Today marks the beginning of a new chapter in our SHE100 series as we turn our focus to women shaping the real estate and construction sectors across Africa.

In this segment, we spotlight women who are contributing to the built environment through architecture, development, and infrastructure.

We begin with Emma Miloyo, a Kenyan architect and entrepreneur whose work spans design, construction, and business leadership in the built environment.

Early Life and Education

Emma Miloyo studied Architecture at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) in Kenya. Her training in architecture provided the technical foundation for her career in the construction and real estate sector.

She later became a registered architect and gained professional experience working on building projects, developing expertise in design, project management, and construction processes.

Entry into the Built Environment

Emma Miloyo’s career began in architectural practice, where she worked on residential and commercial projects.

Her experience in the field exposed her to the practical challenges of design execution, project delivery, and client management.

This hands-on experience laid the groundwork for her transition from practicing architect to business owner.

Building a Design and Construction Firm

Emma Miloyo is the co-founder of BuildX Studio, a company involved in architecture, design, and construction services.

BuildX Studio operates within Kenya’s real estate and construction sector, offering services that include: architectural design, project management and construction execution

Through this firm, she has been involved in delivering residential and commercial building projects, contributing to Kenya’s built environment.

Leadership and Industry Representation

Beyond her business, Emma Miloyo has played a significant role in professional leadership. She served as the President of the Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK), becoming the first woman to hold this position.

Her leadership at AAK involved:

• representing architects at a national level

• contributing to policy and professional standards

• supporting the growth of the architectural profession in Kenya

What Makes Her Stand Out

• Co-founder of a design and construction firm: She built BuildX Studio, operating within architecture and construction.

• First female president of AAK: She broke a gender barrier in Kenya’s architectural leadership.

• Experience across the project lifecycle: From design to construction, she works across multiple stages of real estate development.

• Active role in industry leadership: Her influence extends beyond her firm into professional representation.

Impact and Industry Contribution

Emma Miloyo’s career reflects the role of architects and construction professionals in shaping real estate development.

Through her work at BuildX Studio and her leadership within the Architectural Association of Kenya, she has contributed to both the delivery of projects and the development of professional standards in the industry.

Her journey highlights the importance of technical expertise, business leadership, and representation in advancing the built environment in Africa.

Emma Miloyo’s story highlights the role of architecture and construction in shaping Africa’s built environment and the growing presence of women within the sector.