2016 Women In Super scholarship winner: Q&A with UniSuper's Jade Khao

I chose the Lean for Leaders course because I wanted to learn more about change management and how to effectively implement change in an organisation.

One of the greatest benefits was looking at how processes interact within an organisation and how change is received by the staff of an organisation. It was also interesting to learn about how to motivate and obtain general consensus around the implementation of change within an organisation. I learnt how to involve existing members of staff, helping them to own the changes that are happening around them, which makes the process much more practical and relevant for them.

I've definitely been able to have some insight into how things work and I've been able to see our current organisational processes in a different light. With the information that I learnt from the Lean for Leaders course I was able to say, "Oh, that's why this is happening" or "that's why they're doing it this way." This allowed me to have a different perspective that extended beyond the idea that the organisation was just making more unnecessary changes. It has most definitely broadened my knowledge of this area of change management.

I would definitely encourage other women to join because they run a lot of really good sessions that help with personal growth, career growth and leadership capabilities. Personally, I've benefited from being a member because I think I've grown a lot as a result of attending various education seminars.

I felt these organisations had training, education and career development programs that one could utilise irrespective of gender some of which I have benefited from. Specifically for women, Commonwealth Bank had a great maternity program to assist women to navigate the issues around leaving the workforce and subsequently returning to the workforce and the things they could do to get their career back on track whilst achieving work life balance. UniSuper ran a 6 month 'women mentoring women' program, enabling greater networking opportunities with senior women staff and opportunities to discuss career development goals. After the 6 months, the mentoring program broadened to the wider company and I continued to participate as a mentor.

I'd definitely have to say my Mum. She has had a huge impact on both my career and my life. Every time a major decision needs to be made in my life, be it career orientated or personal, she's one of the top people that I turn to. She's had many years of experience running her own business and the entrepreneurship and business savvy that she brings to her life is something that I draw upon when I'm trying to make a decision.

I wanted to look at giving back to the community in some way and I wanted to do more than just contribute financially, I wanted to contribute my effort, skill and labour. The SES were looking for some volunteers and I've always admired their courage and the work that that do - particularly in times of natural disasters. It was also a great way to meet like minded people. It was a really good experience!

My very successful aunt once sent this to me and has stuck with me since: "Face your challenges head on knowing that these will make you emerge stronger and better than you were. We can use the storms of life to rise to greater heights. Achievers are not afraid to rise to greater heights. Achievers are not afraid of challenges, rather they relish them and use them profitably."

Back in high school, I worked in a video rental store earning $6 p/h. Yes, VHS cassettes, if you were wondering.

I am sponsoring 2 children from underdeveloped countries through Plan International to provide them with the resources for clean water and living and education. Having children of my own, I particularly feel the responsibility to ensure our next generation have a better future.

Head to the Women In Super website to find out more about the program. Applications must be submitted by 5pm Friday 7 April 2017. If you have any questions about the application process or selection criteria email<ahref="mailto:[email protected]">[email protected] or call 03 8677 3827.