence and its meaningful contributions over the past two years.

Mrs Tsolo facilitated the programme, which included a compelling keynote address by Ms Paola Horak, Board Director at the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber and Director at Grindstone Property Management and Development. Horak shared a candid yet hopeful perspective on the future of the city, stressing the importance of civic participation and professional involvement. She encouraged quantity surveyors and other built environment professionals to volunteer their expertise in support of local infrastructure and city improvement initiatives. She stated that projects involving a quantity surveyor are always better off than those that do not.

A key feature of the evening was a panel discussion that explored both the opportunities and the challenges in the region’s infrastructure sector. The discussion was moderated by Dr Tirivavi Moyo from Nelson Mandela University and featured panellists including Mr Martin Meiring from the Department of Public Works and Infrastructure, Mr Bekani Madyibi from the Coega Development Corporation, Ms Maartje Weyers from Route2EC, Ms Senyolo from ASAQS and Mr Mfezeko Gwazube from SACQSP. The panel offered practical insights into improving professional collaboration and unlocking value in public infrastructure.

The evening also celebrated the career of Mr Trevor Kay, who was awarded ASAQS Honorary Membership following a nomination by the Eastern Cape Chapter. His decades of service and contribution to the profession were recognised with deep appreciation. Chairperson Stroebel paid tribute to him as a true gentleman whose eloquence and graciousness have made a lasting impression on the quantity surveying community.

Looking ahead, the Chapter is encouraging greater participation from local professionals in its activities and initiatives. Plans are under way to strengthen collaboration with the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber and other regional stakeholders. By fostering these partnerships, the Chapter aims to support infrastructure development, promote professional growth and build investor confidence across the Bay and beyond.

Today, the ASAQS Board has the distinct honour of awarding Honorary Membership to a man whose career has exemplified professional excellence, integrity, leadership, and lifelong commitment to the industry—Mr. Trevor E. Kay.

Mr. Kay’s journey is one that bridges engineering, construction management, dispute resolution, and quantity surveying across both local and international arenas.

He began his professional journey by obtaining a National Diploma as a Construction Supervisor from PE Technikon in 1969. This foundational training set him on a path with Murray & Roberts, where he gained invaluable hands-on experience in civil engineering and construction.

Recognising the importance of cost expertise in the built environment, Mr. Kay transitioned into the quantity surveying profession. He pursued his academic goals further, obtaining a BSc in Quantity Surveying in 1988, followed by an MSc in Quantity Surveying in 1992, both from Nelson Mandela University.

In 1992, he established his own practice in Port Elizabeth, specialising in the building construction sector.

Between 2000 and 2005, Mr. Kay extended his expertise internationally, contributing to complex projects in Hong Kong, Qatar, The Netherlands, Italy, Ethiopia, and the United Kingdom—primarily in the areas of claims preparation, dispute resolution, and contract administration.

His commitment to resolving disputes in the construction industry led him to achieve Fellow Membership of the Association of Arbitrators. He served on numerous Dispute Adjudication Boards between 2003 and 2017, and completed a number of certifications including specialisation in Construction Law.

His involvement with professional bodies is equally inspiring:

• With the Master Builders Association, Mr. Kay held several leadership roles, including:
• Chairman of the Contractual Committee
• Member of the Joint Practice Committee
• Chairman of the PE branch
• Member of the Executive Committee
  In recognition of over three decades of service (1974–2007), he was awarded Honorary Membership in 2008.
• As a Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) accredited Civil Commercial Mediator, Mr. Kay further enhanced his contribution to the profession through global best practices.
• Within the ASAQS, Mr. Kay’s contributions have been longstanding and impactful:
• Vice Chairman of the Eastern Cape Chapter (1995–1997)
• Chairman (1997–1999)
• He continues to serve as a dedicated member of the Chapter Committee, representing ASAQS on the MBA Joint Practice Committee.

Mr. Kay, your work ethic, cross-disciplinary knowledge, leadership within industry bodies, and unwavering dedication to upholding the highest standards have not only advanced the profession but have inspired many of us to serve with purpose.

In recognition of your lifelong contributions, professional integrity, and unwavering service to the built environment, the Board of the Association of South African Quantity Surveyors is proud to confer Honorary Membership upon you, Mr. Trevor E. Kay.

Your legacy stands as a shining example to emerging and established professionals alike. It is with heartfelt appreciation that we celebrate and honour you today.

Congratulations, Mr. Kay – and thank you.

Continue reading the article in Walls & Roof

Pushing up construction costs

Local buyers in South Africa are consequently facing material shortages, steep price increases, and longer lead times for essentials such as steel, aluminium, solar panels, and electrical components, says Tsolo. She explains that contractors are struggling to manage the rising costs and add risk premiums to tenders. This means that projects – from roads and bridges to schools and affordable housing – risk exceeding their budgets. In addition, currency fluctuations are making dollar-priced imports even more expensive. All this puts strain on both public and private projects, with affordability and delivery timelines being reassessed.

Behind the scenes

“Amidst this uncertainty, quantity surveyors (QS) play a crucial role in stabilising the construction sector and keeping costs under control,” says Tsolo. “We’re the only profession specialising in the finances of the construction industry – also referred to as ‘building accountants’ (Bou-rekenaare) in Afrikaans”

The QS’s initial estimate of the project cost – including labour, material, time, and profit – is based on information from the architects, engineers and other industry specialists. “We look at the current market prices in construction, combined with historical data as well as statistical forecasts and construction and material price indices,” says Tsolo. Ideally, the estimate also includes reserves for contingencies and escalations to cover unforeseen risks and costs during the project.

However, Treasury currently doesn’t accept contingencies (typically 5% to 10% of project value) in the public sector, and QS have to formally request additional funds for unexpected costs. It’s meant to boost accountability, says Tsolo, but adds onerous of bureaucracy, which delay construction and drive costs even higher.

How to build resilience

The ASAQS suggests the following responses to the tariff-related challenges on SA’s construction sector: 

• Embrace dynamic pricing strategies:

Together with other industry bodies, the ASAQS is engaging with government departments for more flexible public sector procurement frameworks to address price volatility. But this requires regulatory clarity. “The Standard for Infrastructure Procurement and Delivery Management stated that no escalations and contingencies should be included in the contract price (clause 14.5.9),” says Tsolo. “However, when this regulation was replaced in 2019 with the Framework for Infrastructure Delivery and Procurement Management, it didn’t mention the escalations and contingencies.”

• Focus on strengthening local supply chains:

The government has been encouraging local manufacturing, but it should use the US tariffs to actively help local producers of construction materials, for example through tax breaks and other incentives. This would reduce reliance on imports.

• Train QS on integrating global economic indicators into cost planning

ASAQS members already benefit from evolving continuous professional improvement programmes and webinars that also tackle macro-economic topics. Other industry bodies and partners could add value to this.

“By building resilience, we intend to lessen global economic shocks on the local construction sector,” says Tsolo. “Quantity surveyors are central to this, ensuring that construction projects remain feasible, efficient, and financially sound, even in uncertain times.” It shows that while South Africa can’t stop America from sneezing, we can protect ourselves from catching a full-blown cold.