Women in Green Building Competition 2026

Green Building Council South Africa (GBCSA), in proud partnership with the International Finance Corporation (IFC) brings you the 2026 Women in Green Building Competition.

This year’s theme, “Your Perspective Matters,” celebrates the unique insights women bring to the built environment and empowers professionals to drive impact, embrace individuality, and advance their careers.

Now in its fifth year, this transformative initiative continues to open doors for women in the property, construction, and sustainability sectors. Running from March to September 2026, this initiative provides women professionals in the built environment with access to internationally recognised EDGE certification pathways.

Since its launch, the competition has supported the advancement of women leaders across Southern Africa — strengthening technical capacity in green building and contributing to a more inclusive, climate-responsive built environment.

Why Enter?

Participants gain access to globally respected EDGE certification training, strengthening their professional standing in a rapidly maturing market.

Applicants may choose between two development pathways:

EDGE Expert Stream: Designed for professionals seeking to build foundational technical expertise in green building certification.

EDGE Auditor Stream: Designed for experienced EDGE Experts ready to advance to auditing level and support the growing demand for independent verification in the market. 

How the Competition Works:

Phase 1: Application & Shortlisting

Women professionals are invited to submit:

• A short professional biography
• Unpacking the unique value and perspectives women bring to the sustainable real estate and green building sector

A joint IFC and GBCSA judging panel will select the Top 10 finalists.

Entries close at midnight on 29 May 2026.

Phase 2: Training & Assessment

EDGE Expert Stream (5 Finalists)

• Online EDGE Expert training via GBCSA Academy
• Completion of the EDGE exam by 15 September 2026
• Top exam results determine finalists progressing to final selection

EDGE Auditor Stream (5 Finalists)

• EDGE Auditor training online workshop
• Portfolio of evidence submission (as required by the EDGE Auditor Licensing Protocol)
• Upon successful completion, candidates will sign an Auditor-in-Training agreement with GBCSA

Applicants for the Auditor stream must meet eligibility criteria outlined in the EDGE Licensing Protocol.

Phase 3: Awards & Recognition

The final two winners will receive:

• A complimentary pass to the 2026 Green Building Convention in Cape Town
• Official recognition certificates presented at the Convention
• A R10 000 Takealot voucher each

The Green Building Convention takes place from 27–29 October 2026 in Cape Town.

Join Our Information Webinar

Interested applicants are invited to attend a free 1-hour information session on 08 May 2026 (10:00–11:00).

Meet the IFC and GBCSA teams, learn how the competition works, understand the new streams, explore the prizes, and ask your questions live.