Emerging Leaders Spotlight: Aileen Cabutotan and finding your own way to lead
When Aileen Cabutotan first came across PTAANZ Emerging Leaders, it was the sense of community that caught her attention.
A colleague who had previously been part of the program encouraged her to apply, while attending the Emerging Mobility Leaders Seminar in 2024 gave her a first glimpse of the network.
“I loved seeing people at a similar stage in their careers connecting and learning from each other,” says Aileen, a Bid Coordinator at UGL.
Now an Emerging Leader herself, she says those connections have become one of the most valuable parts of the experience.
Finding a community
“It’s been great meeting other young professionals, not just from my own organisation but from across different organisations and areas of the transport industry,” Aileen says.
“I didn’t necessarily expect the network itself to become such a valuable part of the experience.”
One experience brought that journey full circle. After attending the EML Seminar in 2024, Aileen returned in 2026 as an Emerging Leader helping to organise the event.
“It was really special to come back this time as an Emerging Leader and actually be part of organising our own event,” she says. “Seeing the great turnout and receiving such positive feedback afterwards made all the effort worthwhile.”
Stepping outside the comfort zone
As someone who describes herself as naturally introverted, Aileen says Emerging Leaders has also encouraged her to expand her professional circle and become more comfortable networking.
“The program has encouraged me to slowly step outside my comfort zone,” she says.
And that experience has shaped the advice she would give anyone considering applying — particularly those who don’t necessarily see themselves as a natural networker or leader.
“You don’t have to already see yourself as a leader or be naturally confident at networking to be part of the program.”
For Aileen, that’s part of what Emerging Leaders is about: creating a supportive place to build confidence, make connections and find your own approach to leadership.
“Leadership can look different for everyone. The program gives you a supportive space to step outside your comfort zone, build your confidence and discover your own way of leading.”