It’s another proud moment for Qwrk Outsourcing: its Management Mentoring Program (MMP) has been named a Finalist for Training and Development Program of the Year at the Women in Finance Awards 2025.
At the center of this recognition is Christine Beth Ferolin, Qwrk’s Training and Development Manager — a former educator who never expected that leaving the academe would one day lead her to rediscover her purpose in a corporate setting.
“When I returned to the corporate world after years in academe, I honestly felt like a fish out of water,” Christine recalled. “I was second-guessing myself at every turn. It was a big leap out of my comfort zone, and I often wondered if I could still make a meaningful contribution.”
What started as an uncertain career shift became a continuation of her calling. And now, the program she leads is being recognised on a national stage.
“Being recognized as a finalist for this award affirms that those moments of doubt were worth pushing through,” she said. “It reminds me that what we’re doing matters.”
From Learning to Leading
Christine’s transition from academe to corporate revealed a clear parallel: whether in a classroom or an organisation, she has always been driven by the same mission — to help people grow.
“Helping people become the best versions of themselves has always been my life’s mission,” she shared. “And perhaps this passion comes from my own experience, because I, too, have been in the position of needing guidance and support to navigate my career and personal challenges. That’s why this recognition means so much — because it reflects not just the success of a program, but the heart behind it: a genuine desire to pay forward the help I once needed myself.”
Building a Mentorship Program with Heart and Structure
Launched in 2023, the Management Mentoring Program was Qwrk’s response to the growing need for unified, confident leadership as the organisation scaled. Christine brought her background in education and mentoring into the program’s design, creating a learning experience built on structure and genuine connection.
The program integrates:
- One-on-one mentoring
- Monthly group leadership sessions
- TalentLMS modules for continuous learning
- Feedback loops and coaching
“To be honest, when we first launched the program, I was a little afraid that it might lose momentum after the first year,” Christine said. “That maybe by then, our managers would already have gotten what they needed. But lo and behold, we’re still here and are now powering through another year — stronger and more engaged than ever, I hope.”
Growth That Shows in Tangible Results
Two years in, the Management Mentoring Program has produced meaningful transformation — visible in both numbers and everyday leadership.
Team members have reported a 29.5% increase in leadership effectiveness, with ratings rising from 7.12 to 9.31. The program maintains a 4.94/5 satisfaction score, and its TalentLMS modules hold a 4.78/5 rating, showing strong engagement and trust.
But the impact goes beyond metrics. Managers make clearer decisions, communicate with confidence, navigate conflict more effectively, and support their teams more intentionally. These shifts have strengthened Qwrk’s culture — creating more self-aware leaders, smoother collaboration, and a more consistent management approach across the organisation.
“What I’m most proud of are the changed lives of our managers and team leads,” Christine shared. “Everyone came in with their own expectations and, understandably, a few doubts. But what stood out to me was the openness and willingness each person brought into every session. Without that, this program would have no meaning.”
Leadership That Shapes Culture
Christine sees the program not just as a set of training sessions, but as a responsibility — one that shapes people, culture, and the future of the organisation.
“Never underestimate the power of investing in people,” she said. “Programs, processes, and systems are important, but it’s people who bring them to life, carry the vision forward, and make organizations truly thrive. When we take time to listen, guide, and believe in people, we don’t just shape better professionals — we nurture better human beings.”
Now in Sydney for the awards ceremony, Christine is excited to celebrate with the Qwrk team and learn from other industry leaders.
“Winning would be amazing,” she said with a smile, “but what I’m most looking forward to is meeting other incredible organizations and learning about their initiatives. It’s inspiring to see how others are making an impact — and I can’t wait to bring new insights home to Qwrk.”
Christine will be joining fellow finalists — Jo Hall, Qwrk Outsourcing Managing Director, nominated for CEO of the Year and Innovator of the Year, and Cathy Young, Qwrk Outsourcing Operations Manager, representing the Mental Health and Wellness Program, nominated for Wellness Program/Initiative of the Year — alongside hundreds of outstanding women at the Women in Finance Awards 2025 ceremony in Sydney. The event will be held on Friday, 14 November 2025, at 7:00 p.m. AEDT at the Hyatt Regency Sydney.
