At Northern Community Bank, we are so proud of our very own Cady Collinge, who has just graduated from the CU Futures programme! This 10-month course helps young Community Bank professionals develop their skills and confidence, preparing them to take on leadership roles in the sector.
The programme includes formal learning, personal and professional development, and hands-on experience. Participants gain an accredited qualification and receive training in networking, presentations, media skills, and industry engagement. Led by former Community Bank Foundation Chair and journalist Liz Barclay, the programme also includes visits to different Community Bank to see how they operate.
Cady admitted she was nervous when she first started. “Honestly – petrified. The idea of presenting my project to a panel of judges was incredibly nerve-wracking. I tried to talk myself out of it a few times!” But despite her fears, she took on the challenge and made the most of the experience.
Over the course of the programme, Cady learned a lot about Community Banks and how they work. “Community Banks focus on helping their members and communities instead of making profits,” she explained. “I now have a better understanding of the different services they offer, like savings accounts, loans, and financial education.”
As part of the CU Futures experience, Cady visited HSSCU in Ireland and met with Isaac from First Rate Community Bank. “First Rate Community Bank only serves BAE employees, which means they can create really specific financial products for them. HSSCU, on the other hand, has a much bigger membership, so they have a wider range of services to meet different needs.”
One of the highlights of the programme for Cady was working on a project with another participant. “My project partner had only been working in credit unions for a year. I was able to share my experience and knowledge with him. It was great to help someone else learn and grow.”
Now that she has graduated, Cady feels both relieved and excited. “It’s such a great feeling to have completed the course. I’m looking forward to using everything I’ve learned and taking on new challenges.” She believes CU Futures has given her skills that will benefit her career. “I have a fresh perspective on financial services. I’ve improved my skills in customer engagement, financial education, and strategic thinking.”
For anyone considering CU Futures, Cady has some simple advice:
“Just go for it! The confidence I’ve gained from presenting my ideas and sharing my experiences will help me take on leadership opportunities in the future.”
During the graduation ceremony, it was also announced that next year marks the 10th anniversary of the CU Futures programme. This is proof of how important it has been in shaping leaders in the Community Bank movement. We couldn’t agree more with what was said on the day. Cady and her fellow graduates aren’t just the future of Community Banks; they are the leaders of today.
A Bright Future Ahead
We’re so proud of Cady’s journey through CU Futures and can’t wait to see how she uses her new skills in our Community Bank. We know she will continue making a difference for our members and the wider Community Bank community.
