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Ruth Kyamuwendo is among the top 40 under 40 New Vision nominees. At 25 years of age, she is already working as a quantity surveyor at TS Consultants and Chartered Quantity Surveying Firm, and studying for her Master’s degree in Quantity Surveying from the University College of Estate Management, United Kingdom. 

The nature of her job means that she overcame very many stereotypes as a young woman to reach where she is today. Kyamuwendo had a chat with Maureen Nakatudde about her career journey and inspiration.

What is the difference between a quantity surveyor, not a land surveyor? 

Many people often confuse those two, but they are totally different. A quantity surveyor deals with quantifying works for building and road projects while a land surveyor deals with landscaping and land development.

Who inspired you to pursue a profession in quantity surveying?

I was inspired by my father, Tom Senfuma Kakaba who is also a registered Chartered Quantity Surveyor for over 15 years of experience now. We grew up watching him work and he would explain it to us. My passion for quantity surveying developed at home.

Why did you choose to become a quantity surveyor?

I chose to be a quantity surveyor because I have always had an interest in technical subjects and the construction world. Consequently, I was the best girl in Senior Four at Kings’ College Buddo in the technical drawing subject beating several boys.

 What subject combinations did you take and what course?

I did Physics, Technical Drawing, Mathematics, Subsidiary Mathematics and Computer Studies at advanced level from 2015 to 2016. I went ahead to do a bachelor’s degree in Construction Management at Makerere University from 2017 to 2020. 

Thereafter, I graduated in May 2021, because of COVID-19. We had course units related to cost management, construction law, building economics and engineering mathematics. 

I was interested in pursuing a Masters in Quantity Surveying, I am currently studying because of those particular course units about measurements and building appraisals.

As a girl child, how did you overcome the challenges of studying those science subjects?

As the only girl who did technical drawing at my advanced level with eight boys, I surmounted the hurdle of fear by being assertive and active in class. I also was punctual for all lessons and had a front seat which helped me get first-hand information from the teachers without any destruction. And above all as a born-again Christian, God was my main guide throughout that journey.

Quantity Surveying is a male-dominated enterprise, how did you overcome the stereotypes?

My faith in God, passion for the profession, and discipline helped me to overcome the prejudices. Coupled with that, I was focused on my goals and vision for the future. This, therefore, helped me to keep a deaf ear to the background noise related to gender stereotypes.

How can more women join the profession?

Practically, the key to joining the surveying courses is by studying science subjects, and being mentored by people already in the field of construction. Young women should also be encouraged that what men do in the construction industry can also be done by them.

 What are the qualities of a good quantity surveyor?

These include good communication skills, numerical and data analysis skills and Excellent attention to details.

 What advice do you give to young women?

To always show up and show out. There’s no reward in taking the corner seat or keeping silent wherever they are planted. The ladders to success are only clear to those who are willing to take the extra steps and make a stand in this world.