Born into a life of perpetual movement and cultural exploration, Ilze’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and unwavering determination. From her nomadic upbringing to her flourishing career and family life, Ilze embodies the spirit of embracing challenges and seizing opportunities with grace.
Early Years: A World of Change
Ilze’s childhood was anything but ordinary. As the daughter of a diplomat, she traversed the globe, calling Taiwan, Washington DC, Slovakia, and New York home during her formative years. Despite the enriching experiences of travel, being constantly uprooted presented its own set of challenges. Always “the new kid at school,” Ilze learned the valuable lessons of resilience and adaptability from a young age.
Completing her high school education at Pretoria Girls High in 2005 provided stability amidst the constant flux, laying the foundation for her future endeavours.
Career Journey: From Legal Expertise to Development Management
Ilze’s professional journey commenced in 2011 when she embarked on her articles at Strauss Daly in Cape Town, managing the Debt Review Department with finesse. Her legal acumen led her to Bornman and Hayward in Stellenberg in 2013, where she honed her skills as a junior associate.
In 2014, Ilze’s career took a pivotal turn as she joined the Amdec Group, a private property development company, as a legal advisor. Over five years, she ascended to the role of Sales Manager, overseeing new mixed-use developments in both Johannesburg and the Cape Town CBD.
Today, as the Developments Manager at ESI, Ilze orchestrates the harmonious relationships with developers while overseeing the department’s daily operations. Her role extends beyond mere management as she imparts legal education to estate agents, nurturing a culture of knowledge and excellence.
Personal Triumphs: Balancing Family, Career, and Ambition
Ilze’s achievements extend far beyond the boardroom. A devoted wife of 10 years and mother of two young children, she exudes warmth, love, and dedication to her family. Despite the challenges posed by the Covid-19 lockdown, Ilze persevered, balancing her career aspirations with the joys of motherhood.
Her proudest moments include passing the Conveyancing exams amidst the chaos of caring for a newborn and achieving qualification as a conveyancer. Undeterred by past accomplishments, Ilze sets her sights on further academic pursuits, aspiring to become a qualified notary through Notarial Practice later this year.
Life Philosophy: Kindness and Respect
At the core of Ilze’s being lies a simple yet profound moral compass: treat people with respect and kindness. This guiding principle permeates every aspect of her life, fostering meaningful connections and nurturing a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.
Leisure Pursuits: Exploring the World and Embracing Adventure
In her rare moments of respite, Ilze indulges her passion for exploration and discovery. A fervent traveller, she believes in seizing every opportunity to experience the richness of diverse cultures and landscapes. Whether embarking on leisurely walks with her dogs, delving into a captivating book, or savouring culinary delights at new restaurants, Ilze embraces life with enthusiasm and curiosity.
In Ilze, we find not just a professional achiever, but a beacon of resilience, compassion, and unwavering optimism. Her journey serves as an inspiration to embrace change, navigate challenges with grace, and cultivate a life filled with purpose, kindness, and adventure.