The other finalists were Noluthando Gosa, CEO of Akhona Properties in Johannesburg, and Wendy Hartshorne of Cape Town-based Wendy Hartshorne Consulting.

The award seeks to annually recognize an exceptional woman within the commercial property sector who epitomizes the following attributes: possesses specialist commercial property knowledge, has an established and extensive professional network, is recognized and respected by her peers, is ethical and trustworthy and empowers women in the industry.

Lisa Forshey, chairperson of the Women’s Property Network says, “Marna is truly a five star woman. She has endless energy and has made a significant contribution to the commercial property industry.”

Marna holds the position of chief executive officer at Gensec Property Services, one of South Africa’s leading property services companies.  She has a string of achievements to her name notably her appointment as President elect for 2007, making her the second woman in its 40 year history to assume presidency of SAPOA. 

Apart from being a successful businesswoman – having grown Gensec from a single-client, institutional company to a multi-client property services organisation with an annual growth of 17% - Marna places strong emphasis on transformation in the industry and has influenced the formation of the Property Charter.  She also initiated a black economic empowerment deal in association with Pam Golding Properties. 

Her social conscience is evidenced by her hosting of the annual Gensec charity golf day, the proceeds of which go to the Teddy Bear Clinic for sexually abused children.  This is a shining example of the ‘give back’ credo that governs Marna’s working life.

The Women's Property Network was established in early 2001 to create a forum for women in to join together to exchange information, develop business contacts and enhance professional success.
It is an association within the commercial property industry of South Africa which is dedicated to furthering the success of its members by providing the best opportunities for personal and professional growth through innovation, leadership, support and networking. 

The network’s vision is to create a dynamic environment for the upliftment and empowerment of professional women in the commercial property industry of South Africa.