Dina Werstak

Describe yourself in 3 words

Strategic, Dynamic, Visionary

With most people working from home and their work being assessable to them 24/7 what is the best advice you’d give on how to switch off to avoid burn out?

Embrace the flexibility of the home office while setting clear boundaries to prevent burnout. Regularly schedule 'offline hours' where work notifications are silenced, fostering a real separation between personal and professional life. Enhance team visibility by sharing achievements through weekly summaries and encourage varied interactions with peers.

If you were to choose one thing in your opinion what is the key to successfully managing projects/teams remotely?

Effective remote project management requires personalised engagement. Understanding individual working styles and adapting communication and tasks accordingly enhances productivity and morale.

Do you think we can learn anything from working remotely? And if so what is it?

Remote work highlights the importance of self-discipline and trust. Adapting tools to fit unique needs and accommodating diverse work habits enhance productivity and satisfaction.

What’s one of your favourite resources for project management and/or one you think is needed in the community.

Retrospectives - Continuous Improvement, Emotional Intelligence, and Self-Awareness foster a culture of adaptability and learning, crucial for managing diverse teams, innovation and achieving successful outcomes.

What have been the biggest challenges in your career to date?

Rebuilding my professional identity in a new country was a major challenge. I navigated this through continuous learning, network building, and community engagement, which enriched my leadership and project management approach.

What has been the proudest moment in your life so far?

Witnessing the growth and achievements of those I've mentored, especially younger family members and students, has been incredibly gratifying. It underscores the impact of my guidance on their life decisions.

Flash Questions

Agile, Waterfall, Wagile or What’s your preferred project management methodology?
Agile is my preferred methodology, aligning with my commitment to continuous learning and innovation in project delivery.

Cause you’re Passionate about?
Animal welfare and mental health awareness.

Favourite Podcast or Blog?
I access a variety of content on-demand to stay informed with the most relevant and current insights. I'm not tied to any specific medium, allowing me to draw from diverse sources.

Favourite Singer/Band?
My musical tastes are eclectic, shaped by years in Brazil where I indulged in its rich variety of rhythms —from bossa nova to samba, each suited for different moments and moods.

What’s the best book you’ve ever read/listened to?
'The Shack' by William P. Young, a profound narrative on faith, forgiveness, and the nature of God that challenged my perspectives on spirituality and healing.

Other Jobs you’ve had in the past?
Teacher, Financial Controller, Dog Sitter/Walker, Childminder, Store Assistant, Business Owner, Research Associate, Business Analyst, and Project Manager. Each position has honed different facets of my professional abilities, from analytical skills and financial acumen.

Favourite line from a song, movie or poem?
'I'm so excited, and I just can't hide it, I'm about to lose control and I think I like it,' encapsulates the thrill of my successes.