The makings of a Culture and Enablement powerhouse

As Belong’s Culture and Enablement Lead, Nikita Melwani says no two days are alike, and that’s just one of the many kicks she gets out of her role.??

Starting her journey at Belong as an Executive Assistant and quickly moving onto an Experience Enablement Specialist, it’s clear Niki was a go-getter from day one.??

Four years and a whole lot of hustling later, Niki now leads the way in Culture and Enablement at Belong. ??

So, what exactly does a Culture and Enablement Lead do???

‘To sum it up, it’s all about ensuring that each employee’s experience at Belong is an awesome one.’, Niki explains. From shaping the onboarding experience for new starters to restocking the tea in the kitchen – no job is too big or too small for Niki and her team. ??

To give us more of an idea of what’s involved, Niki filled us in on what you can expect to see a Culture and Enablement Lead doing on any given day:??

• Planning activities and events for our Recognition and Reward program and Affiliate Groups (to name just a few) to shine a light on the great work happening at Belong?
• Running inductions and gathering all the gear new starters need so they can put their best foot forward in their new roles?
• Making sure people leaders have all the documents and details they need when it comes to onboarding, performance, coaching and much more?
• Meticulously making sure that the office is a safe space for all employees??

From Executive Assistant to a People Leader – how'd you get here???

‘Belong is super supportive when it comes to career progression and providing opportunities for development. From the get-go, I was given the freedom to experiment and innovate with my ideas.’ ?

‘I’ve always been very outcome-driven. For me, the best way to support people across the business has always started with putting myself in their shoes. Being encouraged to harness those strengths played a big part in my career progression and eventually led to a promotion.’??

While we’re talking strengths, Niki’s got heaps. It’s qualities like her creativity, drive and curiosity (to name just a few) that have propelled her career here at Belong above all else.??

What are some highlights you’ve experienced along the way???

‘There’s never a dull moment in my job. One of the best parts is that I get to work with so many great people from across the business, all with unique talents. Joining forces with them and being there for those lightbulb moments is so special.’??

As for achievements, Niki has a heap under her belt. ‘Winning the Telstra Excellence Award in 2020 is definitely up there, but building the Culture and Enablement function here at Belong takes the cake. I get to work with an amazing bunch of people every day while supporting Belong’s people and culture.’??

And to wrap up, can you let us in on what leadership means to you???

‘Being in a leadership position is such a rewarding and illuminating experience. While I learn more and more about leadership from my role every day, I’d have to say my key takeaway is focusing on the why in everything you do, not just the what or how. Whether the work you’re doing is for your customer-base or your coworkers, putting yourself in someone else’s shoes is key to better understanding their perspective and experiences.’?