In 2025, the Elevate Female Leadership Program welcomed a talented cohort of female leaders from across Transdev Australia and New Zealand. Designed to build leadership capability and expand influence, the program has supported participants to take confident steps forward in their careers.
We caught up with three graduates from last year’s Program, whose growth, achievements and ongoing contributions demonstrate what’s possible when women are given the tools and support to lead.
Shayna Fraticelli, who commenced the program as Head of Remuneration & Benefits, reflects on the experience:
“The program gave me the confidence to back myself and my capabilities. It allowed me to become truly comfortable with my unique leadership style and reinforced that I was appointed to my role for my thinking.”
Since completing the program, she’s taken on a broader remit as Head of HR Governance & Systems requiring her to work more frequently with businesses across Transdev’s international footprint. Shayna added that being recognised Transdev Australia & New Zealand annual employee recognition awards as Journey Maker of the Year was a milestone of which she was particularly proud.
Monika Rudolf, Head of Performance & Reporting, describes the biggest shift being in how she sees herself, now recognising the strategic value and influence she brings.
“The program reshaped how I approach leadership. I now see my role extending well beyond metrics and dashboards – focusing on driving strategy, aligning teams and empowering them to reach their full potential,” she said.
Rebuilding her career in Australia from the ground up after emigrating from Hungary remains a deeply personal achievement that continues to shape her compassionate leadership style.
Anita Panchal, Operations Centre Manager, credits the program with strengthening her strategic focus and leadership presence.
“It shifted my mindset from managing tasks to influencing outcomes, giving me the confidence to step forward in moments that require decisive leadership,” she said.
Since graduating, Anita has transitioned into her current operational leadership role, broadening her perspective across the wider service environment. Delivering her final presentation to senior leaders was a defining moment in the Program that transformed her confidence and reinforced her belief in her capability.
“Leadership programs don’t just grow individuals – they lift the entire culture of the organisation”
Monika Rudolph, Head of Performance & Reporting
Asked what advice they would give other professionals considering embarking on a development program like Elevate, Shayna said: “There’s no ‘one size fits all’ approach, so shape it in a way that suits you – it’s your leadership journey!”
“Programs like this create space to step back from day-to-day delivery and invest in your leadership identity, how you influence, lead and the impact you want to create,” said Monika.
“Leadership programs don’t just grow individuals – they lift the entire culture of the organisation.”
Anita encouraged an open mind and readiness to be surprised by how the experience might change you.
“Be ready to challenge yourself, embrace new perspectives and reflect on your growth,” she said.
“The connections you’ll make, experience you’ll gain and personal transformation you’ll undergo make it an incredibly rewarding experience.
“Most importantly, enjoy the journey and have fun!”