While March is Women’s History Month, we all know that women rule the world year-round. And when it comes to our world of real estate? You better believe that we have a strong, fearless team of women paving the way. So, in honor of Women’s History of Month, we tapped the ladies of SBP for their insights on what this month means to them, how they seek empowerment in today’s day and age, and what advice they would give to young women helming a new chapter for equal rights. In summary? They’re modern-day heroes.
Sewit Eshetu
When Sewit isn’t catering to her clients on a daily basis, you can find her cherishing quality time with her family, both at home and around the world: “I love to discover the subtle nuances of different cultures when I travel with my husband and kids, and especially unique cuisines.” And she seeks to pass on this same sense of curiosity to other young women across the globe. “Don’t be afraid in whatever it is that you choose to do, and don’t ever underestimate your inner strength.”
Katy Yambao
Associate Partner Katy Yambao has a strong sense of independence that makes her an integral part of the SBP team. “Ever since I was a little girl, I was surrounded by a supportive family who always told me I could do anything I set my mind to,” she shared. “First and foremost, we have to believe in ourselves if we want others to.” And this sentiment rings true for her take on Women’s History Month, as well. “It’s great we’ve dedicated a whole month to celebrating women, but we can’t stop there,” she exclaimed. “Women should be appreciated and celebrated every single day.”
In the real estate industry, Katy thrives on connecting with new people and developing meaningful relationships — but when she’s not working? “I love traveling, getting outdoors and taking advantage of all that California has to offer,” she said. Whatever it is that she’s pursuing, whether work or play, it’s always done with conviction: “Get out of your comfort zone and enjoy the journey. Your life doesn’t have to be on a linear path. The twists and turns make life interesting.”
Hannah Pilkington
Associate Partner Hannah Pilkington is from a small town in North Carolina where she graduated at the top of her class and later attended NYU’s prestigious Tisch School of the Arts. So, it should come as no surprise that Hannah boasts the ultimate drive to propel her in life. “As a woman, I feel the most empowered when my presence in a room doesn’t revolve around the fact that I’m a woman, but rather what I can bring to the table as a human,” she shared. To her, this month is the perfect occasion to highlight women’s achievements and discuss the concerns, challenges and commitments surrounding female empowerment.
When Hannah isn’t crushing it on the SBP team, you can find her spending afternoons at the beach with her sweet dog and sipping wine at sunset. “I’m a social, empathetic person and making others laugh and feel good means the world to me,” she said. And when we asked Hannah for advice? “Confidence is a gift you give yourself,” she put wisely. “There is no timeline for your life. You do you.”
Courtney Welsh
Courtney Welsh, SBP’s Director of Operations, is taking this month to reflect on how far women have come, and in doing so, is committed to being at the forefront of change for the future. And while Courtney has over 15 years of experience in luxury residential real estate managing operations for top-producing teams and agents, what empowers her most is being a mother. “I think it’s incredible that my body created a beautiful human being and brought her into the world safely,” she shared. “And now I have the opportunity to help her grow into an empowered woman, as well.”
When Courtney isn’t holding down the fort at SBP every day, she loves spending time with her family at the beach, bringing her daughter to the zoo (in pre-COVID times, of course) and indulging in a good “day drink” — because who doesn’t? Whatever path you find Courtney on in life, she’s doing it with a big smile on her face. “Its important to set your sights on what brings you joy and do it, whether that’s being a CEO of a company or a stay at home mom,” she said. “Pursue happiness and you will thrive — no matter what it is you’re doing.”
Krista Masella
To Krista Masella, SBP’s master Office Manager, Women’s History Month is a time to reflect on all of the trailblazers who have come before us and provided the freedoms and opportunities that women cherish today. “This year, I’m particularly reflecting on the life of the notorious RBG who we tragically lost last year,” Krista shared. “She fought for equality until the very end and embodied the strength and conviction that I’d like to see permeate all women in our society.”
As Krista said, she’s a woman who enjoys the simple things in life. From finding new hiking trails to exploring new cuisines and snuggling up with her pup and a good book, Krista’s key to happiness is “a low-key lifestyle with high-key adventuring.” And when it comes to empowerment, she’s all about banding together. “There is nothing more powerful than a group of women all working towards the same goal,” she said. “Don’t let the stakes stacked against you crush your spirit. Although we still have a long road to true equality for women in our country, there are many successes to celebrate.”
Parisa Nikzad
A SoCal native from a tight-knit family of commercial real estate investors, Executive Assistant Parisa Nikzad brings ambition and a deep understanding of diverse perspectives to the table at SBP. And while some people say life is divided into three buckets — work, friends & family, and hobbies — Parisa has all three. “My work is my passion and our company is like one big happy family.”
To Parisa, this month is all about celebrating how far women have come and taking a moment to stop and recognize where we’re headed. “It’s all about supporting one another,” she shared. “I’m empowered by those who have paved the way for other women to achieve their goals.” But the most important step in achieving that? Not letting people hold you back. “Don’t allow anyone to tell you that you can’t do something — even if it’s never been done,” she said. “You can do it and you will. Forget the odds and focus on the action steps.”
Thank you to the women of SBP for your incredible brains, consistent guidance, endless inspiration and enduring support. We wouldn’t be where we are today without you. And to women everywhere — thank you for leading the way, always and without hestitation.