Our History

Itakane Trading 156 (Pty) Ltd, trading as Itakane Real Estate Academy, was founded in 2007 by Pieter Swart, a visionary committed to elevating real estate education in South Africa. His dedication and expertise laid the groundwork for the academy to become a leader in the field, known for its comprehensive training and commitment to excellence.

In 2015, Amanda Marinus, with her extensive background in finance, insurance, and accountancy, joined Itakane. She had held her Fidelity Fund Certificate (FFC) since 1988, bringing a wealth of experience and a passion for real estate education. Under Pieter’s mentorship, Amanda quickly became a key figure in the academy, and in 2017, she assumed the role of director. In 2023, she became the CEO of Itakane Real Estate Academy.

Under Amanda’s leadership, Itakane Real Estate Academy has continued to thrive, particularly in its mission to train Candidate Property Practitioners. The academy is renowned for its step-by-step guidance, ensuring that learners are fully equipped to qualify as Professional Property Practitioners.

On 1 July 2024, the real estate training industry in South Africa entered a new era with the transition to the QCTO qualification framework. Itakane Real Estate Academy is proud to say that they are fully prepared for this change, embracing it as an opportunity for “New Beginnings for the Training of South Africa.” This milestone marks another chapter in Itakane’s legacy of innovation and excellence in real estate education.

Today, Itakane Real Estate Academy remains at the forefront of real estate education in South Africa, committed to empowering the next generation of property practitioners and contributing to the ongoing growth and transformation of the industry.