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From childhood dreams to global milestones: my property management journey to the IREM Global Summit

By   ·  5 minute read
Ever since I was little, I’ve always had an eye for certain things, and when I set my mind on something, I never let go until I made it happen. I remember being obsessed with the movie *Home Alone* as a kid, and that kind of passion has followed me throughout my life, even into property management, which has been a huge part of my world for over a decade now.

 You see, property management wasn’t something I planned to get into. I kind of just fell into it. But once I was in, I realized it wasn’t just a job for me - it was something I was truly passionate about. And back then, very few people even considered this a real profession, and I took that on as a challenge to change this perception. I’ve spent years advocating not just for excellence, but for the constant elevation of this profession. Property management changed my life, both professionally and personally, and because of that, I made it a commitment to give back. I didn’t want others falling into this career like I did. I wanted them to choose it, to see its value from the start, the way we choose our paths early in school.

 Last year, though, I hit a rough patch where I started questioning myself. I was being told to go against what I had learned and worked so hard to maintain, and it really got to me. I started doubting my expertise and wondering if I was still on the right path. But then something happened; an industry colleague, Waqar Hasan, CPM®, invited me to a training session in December 2023 for an ARM® (Accredited Residential Manager) course. At first, I didn’t think much of it. I was just going to support him, but little did I know it would be the turning point I needed. I attended the ARM® and ethics course, and suddenly everything clicked again. It was like a wave of validation washed over me. All the years of hard work, the dedication, everything I thought I was doing right-it was right. I realized then that no one else could define what I believed in. That was such a huge relief and a moment of clarity for me.

Fast forward to April 2024. I attended an event where I met an incredible woman, Leah Misbin, Senior Director of International Programs at IREM® (Institute of Real Estate Management). We were in a group conversation when someone mentioned they were having issues with a tenant. Naturally, the property manager in me kicked in, and I started giving advice on how to handle it according to the law. Leah was watching me, and afterward, she said, "Wow, you really know your stuff!" Of course, I smiled and said, "Well, property management is my life. I've been doing this for over 12 years!" That’s when I told her something I’ve always believed: If you want something, you’ve got to ask for it. So I shared my dream of teaching property management on a larger scale, and Leah opened the doors for me to pursue it.

 Ever since I crossed paths with Leah, I became curious about IREM. Intrigued, I started looking into what the organization is all about and I found that it was a community of passionate professionals united by a common goal dedicated to learning, development, and elevating excellence in real estate management. 

And with every piece of information I uncovered, the stronger my connection to IREM became. I felt an almost irresistible urge to be a part of this inspiring network, where knowledge is shared, and growth is not just encouraged but celebrated!

Then came the moment that would change everything, I attended a virtual IREM conference in the UAE. It was there that I discovered an upcoming Global Summit, and I just knew I had to be there. It felt like the universe was nudging me in that direction! 

Now, getting to the IREM Global Summit was a whole other adventure. The visa situation wasn't looking good at all—everyone was telling me it would be very challenging to get it within a few months. But whenever someone tells me I “can’t” do something, all I hear is “challenge accepted!” So, after a lot of effort (and what felt like selling a kidney!), I finally got my visa. Just when I was ready to buy my flight and attend the summit, I found out the two UAE Global Summit tickets were already allocated. But you know what? I wasn’t going to let that stop me and I was ready to buy. IREM told me to hold on, and sure enough, the universe had my back. A ticket became available, and I was on my way!

 Of course, since it was my first trip to the US, I had to make one childhood dream come true before the Summit. I flew to Chicago to visit the iconic “Home Alone” house and live out my dream of being Kevin McCallister for a day. Little Aureen was absolutely in her element! It was a reminder to hold onto your dreams, no matter how small or silly they may seem. Naturally, I did all the touristy things too, including a stop at the world’s largest Starbucks. My sunglasses were stolen within seconds! But in true adventure spirit, I took it as a lesson: always hold tight to your dreams and your belongings!

 After that, I flew to Indianapolis for the Summit, not expecting much, just ready to learn and observe. But what I found there was more than I could have ever imagined. I was blown!! The people I met, the warmth, the kindness, the diversity - it was like I had found my tribe.

 From day one, I was welcomed with open arms! One of the most memorable moments was the diversity and inclusion panel. The diversity and inclusion panel resonated deeply with me, especially Samantha Thornton’s heartfelt authenticity. Every speaker, every interaction, reinforced my belief in the power of community and connection. She was so authentic, raw, and kind. It felt like she was speaking directly to my heart.

 There were some other incredible moments, like meeting Shannon Alter, who I’d only seen on LinkedIn and on her book cover, and it was like stepping into a storybook meeting her in person. She was every bit as inspiring in person as I had imagined. And then Barry Blanton, who I had no idea was an IREM past president. But he was so down-to-earth that I felt like I could be my true, silly, authentic self. By that time, it was time for the Premier party where the whole experience was amazing. The networking, the learning, the fun—I even lost my voice from all the dancing and questionable singing!

 On day two, I faced an important interview. I was nervous, but I knew I had to do it right by IREM. Even with my lost voice, I gave it my all. That same day, I attended Shannon Alter’s session on skill improvement—it was engaging, informative, and exactly what I needed. Later, at the women’s leadership lunch, I arrived fashionably late but was greeted with warmth and kindness. Samantha Thornton even complimented my accent—a trait I’d once been teased about, now turned into a moment of pride. Connecting with strong, like-minded women was empowering, reminding me why I love this industry.

 The next day, the Governance meeting became a moment I will never forget. I witnessed the UAE chapter’s approval by IREM—an achievement that left me feeling deeply proud. It was a milestone that validated everything I’ve worked for in property management and my belief in the power of the IREM community.

 By the end of the Summit, I was filled with gratitude. The IREM Global Summit wasn’t just an event for me, it was a validation of everything I’ve worked for, and it’s only the beginning.

 This whole journey has been about finding my voice, standing tall in what I believe, and a reminder that no matter the challenges, I’m exactly where I’m meant to be. This journey has taught me to trust myself, to hold tight to my dreams, and to never let anyone else define my path. From attending the IREM Global Summit to standing proud as the UAE chapter was approved by IREM, I felt a deep sense of accomplishment and pride. I can’t wait to continue growing and helping others find their path in property management, just like IREM helped me rediscover mine.

And yes, my trip didn’t end there. I had to do part two of Home Alone—so, of course, I flew to New York to relive the sequel!