2026 Women in Leadership: Mentorship & Career Advice

Lucía Torres · 2026-06-04

We're thrilled to share that six of our team members have been nominated for the Los Angeles Business Journal's 2026 Women in Leadership Awards. This recognition honors the drive, mentorship, and community impact that define leadership in real estate. Congratulations to Rainy Hake Austin (Executive of the Year), Deedee Howard (Mentor of the Year), Gloria Castellanos (Champion of Women), Gina Michelle (The Accelerator), Monique Navarro (Community Impact Advocate), and Jeeb O'Reilly (Mentor of the Year). Here, three of our nominees—Jeeb O'Reilly, Deedee Howard, and Monique Navarro—share the advice that shaped their careers, how they stand out in Los Angeles's competitive market, and what they love about this city. Mark your calendars: winners will be announced at a ceremony on June 9th. Congrats again to all nominees! ### Early Leadership Lessons That Still Matter **Jeeb O'Reilly:** "Early on, you think real estate is just about deals and hustle. And sure, those matter. But the people who build lasting success are the ones who earn trust long before they try to impress. It's about being a trusted advisor, not just a negotiator." **Deedee Howard:** "I learned that great relationships with other agents are key. See them as collaborators, not competitors. That shift in mindset opens doors you never knew existed." **Monique Navarro:** "The biggest lesson? Lifting others up elevates your own brand. Real estate runs on connection—the relationships you build, the trust you earn, and the people you champion. Your success is tied to how genuinely you invest in others." > "One lesson I learned early is the importance of having great relationships with other agents and seeing them as collaborators, not competitors." — Deedee Howard ### Standing Out in a Competitive Market **Jeeb O'Reilly:** "Opportunities come through relationships. Clients trust me with major decisions because I keep them informed about the market and their deal every step of the way." **Deedee Howard:** "I'm 100% there for my clients when they need me. I always put their interests first and lead with honesty, integrity, and follow-through." **Monique Navarro:** "For me, it's all about relationships—with clients and agents. A collaborative spirit closes deals competition can't touch. I also elevate every home with floral design, stunning photography, and marketing that tells a story. The experience feels like a boutique hotel: curated, personal, and concierge-level from start to finish." > "A collaborative spirit closes deals that competition never could." — Monique Navarro ### Advice for Women Entering Real Estate **Jeeb O'Reilly:** "Learn the market. Knowledge builds confidence, and confidence creates opportunity. Every day teaches you something new about the diversity of Los Angeles." **Deedee Howard:** "Understand this is a 24/7 job. Your mantra needs to be work, work, work. And remember, women are natural multitaskers—that's always been our edge." **Monique Navarro:** "Don't measure your journey by someone else's. Focus on your strengths, build genuine connections, and never stop learning. The real estate world is big enough for all of us to succeed." ### Key Takeaways - Trust and collaboration beat competition every time. - Invest in relationships—they're the foundation of lasting success. - Differentiate yourself by offering a curated, personal experience. - Stay informed, stay present, and lift others as you climb. We're proud of these women and the example they set. Let's celebrate their achievements and the lessons they share.