Learie Gonsalves is a fellow member of RICS with over 30 years’ experience in the industry working as a Building Surveyor, Contract Administrator, Project Manager and as an Architectural Technician. Learie also a director of One Building Solution Ltd in Leicester with his wife Nicola. Lets meet Learie.
“Your background does not define your potential—your determination does. The industry may not always reflect the diversity we want to see, but it’s getting better and by stepping forward, you can be the change. Seek out opportunities, embrace challenges, and always aim to lift others as you rise. Through perseverance, curiosity, and hard work, you’ll discover that even in the unlikeliest of places, your skills and voice can reshape the future.”
Surveying offers a fascinating and diverse career path. What inspired you to focus on building surveying specifically?
Initially, I started my career as an architectural technician, which sparked my interest in how buildings are designed. Over time, however, I wanted to understand how buildings function on a deeper level—why defects occur, and how to address them. This curiosity led me to building surveying. It allowed me to explore the structural, technical, and operational aspects of buildings in a way that was both challenging and rewarding.
As I advanced in my career, I travelled around this country and across Europe, worked on some truly exciting projects, and collaborated with fantastic people. The diversity of work and the chance to engage in different architectural contexts has been one of the highlights of my career. While not many people who look like me or come from my background are represented in the industry, I’m passionate about changing that. I strongly believe in seeking out future talent and encouraging them into this industry because of the incredible experiences I’ve had. This profession offers a fulfilling and impactful career path, and I want others to see that potential for themselves.
What motivated you to start your own practice, and what challenges have you faced along the way?
After 30 years working in various roles across the surveying profession, I decided to start my own practice, One Building Solution Ltd, to have more control over my own destiny, projects and clients. This journey isn’t easy. Managing cash flow, navigating the complexities of business, and securing steady work are all significant challenges. But the ability to create a space where I can promote diversity, inclusion, and quality in the profession has been incredibly rewarding.
You are quite active in volunteering; could you tell us more about your experiences and what drives you to give your time to these causes?
My involvement in volunteering stems from a desire to give back to the community and support the next generation, particularly those from ethnic minority and underprivileged backgrounds. I currently volunteer as an RICS Inspire Ambassador, where I mentor young people and help them understand the potential and opportunities in surveying. I want to ensure the next generation knows they can do the same.
Beyond mentoring, I am a former committee member of The Race Equality Centre (TREC), where we promoted racial equality and supported ethnic minorities in Leicester. Volunteering has always been about giving back, but it also drives me to foster inclusivity and equality in the profession. By encouraging people from diverse backgrounds to join the industry, we can open up more opportunities for future talent.
What are your responsibilities as an RICS Inspire Ambassador, and what led you to take on this role?
As an RICS Inspire Ambassador, I focus on promoting surveying to young people, particularly those from ethnic minority and underprivileged backgrounds. I help them see the potential in this profession by mentoring them and guiding them through the career path, often attending career fairs and events to inspire and provide advice.
I took on this role because I’ve experienced first-hand how challenging it can be to enter the profession when you don’t see people who look like you already working in it. My own career has been shaped by a diverse set of experiences. I strongly believe in seeking out future talent from underrepresented groups and giving them the encouragement they need to follow in our footsteps. By helping others realize the possibilities in this profession, we are working towards a more inclusive and dynamic industry.
What has been your most rewarding experience so far in your role as an RICS Inspire ambassador?
One of the most rewarding experiences has been seeing young people, particularly from ethnic minority and underprivileged backgrounds, go on to pursue successful careers in surveying. Many of them have shared with me that they didn’t think a profession like surveying was accessible to them until we engaged in discussions.
In my role as a RICS Inspire Ambassador and through my own initiative ‘The Future Talent Campaign’, I’ve had the opportunity to show them how diverse and inclusive the profession can be. Seeing these young people achieve their potential, knowing I’ve played a part in inspiring them to take this path, is incredibly fulfilling.
In what ways can the myRICS Community assist surveyors?
The myRICS Community is a vital resource for surveyors at every stage of their careers. It offers access to CPD, networking opportunities, expert forums, and a space where surveyors can discuss industry challenges and share insights. For me, it has been an essential platform for continuing professional development and connecting with like-minded individuals across the globe.
Moreover, it fosters inclusivity by providing a platform for voices from ethnic minority and underprivileged backgrounds, allowing them to be heard. I believe myRICS can play a crucial role in supporting the growth of diverse talent within the surveying profession, and I’m committed to using it to mentor and open doors for the future talent of this industry.”