A Message From Our Outgoing Chair 2015
Outgoing message from our current Chair on her experiences, gains and advice as she moves on:
My first “aha” moment in the credit union movement happened when I applied to join CUYLM, when the committee officially began serving the Manitoba credit union system, in 2012. The “aha” was that I found my purpose which was to learn more about our system, develop my leadership skills, share ideas and collaborate with others and to find and promote opportunities for young leaders. And I was excited to find out that there were other young leaders in Manitoba that felt the same way I did!
Two of the most noticeable gains for me have been firstly the realization of both my strengths and weaknesses as a young leader and secondly the development of my leadership skills. The applied development and skill building practice I’ve received from committee work I could not learn through theory alone. CUYLM has given me an opportunity to practice my knowledge in a nurturing, safe environment with peers that are experiencing the same opportunities I am.
My branch team and credit union have also seen gains through my commitment to the CUYLM committee. I’ve gained tremendous confidence as a leader. My organizational skills, strategic understanding, presentation and public speaking skills have improved. I’ve integrated some amazing ideas to my branch team and credit union from perspectives I’ve gained through interactions I have through CUYLM. Collaboration and cooperation at its finest level happens here!
And lastly, CUYLM has really solidified my dedication to the Manitoba credit union system in three ways. It has opened my eyes to just how many intelligent young leaders we have here in the province (both on the committee and members-at-large). CUYLM has connected me to seasoned leaders in the province and shown me the talent and leadership we have in Manitoba. Work on this committee has introduced me to the executive and board at CUCM. As part of this group I’ve been honoured to learn from, work with and present to this amazing team of individuals who are so dedicated to the credit union system’s presence now and in the future.
I would like to extend an enormous thank you to CUYLM members-at-large for allowing me to work with you, to the CUYLM committee members past and present who have become lifelong friends and to my mentors and leaders who have supported my leadership journey. It has been an honour and a pleasure to have taken such an amazing journey to serve Manitoba’s credit union young leaders. As you can see I am a true advocate of the Credit Union system in Canada and Manitoba. Devoting the past three + years to mentoring and empowering other young leaders in this province to grow has been energizing and necessary for me.
Leadership is action! I promise to continue to do my part.
Sincerely, Lesia