Thriving Investments’ very own, James Lenton, has made the cut as one of the first-ever MIPIM Challengers.
Alongside 15 other real estate professionals under 30, James is part of a new initiative that will see a group of young built environment professionals attend MIPIM 2024 to confront the real estate industry on how we’re facing the biggest challenges in the sector.
James’ essay on What is the most crucial challenge confronting global urban development, and how can young professionals contribute to its solution beat over 150 other professional entries to make the prestigious shortlist.
James Lenton, Investment Analyst at Thriving Investments commented: “When faced with the perfect storm of challenges we have two options, bury our heads in the sand or do our bit to collaborate, finding the solutions that will make a positive difference. To have an opportunity to influence change in how we tackle some of these challenges demonstrates the efforts from the built environment to not only do more but also create thriving communities that can positively impact people’s lives.
“I look forward to sharing insights with the 15 other MIPIM Challengers, pitching my ideas to an expert panel of senior leaders in property development and investment, and hopefully seeing our ideas transformed into action.”
Cath Webster, CEO of Thriving Investments commented: “Having joined Thriving Investments earlier this year, James goes above and beyond in supporting the business across several different workstreams. He has made a strong impression already, is happy to ‘roll up his sleeves’, enjoys new challenges and is not shy about challenging other people’s thinking! Knowing James, it doesn’t surprise me that his essay is shortlisted and we are very proud to have him represent us at MIPIM this year as part of the MIPIM Challengers.”
Nicolas Kozubek, MIPIM Director, said: “It has been an incredibly exciting and invigorating process to read so many fantastic entries from the future of our industry on how we can solve the biggest challenges our sector faces. Congratulations to everyone who entered - selecting a final 16 was a real challenge in itself as the standard was so high.
“We cannot wait to welcome our inaugural cohort to MIPIM 2024 to take part in a full programme of events, talks and debates. I’m particularly looking forward to listening and hearing from new and diverse voices. The range of professions and nationalities are a microcosm of real estate’s diversity – from architects to investors to planners through to local government surveyors and neuroscience researchers.
“Together, in one place at MIPIM, our Challengers now have the platform to inform and drive forward the debate, taking us a step closer to uncovering the solutions that we all must deliver.”
James will present his essay on Thursday 14 March at the Challenger’s Conference at The Leaders’ Perspective Stage (P5).
For all who want a sneak peak, you can download the essay here.