Canadian Credit Union Association

This month is Fraud Prevention Month—a great time to refresh fraud prevention training. CCUA offers courses including Flag the Money, Understanding Information Security, Applied Consumer Lending, and Foundational Credit Structuring Principles to strengthen fraud detection, risk management, and lending skills. Explore the full range of training opportunities (member login required): https://lnkd.in/ebUMD5p5

Rooted in cooperation and financial security, Canada’s credit unions have a long history of stability. With strong regulatory oversight, deep local connections, and a century of experience, they are well-equipped to support Canadians through economic uncertainty.

Join CCUA and the Canada Sister Society, GWLN, for an important discussion on the impact of women in leadership, gender equality, and financial empowerment. Industry experts will share insights, challenges, and practical steps toward a more inclusive future. Tuesday, March 11, 2025 1:00 – 2:15 p.m. EST Speakers: Sandra McDowell, CEO, eLeadership Academy Roanne Weyermars, VP, Public Affairs & Communications, Coast Capital Savings Amanda Wantke, MBA, CCMP, Senior HR Business Partner, First West Credit Union Register now (CCUA members only): https://lnkd.in/eKJC8EaY

Today, on International Women’s Day, I want to take a moment to recognize and celebrate the invaluable contributions of women in the credit union sector and across all industries.   I would not be where I am today without the mentorship, support, and leadership of the remarkable women who have guided me throughout my career. Yet, despite their resilience and achievements, women continue to face systemic barriers to career advancement and leadership. However, they persist—driving meaningful change within their organizations and communities.   As leaders, we have a responsibility not just to acknowledge these challenges but to take meaningful action to address them.   The credit union sector has a strong legacy of championing women’s advancement, and we see this reflected in leadership today. Women hold 31% of CEO roles in Canadian credit unions—outpacing representation in other financial institutions. At CCUA, we are proud that 75% of our executive team and 70% of our workforce are women. This is not by chance but the result of a deliberate effort to foster an environment where women can thrive.   Yet representation alone is not enough. To truly support women’s career progression, workplaces must implement policies that promote mentorship, leadership development, and flexibility. At CCUA, we’ve taken concrete steps to drive change, including fully flexible work policies, parental leave top-ups, and a national DEI working group that brings together professionals across the credit union sector to share best practices and advance inclusion.   Allyship is also critical in this journey. It’s not just about supporting women—it’s about actively ensuring their voices are heard, their contributions are recognized, and their opportunities for advancement are equitable.   As a CEO, I know that leadership goes beyond setting policies. It requires listening, advocating, and using my platform to create space for women to lead.   On this International Women’s Day, I encourage my peers—especially those in leadership—to reflect on the actions they are taking to empower women in their organizations. Progress isn’t achieved through words alone. It requires deliberate action, sustained commitment, and a willingness to challenge the status quo.   Together, let’s continue building a future where women have equal opportunities to lead, innovate, and shape the world around them.

Today, we celebrate International Women’s Day and honor the resilience, leadership, and contributions of women in credit unions and beyond. From championing financial inclusion to supporting women in leadership, credit unions continue to play a vital role in advancing gender equity. Let’s continue working toward a future where all women and girls have the opportunity to thrive.

Only one week left! Do you know a talented young professional making a difference in your credit union? The National Credit Union Young Leaders Award recognizes outstanding individuals (35 and under) who are shaping the future of Canada’s credit union system. Submit a nomination by March 14: https://lnkd.in/g2y9PZrR

The future of finance is inclusive. Credit unions are uniquely positioned to ensure all women and girls have access to financial resources, leadership opportunities, and the support they need to thrive. How is your credit union driving progress? Share how you’re making a difference.

CCUA has launched a dedicated webpage to provide information on U.S. tariffs and their potential impact on credit unions. Members can access updates, resources, and analysis to stay informed. Learn more (member login required): https://lnkd.in/eJdX477G

The Canada Sister Society, launched in 2024, is a dedicated space for credit union professionals to connect, exchange ideas, and champion women’s leadership. Building a stronger, more equitable future requires collective action. The Canada Sister Society provides a platform for mentorship, collaboration, and learning to support women at all stages of their careers. Want to be part of the movement? Join the Sister Society today: https://lnkd.in/eipk4-Dy

Beem Credit Union welcomes Oscar Roque as Chief Product and Innovation Officer. With extensive experience in corporate strategy, product innovation, and transformation, he brings a strong vision for shaping Beem’s future. Oscar looks forward to driving meaningful change by leveraging a deep understanding of members and communities, turning complex challenges into opportunities, and fostering a united team. He officially joins on March 26, 2025. Photo Credit: Beem Credit Union