Virtual programs cultivate entrepreneurial mindset

In the last seven months, TELUS International Philippines, a leading provider of customer experience and digital IT solutions, has developed virtual programs to help over 17,000 of its team members to continue learning and developing new skills despite the current remote work-set-up.

The community quarantine caused by the COVID-19 pandemic has brought out the innovative and enterprising nature of Filipinos. From the ube cheese pandesal craze, cinnamon roll and garlic bread phase to the chocolate chip cookies and red velvet crinkles addiction, creative home bakers have developed a following and popularity among online patrons.

“With the remote setting of work, especially at the beginning of the quarantine, we ensured that we constantly communicate with our team members and continue interest-based programs through various webinars that equip them with skills that cater to their personal passions and interests,” said Pia Gajasan, Corporate Communications Manager for TELUS International Philippines.

In partnership with M Bakery, a popular bakeshop known for its freshly made desserts, TELUS International Philippines organized a virtual icing class to demonstrate icing techniques and help home bakers level up their decorating skills.

The class featured inscription making, piped flower designing, and even making filled cupcakes using buttercream icing on a signature M Bakery vanilla cupcake.

“With our icing classes at M Bakery, we are helping people learn the art of designing cupcakes that will prove a useful skill if you’re a baker or homepreneur looking into catering, gender reveals or even theme parties,” said Stewart Ong, managing partner of Phil Jacobe Ventures Inc., M Bakery’s franchisee in the Philippines.

At TELUS International Philippines, team members are empowered to continue pursuing their personal interests and passions like culinary arts, fashion design, foreign languages or complete diploma programs or short courses with various partner educational institutions through the TELUS International University.

Even amid a hybrid work-setting, team members are still able to chart their growth path by making training programs available during this time. Wellness sessions are also in place to ensure that mental health needs are prioritized and addressed.

“The need for work-life integration is much needed as professionals try to manage and balance their home responsibilities, personal needs, and professional obligations. We continue to develop programs for our team members to help them cope with the current situation, feel a sense of safety and security at work, and allow them to continue achieving the goals they set out for themselves,” said Carlos Giammattei, Brand, Marketing and Culture Director at TELUS International Philippines.