CDF Canada is pleased to share a meaningful commitment from Conexus Credit Union, who have announced a $100,000 donation to support our work in advancing co-operative development and leadership globally.
Of this donation, $50,000 will directly support our Women’s Mentorship Program (WMP), our flagship leadership program that equips women from credit unions and financial co-ops across the Global South with the skills, mentorship, and leadership abilities to lead change within their institutions and communities.
We are incredibly grateful for Conexus’ commitment to supporting leadership initiatives such as WMP. This investment not only represents a commitment to the work that we do, but also to the co-operative values that are at the heart of our co-operative organizations.
Conexus’ donation is more than just financial support. It reflects the strength and dedication of the Canadian credit union system and the role it plays as active partners in our work here at CDF and within the global co-operative development movement.
Through programs like WMP, Canadian credit unions and co-ops directly contribute to building leadership capacity, sharing expertise, and strengthening institutions with co-op partners globally. This model of partnership is a strong demonstration of the co-operative principle of co-operation among co-operatives, where the knowledge, experience, and leadership that exists within the Canadian sector can be leveraged to create lasting, systemic impact and change around the world.
Conexus’ commitment to WMP goes far beyond this donation, with a long history of hosting participants and supporting the program’s growth. Their recent merger with Synergy and Cornerstone brings an even deeper level of commitment, as both organizations have also been engaged champions and supporters, playing active roles as hosts and facilitators. Together, this represents not only a coming together of institutions, but also a deepening of shared experience and commitment to advancing women’s leadership across the global co-operative sector.
For Conexus, this donation reflects an investment that demonstrates their commitment to advancing women’s leadership, both within their organization and across the broader co-operative sector. Supporting CDF and WMP reflects their belief that creating opportunities for women leaders is essential for building stronger, more inclusive, and resilient organizations.
By supporting WMP, Conexus is contributing to a model of leadership development that benefits everyone involved, from the participants themselves, to the host credit unions, to the communities those leaders serve. It is an approach that recognizes leadership as something to be shared, strengthened, and carried forward across borders.
Because when co-operatives invest in each other, the impact extends far beyond any one organization. It strengthens the entire movement.
At CDF Canada, our work is made possible through partnerships like this one with Conexus, partnerships grounded in shared co-operative values and a shared commitment to building stronger, more inclusive co-operative systems.
We extend our sincere thanks to Conexus Credit Union for their leadership, engagement, and belief in the power of co-operation, and for their trust in CDF Canada. Because when co-operatives invest in each other, the impact extends far beyond any one organization. It strengthens the entire movement.
