Dave Hyde 

Chief Operating and Information Officer, Fusion Credit Union 

Career: 

Start in the credit union system: 2018 

Coming out of high school, Dave didn't have a clear vision of his career path, but he did have a strong understanding of his interests. He knew he wanted to work in a field related to math, science or technology. 

Since then, Dave's career has taken him through a variety of different industries, including academia, municipal government, food manufacturing, software and finance. The common thread throughout his journey has been the opportunity to make a positive impact on the communities he serves. 

A typical day: 

Dave says each day is a new adventure, although a few priorities remain constant. First and foremost, he focuses on people, believing that their success is directly tied to his own. He also sets aside dedicated blocks of uninterrupted time each week for deep, focused work. 

A key part of his role is balancing day-to-day operational excellence with thinking strategically about future opportunities and helping bring those possibilities to life. 

Continuous learning and improvement: 

Continuous learning comes naturally to Dave. He enjoys learning and actively seeks opportunities to grow in both his professional and personal life. Some of his top tips for learning and development include: 

1. Find a mentor whose experience and perspective resonate with you. 

2. Never underestimate the value of reading. 

3. Don't wait for opportunities to come to you. Seek them out and clearly communicate your goals and aspirations. 

4. Growth is often uncomfortable. When you have the capacity, lean into that discomfort because it is usually where the greatest development occurs. 

5. Take time to reflect on your goals and growth aspirations. If needed, work with a trusted advisor to help guide that process. 

Keys to success: 

Dave feels incredibly fortunate to have had excellent mentors throughout his career. "Iron sharpens iron," he says, crediting much of his growth to learning from and working alongside talented people. 

He also believes success comes from being proactive. Rather than leaving mentorship to chance, Dave intentionally sought out people he could learn from and build relationships with throughout his career. 

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders: 

When it comes to leadership books, Dave recommends the work of Simon Sinek, particularly Leaders Eat Last and Start With Why. 

He also enjoys the podcast Acquired, noting that while episodes are lengthy, they offer valuable insights. The episode on Visa, in particular, stood out to him because of its relevance to the financial services industry. 

That said, Dave believes that no resource, including formal education, has contributed more to his personal and professional development than having great mentors. 

He also emphasizes the importance of personal wellness. Prioritizing sleep, nutrition, exercise, and activities such as outdoor walks not only supports overall well-being but also enhances professional performance. 

Guiding principles: 

At a high level, Dave strives to align his actions with his values and ethics. He also follows several practical principles that help guide his decision-making: 

1. Consider the value of every initiative. Does it drive revenue, reduce costs, improve the member or employee experience, or strengthen compliance? If not, ask why it is being done. 

2. Don't let perfect be the enemy of good. Simplicity is often the best approach, which aligns with the KISS (Keep It Simple) principle. 

3. Remember that business is ultimately about people, so prioritize them. 

4. Put your health and family first. Long-term success is not sustainable without taking care of the people and priorities that matter most. 

We’re thrilled to recognize Dana Boryskiewich, Fusion Credit Union, as our Member Service Excellence Spotlight winner for Q2 2026!

Dana has been part of the credit union family for nearly three decades, beginning her journey as a young member in a small town. When a position opened at her local credit union, she decided to give it a try, and has been dedicated to the system ever since.

Starting as an Member Service Representative (MSR) Postal Clerk at Fusion Credit Union, Dana progressed through roles including Supervisor, Products and Services, Compliance Officer, Privacy Officer, and Strategic Team member. She now contributes her expertise to the Learning and Development team. Although based in the Russell branch, Dana works remotely, continuing to serve members with passion and dedication.

Dana was nominated by her co-worker because of the hard work she puts into helping her peers. She holds a non-member-facing role, so the “members” she serves are her coworkers, specifically onboarding new employees. Dana specializes in onboarding new employees moving into deposit-focused roles. Recognizing that onboarding is an ongoing process with ever-evolving needs, Dana saw that traditional in-person onboarding no longer met the demands of a dispersed workforce with varied schedules and learning styles.

To address this, Dana created a comprehensive, “from the ground up” onboarding training program for new deposit employees. This program combines self-led training, job shadowing, and manager/L&D support via Teams to provide ongoing feedback and guidance. She invested countless hours, including outside of work, to develop a flexible, multi-channel learning experience that meets diverse learning needs.

The program features an interactive workbook, instructional videos, and practical exercises — including a digital cashbox for staff to track and balance cash holdings — and collaborative group chats to foster peer learning. Dana also equipped supervisors and managers with tools to better support new employees throughout their training journey.

When we asked what inspires Dana, she said it is the service — helping members and empowering new team members with the confidence and knowledge they need to succeed. She believes that everyone working within the credit union system is also a member and deserves the same level of care and respect. Dana emphasizes that when employees are happy in their roles, it reflects in the quality of service they provide, hence providing the best possible service to members of the credit union system.

Being part of a co-operative means collaboration and putting members first. This foundation inspired Dana to build a learning platform that supports different learning styles and paces, helping team members grow their skills and knowledge. Her advice to others is:

“Think about how you want to be served and then do better. Always imagine yourself in someone else’s shoes, even if you don’t know their full story. Never give up — learning is a lifelong journey. And remember, small gestures can make a huge impact.”

Dana’s journey highlights the power of service, growth, and the co-operative spirit that makes credit unions so special.

Nominate a colleague for CUYLM’s Member Service Excellence Spotlight for Q3 of 2026! Deadline is Wednesday, September 30:
CUYLM's Member Service Excellence Spotlight - Nomination Form

Mikee Gabriel

Manager, Teller Services, Steinbach Credit Union

Career:

Start in the financial services industry: 2015
Start in the credit union system: 2016

Since high school, Mikee has aspired to become a lawyer. Drawn to understanding people, solving problems and standing up for what is right, she has always wanted to pursue a career that allows her to help others and make a difference.

Her professional journey began in retail, where she gained experience working directly with customers and building strong interpersonal skills. Those early experiences sparked her passion for working with and supporting people and helped lay the foundation for her move into financial services.

Mikee began her career in the credit union system at Assiniboine Credit Union as a Member Services Representative (MSR) before later moving to Steinbach Credit Union. Since then, she has continued to grow through a variety of roles, take on leadership responsibilities, and develop her ability to coach and make a positive impact on others.

Today, she continues to work toward her long-term goal by pursuing a degree in Criminal Justice on a part-time basis, with hopes of becoming a lawyer in the future. Outside of her career at Steinbach Credit Union, she also owns a coffee and matcha bar, an experience that has allowed her to build something from the ground up and develop valuable business skills.

A typical day:

Mikee’s workday is a mix of planning, problem-solving and connecting with people. She typically begins by checking in with her team to ensure everyone feels prepared, supported and ready for the day ahead. From there, her priorities can shift as challenges and opportunities arise. While some days are structured, others require quick thinking and adaptability. Through it all, a significant part of her role is coaching team members, answering questions and helping them build confidence in their abilities. She takes pride in creating an environment where people feel supported and encouraged to grow.

Continuous learning and improvement:

Mikee believes learning never really stops. There is always a new skill to develop, a different perspective to consider or an opportunity to improve. She stays focused on growth by being open to feedback, learning from colleagues and team members, and reflecting on what she could do differently in the future. Some of her most valuable learning moments have come from situations that did not go as planned – which, as a leader, happens more often that many would like to admit.

Keys to success:

For Mikee, success is rooted in the belief that there is always room to grow. She has never defined success as reaching a particular position or milestone. Instead, she sees it as the ongoing process of becoming a better version of herself.

She’s also grateful to have people around her who believe in her, support her and push her to reach her potential. In her view, success is rarely achieved alone – it is shaped by the lessons we learn, the challenges we overcome, and the people who walk alongside us.

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders:

• Dare to Lead by Brené Brown (book)

• How Great Leaders Inspire Action by Simon Sinek (TED Talk)

• Hidden Figures (film)

Guiding principles:

Mikee’s guiding principles are simple: be kind, be resilient, and keep growing. She believes people may not always remember exactly what you did, but they will remember how you made them feel. She strives to lead with compassion, stay committed when things become challenging, and continue learning from every experience and every person she encounters.

Himani Rishi

Retail Lending Officer II, Access Credit Union

Career:

Start in the credit union system: 2022
Start in the financial services industry: 2017

In high school, it was Himani’s dream to work in a financial institution. She was fascinated by the banking industry and the important role financial institutions play in helping people achieve their goals. She was particularly interested in working with people, helping them make informed financial decisions and building relationships. That early interest inspired her to pursue opportunities in the financial services industry and ultimately led to her career in lending.

Himani started her career in India, where she worked in the banking industry for almost four years. During that time, she gained valuable knowledge and experience in customer service, financial products and relationship management.

As she progressed in her career, she felt the need to expand her knowledge and skills, so she took a break to pursue higher education. Upon competing her studies in Canada, she began her career path in the credit union system.

Since then, she has continued to grow professionally, building expertise in lending while helping members achieve their financial goals and demonstrating her commitment to the values of the credit union system.

A typical day:

A typical workday involves meeting with members, reviewing lending applications, answering questions, and helping people find solutions that meet their financial needs. She also works closely with colleagues and other professionals like realtors and lawyers to ensure applications are processed smoothly and members receive excellent service. Every day brings new opportunities to learn and help others achieve their goals.

Continuous learning and improvement:

Himani prioritizes continuous learning by seeking feedback, participating in training opportunities and staying current on industry trends. She learns from experienced colleagues and mentors, regularly reflects on her experiences and looks for ways to improve her skills. She believes that maintaining a growth mindset has helped her provide the best service to members and advance in her career.

Keys to success:

Himani credits her success to her adaptability and willingness to learn. Moving from India to Canada, pursuing higher education and building a career in a new country required dedication and, most importantly, a positive mindset. She has always been open to learning from others, embracing challenges and continuously improving herself.

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders:

Himani recommends Atomic Habits by James Clear because it provides practical strategies for building positive habits and creating lasting change through small but consistent actions. She also recommends leadership and personal development content by Brian Tracy and Simon Sinek, whose insights on leadership, communication, and personal growth are both practical and inspiring. Additionally, she suggests Can't Hurt Me by David Goggins – a powerful read that highlights the importance of resilience, mental toughness, and staying committed especially when facing challenges.

Guiding principles:

Kindness, accountability, and continuous growth are the principles that guide Himani. She believes in treating everyone with respect, doing the right thing even when no one is watching, taking ownership of her actions, and always looking for opportunities to learn and improve. She also believes strongly in helping others succeed and making a positive impact in her workplace and community at large.

Nicole Giesbrecht 

Manager, Member Contact Centre Operations, Steinbach Credit Union 

Career: 

Start in the credit union system: 2011 
Start in the financial services industry: 2000 

In high school, Nicole considered becoming a lawyer while working part-time as a server. Around that time, a conversation with a financial advisor about RSPs led to an unexpected opportunity: the advisor encouraged her to apply at the bank. Nicole took that advice and began her career with TD Canada Trust as a part-time teller, where she gradually moved into a variety of roles and built experience across different areas of the business. 

In 2011, she joined Steinbach Credit Union as a Consumer Lending Officer and spent several years deepening her expertise in the role. She later stepped into an Assistant Manager position in Consumer Lending, where the guidance of a strong leader helped her transition from individual contributor to people leader, a pivotal stage in her career. 

Over time, Nicole began looking for ways to broaden her experience across the organization. That search led her to the Contact Centre, where she could once again work across multiple areas of the business, an aspect of her earlier career she had always valued. She has now been in her current role for nearly five years, and it has been a rewarding period of growth, learning, and new challenges. 

A typical day: 

A typical day in Nicole’s role is both structured and dynamic. While scheduled Teams meetings often shape her day, unexpected priorities regularly emerge and demand immediate attention. In a fast-paced environment like the Contact Centre, even carefully planned days can shift quickly. 

The Contact Centre is one of Steinbach’s primary points of connection with members, and Nicole collaborates with many departments across the organization to help deliver excellent service. That cross-functional work keeps each day engaging and underscores the value of strong internal partnerships. 

Nicole also values the opportunity to work alongside a leadership team that is driven, knowledgeable, and deeply committed to both employees and members. Supporting and developing that team is a meaningful part of her role, whether through quick day-to-day conversations or more structured coaching focused on problem-solving and capability building. 

Data and reporting are also central to Nicole’s daily work. She regularly reviews trends, identifies gaps, and looks for opportunities to improve performance. Although she enjoys working with data, the most rewarding part of her role is supporting her team and serving Steinbach’s members. 

Continuous learning and improvement: 

Nicole brings a natural curiosity to her work, which has played an important role in her ongoing learning and growth. By staying open to new ideas and experiences, she continues to expand her knowledge and build new skills. 

Throughout her career, she has taken part in several impactful development programs that have reinforced key leadership principles and challenged her to grow. Her credit union also offers a strong learning platform with access to a wide range of resources, from short targeted modules to more in-depth training, which she actively uses. 

When Nicole encounters a challenge or unfamiliar situation, she takes a proactive approach by seeking out resources and perspectives that can help guide her thinking. She also draws on the tools and frameworks she has gained throughout her leadership journey to shape a thoughtful and effective path forward. 

Keys to success: 

Nicole says strong collaboration, both across the organization and beyond, has been one of the biggest contributors to her success. Leading a Contact Centre has given her the opportunity to build and strengthen relationships across departments and throughout the industry. She values collaboration as a way to deliver a seamless, high-quality member experience, and she uses her understanding of how the business connects to drive better outcomes. 

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders: 

Nicole recommends eLeadership Academy and Leadership First as valuable resources for young leaders. After hearing a presenter, she often follows them on Instagram or LinkedIn, which frequently leads her to other helpful voices and connections.  

Guiding principles: 

Nicole’s leadership is grounded in authenticity, which helps her build trust and credibility with the people she leads and serves. She is committed to developing others and supporting them as they grow along their own paths. By fostering a supportive, high‑performing team environment, she helps ensure that members receive consistently high‑quality service.

We’re thrilled to recognize Marlee Jasper, Managing Partner, Access Credit Union as our Member Service Excellence Spotlight winner for Q1 2026!

For Marlee, a career in the credit union system began fresh out of high school, and over the past 15 years, it has grown into a passion rooted in service, empathy, and doing what’s right for members.

Encouraged by her mother and aunt, both long‑time credit union employees, Marlee started her journey as a Member Service Representative (MSR). Unsure at first what path she wanted to pursue, she quickly discovered a love for the credit union system and the meaningful connections built with members every day.

Her career progression reflects her dedication to learning and growth, moving from MSR to Senior MSR, then into a Lending Administrator role, Lender, Senior Lender, and eventually into management. Along the way, she worked at two credit unions that later merged with Access Credit Union, giving her a deep understanding of the cooperative system and the communities it serves.

The story that led to Marlee’s nomination highlights her compassion and leadership, particularly when supporting a member experiencing cognitive challenges. Recognizing that added stress and confusion could make the situation more difficult for the member, Marlee took a thoughtful, proactive approach. She reminded colleagues to handle interactions with care, patience, and kindness, ensuring the member felt reassured and supported at every step.

By acknowledging the member’s concerns, offering calm reassurance, and approaching each interaction with empathy, Marlee demonstrated what exceptional member service truly looks like — meeting members where they are and responding with understanding, even in complex situations.

To Marlee, being part of a cooperative means coming together for the good of members, colleagues, and communities. She values relationships, whether with members, her team, local organizations, or community partners, and believes strongly in supporting one another however possible. While she understands the importance of compliance and policy, she also knows that great service often means thinking creatively and ensuring decisions truly make sense for the member.

When asked what advice she would share about delivering excellent member service?

Marlee keeps it simple: Do the right thing. Get to know your members, understand their needs, know your policies, and meet in the middle whenever possible. Above all, be human, because kindness, connection, and care make all the difference.

Nominations for the Q2 2026 Member Service Excellence Spotlight are now open!

Submit your nomination by Tuesday, June 30, 2026 and help us recognize outstanding service across the credit union system.

Michelle Watson

Controller, Stride Credit Union

Career:

Start in the credit union system: April 2019

In high school, Michelle wanted to pursue a career in athletic therapy, since sports have always been an important part of her life. She began her university studies in kinesiology before discovering a growing interest in business, which changed her academic focus.

After completing university, Michelle worked as a personal trainer, but when an opportunity to start a career in the credit union system came up, she took it.

Michelle joined Stride Credit Union in April 2019 as a Member Experience Associate (MEA), working on the front line and gaining valuable firsthand experience with members and operations. Not long after, she took on a new role as Deposit Administrator, and by January 2020, she moved into the finance department as a Financial Analyst. In February 2023, Michelle accepted her current role as Controller. With an educational background in accounting, her progression into finance was always a clear goal and a natural fit.

A typical day:

Michelle’s day typically begins with morning reporting and reviewing transactions from the previous day. From there, no two days look quite the same. Her role spans a wide range of responsibilities, including preparing financial statements, monitoring and balancing general ledgers to ensure accuracy, supporting departmental projects, completing regulatory reporting, and computing profitability to help inform decision-making.

Continuous learning and improvement:

Driven by a strong commitment to growth, Michelle seeks out new projects and opportunities – even when they fall outside of her usual scope. She embraces new challenges as learning experiences and continues to invest in her professional development by taking additional finance and accounting courses to expand her knowledge and capabilities.

Keys to success:

Throughout her career at Stride, Michelle has been fortunate to work alongside teams that believed in her and encouraged her to grow. With each role change, she was supported and challenged to take the next step, which helped her get where she is today. That support, combined with her willingness to say yes to new opportunities, has been a key driver of her success.

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders:

Some books Michelle has enjoyed reading include Atomic Habits by James Clear, Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek and The Hard Thing About Hard Things by Ben Horowitz.

Guiding principles:

Shaped by her background in sports, Michelle draws inspiration from advice she once received from a former coach: “hard work beats talent when talent doesn’t work hard.” That message continues to guide how she approaches her career and life. She believes there is no substitute for hard work and consistently strives to give her best. She believes in leading through example and empowering others through her actions.

CUYLM participation:

Michelle’s service on the CUYLM Executive Committee from 2023 to 2025 was an important chapter in her leadership journey. Through this experience, she gained the confidence to lead, the opportunity to contribute to meaningful change, and a deeper appreciation for the credit union system as a whole. It broadened her perspective and reinforced her commitment to making a positive impact – both within her organization and beyond.

Registration is open for the 2026 CUYLM Conference, Rewired Leadership: Thriving Through Change and Connection, taking place April 23–24, 2026, at the Clarion Inn & Suites in Brandon, MB.

Designed for young leaders (40 & under) in Manitoba’s credit union system, this two‑day event features engaging keynote speakers Sandra McDowell, Jay Kiew, and Steve Fredlund, along with Paul Holden delivering a State of the Credit Union System address. Attendees will enjoy valuable learning, meaningful connections, and practical leadership insights.

Conference registration includes:

• Thursday evening networking event (7:00 PM)

• Professional headshots at no additional cost

• Meals and snacks both days, including Friday breakfast

🗓️ Registration closes Friday, April 10, 2026
🔗 Learn more and register here.

We look forward to seeing you there!

In March, we launched our 2026 CUYLM Mentorship Program, making 25 successful mentor–mentee pairings across the Manitoba credit union system.

This year’s program includes representation from 11 credit unions and system partners, including Access Credit Union, Assiniboine Credit Union, Belgian-Alliance Credit Union, Compass Credit Union, CUCM, CUYLM, Fusion Credit Union, Me-Dian Credit Union, Rosenort Credit Union, Steinbach Credit Union, and Stride Credit Union.

This collaborative initiative reflects the cooperative values at the heart of the credit union system and provides a meaningful opportunity to invest in young and emerging leaders. The CUYLM Mentorship Program continues to strengthen relationships across organizations while supporting leadership development and long-term system sustainability.

We look forward to another impactful year of learning, connection, and growth.

We’re proud to continue our province‑wide Member Service Excellence Spotlight, which recognizes outstanding service across all credit unions. It’s a chance to shine a light on your amazing colleagues!

One inspiring nominee per quarter will be selected to receive a gift card and be featured on CUYLM’s platforms (with their permission, of course!).

Nominate a teammate or share your own story of outstanding service in 2026 using the form below:

CUYLM's Member Service Excellence Spotlight - Nomination Form

Submissions for this quarter are now open and must be received by Tuesday, March 31, 2026.

Exceptional member experiences happen in every corner of our credit unions — not just at the front line.

You may have recently:

• Seen an employee provide thoughtful guidance on products or services

• Observed someone take extra time to educate a member about fraud prevention and financial safety

• Helped advocate for a member to receive a loan or deposit solution that truly fit their needs

• Watched colleagues collaborate behind the scenes to resolve a complex issue

• Noticed an individual go above and beyond to ensure a member felt supported and valued

Great service can come from any role, including member service, lending, IT, operations, contact centers, and leadership. If you’ve witnessed a moment that stands out, this is an opportunity to recognize the impact it made.

Zachary Kirkness

Member Service Representative Supervisor, Me-Dian Credit Union

Career:

Start in the credit union system: June 2025

Football was Zachary’s passion throughout high school, and it has remained an important part of his life ever since. He played in the junior football league in British Columbia for several years, returned to play in Winnipeg, and later transitioned into coaching.

Outside of football, he built a career in retail, working his way up to a store manager role.

In 2025, while seeking a career change, Zachary learned about an opportunity with Me-Dian Credit Union. He joined as a Member Service Representative (MSR), and through his dedication and growth in the role, advanced to the position of Supervisor.

A typical day:

On a typical day, Zachary provides support to members and answers their questions. He also serves as a go-to resource for MSRs, stepping in to provide clarification and hands-on support when needed. He enjoys helping both members and colleagues. He also completes various in‑branch responsibilities assigned to him to keep daily operations running smoothly.

Continuous learning and improvement:

Zachary isn’t afraid to ask questions, whether the task is big or small. He believes indulging your curiosity is a great way to learn, and he uses every opportunity to build his knowledge and grow his skills.

Keys to success:

Key to Zachary’s success is the strong support system around him. In his personal life, his family and girlfriend have played an important role, offering steady encouragement and care. In his professional life, his manager, the MSR team, and the broader Me‑Dian Credit Union staff have all contributed to his growth by being consistently helpful and supportive.

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders:

Zachary recommends The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey, a book he first encountered when he began working at Me‑Dian and chose to read on his own time. He finds it is an eye‑opening guide that encourages greater productivity, personal growth, and long‑term success.

Guiding principles:

Hard work beats talent. That’s a principle Zachary learned during his football career, and he carries it with him every day. Whether he’s at work or coaching on the field, he puts full effort into everything he does, and this dedication is the foundation of his success.

Credit Union Young Leaders of Manitoba (CUYLM) invites you to participate in our 2026 CUYLM Mentorship Program. 

The program facilitates formal mentorship relationships between credit union employees across Manitoba, pairing young/emerging leaders with mentors to share knowledge and experiences, develop leadership skills, and build connections. 

Are you a young/emerging leader in your credit union? Are you self-driven to engage in a mentoring relationship? Are you seeking mentorship as part of your career development journey? Then you are encouraged to apply to become a mentee. 

All mentors are experienced leaders within the Manitoba credit union system. 

Important Dates 

• Friday, February 27: Deadline for mentee applications 

• March to November: Mentorship Program period 

Apply Now 

Visit the Mentorship Program page for detailed information about the program and to submit your application.

Questions 

For questions about the Mentorship Program, please contact us.

Kelli Zeiler  

Manager of Talent, Learning and Development, Fusion Credit Union 

Career: 

Start in the credit union system: 2012 

In high school, Kelli wanted to become a teacher and even went to university for a semester before realizing this path wasn’t the right fit.  

Kelli began her career in the Manitoba credit union system in 2012, joining Dauphin Plains Credit Union as an Executive Assistant. In 2013, the credit union merged to form Catalyst Credit Union, and in 2017 she stepped into the role of Human Resource Manager.  

Following another merger in 2018, Catalyst became Fusion Credit Union, where Kelli has served as the Manager of Talent, Learning and Development ever since. She describes her career within the credit union system as the most fulfilling work she’s done, adding “You can definitely call me a lifer”. 

A typical day: 

Kelli says every day is truly different, and that variety is something she enjoys. Although she’s often juggling a range of responsibilities, her top priority is supporting employees whenever they need her. As Fusion’s change practitioner, she also plays an active role in high-priority organizational projects, which keeps her schedule full and her work engaging.   

Continuous learning and improvement: 

Kelli is dedicated to continuous growth, actively seeking out opportunities that both challenge and inspire her. By engaging in cross‑functional projects, she expands her skill set and gains a deeper understanding of the credit union as a whole. 

Keys to success: 

Kelli strives to continuously prove herself through her work, demonstrating persistence and commitment in everything she takes on. She focuses on building trust by being dependable, transparent, and results oriented. This approach has allowed her to earn credibility, strengthen relationships, and positively contribute to team and organizational success. 

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders: 

For young leaders, Kelli recommends resources that encourage reflection, build practical skills, and support continuous growth. She’s currently enjoying The Pivot Year by Brianna Wiest. She also highly recommends the eLeadership Academy, which offers a variety of leadership-focused courses that are both practical and engaging – making it an excellent resource for developing confidence, capability, and self-awarenessawareness as a leader. 

Guiding principles: 

The principles that guide Kelli are motivation, persistence, trust, and continuous learning. She believes trust is earned over time by being reliable, accountable, and open to collaboration. Above all, she values connection and community, and she’s driven to contribute to the success of others and the credit union system. 

CUYLM participation: 

Kelli served on the CUYLM Executive Committee from 2023 to 2025, an experience she says had a meaningful impact on her career progression. CUYLM gave her valuable opportunities to connect and collaborate with like‑minded individuals across the broader credit union system. She credits the program with helping her build confidence, expand her network, and develop relationships and experiences that played an important role in both her personal and professional growth. 

We’re thrilled to recognize Jonathan Caballero, Member Service Representative from Compass Credit Union as our Member Service Excellence Spotlight winner for Q4 2025!

About a year ago, Jonathan began his journey in the credit union system with a genuine curiosity about banking and finance after visiting the Compass branch in Brandon. Coming from a retail background and while taking English courses, he made the transition with determination and a strong desire to learn.

Today, he’s thriving as a Member Service Representative (MSR) and continues to invest in his growth by taking courses, such as lending, to better understand the credit union system. While he’s still discovering where his long-term path may lead, one thing is certain: he truly enjoys serving members.

He was nominated after a co-worker noticed a member was having issues with their online banking. After visiting the branch several times, he took the time to write out instructions for her so she would have better guidance. The member was sincerely appreciative of it, and it is just one of many times Jonathan puts members first.

He goes above and beyond every day, always putting himself in members’ shoes. He understands that not everyone’s situation is the same, and he does everything he can to support them with patience, empathy, and care.

For him, every member who walks into the branch deserves the same level of respect. He treats members like family, not like a number, building real connections and making sure they feel comfortable and valued.

His advice? Treat people the way you want to be treated. If someone comes in having a bad day, he makes it his goal to help turn it into a better one.

Ian Gould 

Manager, Retail Loan Administration, Access Credit Union 

Career: 

Start in the credit union system: 2012 

Ian never expected to build a career in finance. He had ambitions to study medicine, but a summer job at the local credit union in Lac du Bonnet, Manitoba changed everything.  

At 16, he joined Sunova Credit Union as a casual Member Services Representative. This opportunity quickly grew into a passion for helping people achieve their financial goals and showed him firsthand how credit unions strengthen the communities they serve. He discovered the skills he was developing – relationship building, problem‑solving, and leadership – were things he truly enjoyed.  

The position was originally meant to fulfill 40 hours of work experience for school credit, but he surpassed those hours with ease and was offered a permanent part-time role in the summer of 2012. He continued working with Sunova Credit Union throughout high school and into university while studying in Winnipeg. 

In 2015, when Sunova opened a new branch in the south end of Winnipeg, Ian transferred there as an Associate. Rather than finishing his university degree, he decided to fully immerse himself in gaining hands-on experience within the credit union. This decision accelerated his growth, leading him first into lending and later into the role of Supervisor, Member Service. 

In 2020, Ian embraced a new challenge by joining Access Credit Union as Manager, Retail Loan Administration. This role marked a significant step forward, requiring him to lead a large team through multiple mergers and oversee a department in which he had no prior technical background. The experience tested and strengthened his leadership capabilities and adaptability. 

Throughout his career, Ian has remained committed to continuous growth, investing in professional development and leadership training. These opportunities have deepened his expertise and prepared him to take on increasing levels of responsibility within the credit union system. 

A typical day: 

Ian says no two days look the same in his role. His work can range from supporting his team through challenges to engaging in strategic planning for long-term success. A significant part of his focus is on modernization – evaluating the credit union’s systems and identifying opportunities for process improvements and technology enhancements. He also spends time collaborating across departments to ensure alignment on initiatives that drive efficiency and enhance member experience. His work requires him to balance immediate operational demands with forward‑looking strategies that position the credit union for continued growth and innovation. 

Continuous learning and improvement: 

For Ian, continuous learning and improvement is a core part of leadership. He believes leading people is never a “check-the-box” exercise where completing a program means you’re done. It’s an ongoing process that evolves as teams, technology, and member expectations change. He approaches this with curiosity and a commitment to growth.  

Ian actively seeks out new skills, techniques, and tools that strengthen his ability to lead. This includes staying current with industry trends, participating in leadership development programs, and engaging with peer networks to exchange insights and best practices.  

His priority is ensuring his team feels supported, valued, and coached in ways that reflect their individual needs and aspirations. By embracing continuous learning, Ian adapts his leadership style to meet today’s challenges while positioning himself and his team for the opportunities ahead. 

Keys to success: 

Ian says the greatest contributors to his success have been adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning. This mindset has allowed him to navigate change effectively. 

Throughout his career, he has embraced new opportunities, even those outside his comfort zone, and treated them as catalysts for growth. One example was stepping into a leadership role in Retail Loan Administration without prior experience in the department, a challenge that required him to learn quickly, build relationships, and guide his team through significant change. 

He believes success is rooted in staying curious, welcoming new challenges, and investing in the development of both people and processes. 

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders: 

One resource Ian highly recommends for emerging leaders is Talk to Me Nice by Minda Harts – a helpful read for those who want to build trust within their teams and strengthen workplace relationships. The book introduces the concept of “trust languages”, helping leaders understand their own trust triggers and how to respond when trust is broken or not recognized. Ian believes these insights are invaluable for creating a culture of transparency and psychological safety, which are essential for effective leadership today. 

Guiding principles: 

The principles that guide Ian as a leader are authenticity and a deep commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion. For Ian, being authentic means showing up as his true self – transparent, consistent, and genuine in every interaction. He believes authenticity builds trust, and trust is the foundation of strong leadership and meaningful relationships. 
Equally important is fostering an environment where diversity is celebrated, equity is prioritized, and inclusion is non-negotiable. To Ian, this means creating spaces where every voice is heard, every perspective is valued, and every individual feels they belong. Leadership, he says, is not about uniformity, it’s about embracing differences and leveraging them to drive innovation and growth. 
These principles guide every decision Ian makes and every conversation he engages in. They remind him that leadership is not just about achieving results; it’s about empowering people, removing barriers, and ensuring that success is shared by everyone. 

CUYLM participation: 

Ian joined the CUYLM executive committee in 2024, stepping into the role of Vice Chair in 2025. In 2026, he enters the third year of his term as Chair. 

Ian says CUYLM has had a significant impact on his career progression by providing opportunities for leadership development, networking, and exposure to broader credit union system initiatives. Through CUYLM, he’s been able to strengthen his strategic thinking and collaboration skills – capabilities that have directly supported his ability to take on more complex responsibilities in his role.  

CUYLM has also connected him with leaders from across the country, allowing him to share experiential insights and learn from diverse perspectives. These opportunities extend well beyond provincial borders, giving him a national lens on leadership within the credit union system.  

Overall, Ian credits CUYLM with preparing him for future leadership opportunities and significantly expanding his professional network across Canada. 

Bradley McEachern

Chief Lending Officer, Rosenort Credit Union

Career:

Start in the credit union system: 2010

Bradley wasn’t sure what direction to take after high school. He decided to pursue a Business Administration diploma at Red River College, but his career path remained uncertain – until 2010, when he was offered a position as a Member Service Representative at Access Credit Union in Morris Manitoba.

Bradley recalls being quite shy in those early days, but was fortunate to be taken under the wing of an incredible group of women who mentored him and helped build his confidence. This experience gave him a deep appreciation for supportive team cultures.

Bradley later advanced into an Account Manager role, and in 2013, transitioned to Rosenort Credit Union. He spent several years as an Account Manager before being promoted to Loans Manager in 2017.

Today, Bradley is the Chief Lending Officer at Rosenort Credit Union, responsible for overseeing all lending operations. His journey has taken him from learning the basics at the counter to managing the strategic lending direction of the organization.

Bradley is a firm believer that the cooperative system is a great place to build a career, and fifteen years later, he is grateful for the opportunity that first set him on this path.

A typical day:

While every day looks a little different, Bradley’s team is always an important priority. He makes a point to stay connected with them daily – whether providing guidance on complex lending decisions or simply checking in on them personally.

In addition, a large portion of his time is dedicated to governance, including preparing board reports and collaborating with regulators and auditors.

Equally central to Bradley’s role is maintaining strong connections with the credit union’s membership and ensuring member needs are met. “At the end of the day, everything we do is about serving them,” Bradley says.

Continuous learning and improvement:

Bradley lives by the philosophy that growth only happens when you step out of your comfort zone, so he always has a “reach goal” on his calendar.

Professionally, he is currently enrolled in the Cooperative Management program at St. Mary’s University to deepen his technical understanding of the industry.

He also challenges himself personally to avoid stagnation. Last year, he signed up for his first triathlon despite not knowing how to swim – spending the winter in lessons to prepare. He also joined a “Dads Dance Group”, learning a choreographed routine to a Will Smith mashup and performing in front of 800 people. For Bradley, the willingness to be a beginner and to learn something new directly informs his approach to leadership.

Keys to success:

Bradley attributes his success to the fact that he’s always been part of a strong team. Growing up, he played competitive hockey and baseball, and being in leadership roles on those teams taught him early on that you cannot win alone.

He’s been fortunate to have incredible coaches who modeled what good leadership looks like, and a supportive wife who encourages him to take on new challenges. Having that strong support system – both professionally and personally – gives him the confidence to push himself and lead others effectively.

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders:

Bradley cites Planet Money and Freakonomics as his go-to podcasts – engaging resources that not only entertain but also offer a compelling look at how the global economy shapes everyday life and decision-making.

Closer to home, he enjoys The Wealthy Barber with David Chilton, where guests provide valuable insight into the Canadian financial landscape. For Bradley, listening to these podcasts is a way to stay current while reinforcing his belief that finance is ultimately about people, not just numbers.

Guiding principles:

• Servant leadership – Supporting others, not commanding them.

• Courageous vulnerability – Bradley is willing to be a beginner.

• Collective success – The team is stronger than the individual.

• Disciplined preparation – Set goals and achieve them

CUYLM participation:

Bradley served on the CUYLM Executive Committee from 2018 to 2020, an experience he says had a huge impact on him. Through his involvement, he had opportunities to connect with many great leaders and passionate cooperators across the credit union system.

We’re thrilled to recognize Daniela Damm, Member Service Representative from Access Credit Union as our Member Service Excellence Spotlight winner for Q3!

After 15 years in the dental industry, Daniela decided to take a leap and completely change careers. During her daily commute from St. Malo to Winnipeg, she spotted a job posting and thought, why not try something new?

One year later, Daniela says working in the credit union system is so much more than she imagined. She loves connecting with members, investigating unique situations, and building relationships. Every day brings something different, and the team at Access Grunthal branch has been phenomenal.

What drives Daniela to go above and beyond? Members. She is passionate about understanding their perspectives, helping them through challenges, and making their experience exceptional. She turns moments of waiting—like when technology is catching up—into opportunities to build and strengthen relationships.

Her dedication earned her a Member Service Excellence Spotlight nomination from her supervisor.

During a routine interaction, Daniela’s sharp attention to detail led her to notice something unusual. Taking the initiative to investigate, she uncovered that a member had been targeted by a scammer. Thanks to her diligence and sound judgement, her credit union was able to act swiftly to protect the member. Her efforts in going above and beyond for the member did not go unnoticed and is just one of many examples of Daniela’s dedication to delivering A+ service.

When asked what being part of a co-operative means to her, Daniela shared:

“Being part of a co-operative for the first time has been eye-opening. Moving from a privately-owned dental office to a member-driven organization has taught me so much about collaboration and community. Even though Access is a large company, this branch feels like family.”

Her advice: Give members your heart. See things from their perspective and go beyond the transaction. We’ve all been in their shoes—be the person who makes a difference.

Congratulations, Daniela, for being selected for the Member Service Excellence Spotlight in Q3!

We are currently accepting nominations for Q4! Nominate your colleagues before Wednesday, December 31!

Member Service Excellence Spotlight - Q4 Nominations Open Now! — CUYLM

Hart Garfield 

Corporate Account Manager, Assiniboine Credit Union 

Career: 

Start in the credit union system: 2014 

In high school, Hart was drawn toward two very different career paths: one working with numbers, and the other as General Manager of the Winnipeg Blue Bombers. Today, his professional journey has taken him down the numerical route, and he couldn’t be happier with how things turned out. Rather than managing a football team, Hart now manages a portfolio of commercial members. His role allows him to problem-solve, deliver tailored services, and offer advice to help his members achieve their goals and aspirations. 

While Hart was studying in school, he worked part-time as a teller at a credit union. After graduating, he received an opportunity as an underwriter in the Business Financial Centre at Assiniboine Credit Union. After three years in that role, he started as a Commercial Credit Adjudicator, where he reviewed and approved commercial loan applications. Afterward, he re-joined the underwriter team, this time as the Senior Underwriter. This led to his current role as an Account Manager.  

Hart has spent three and a half years as an Account Manager, first Senior and now Corporate. He says every role he’s held helped him develop and grow his skillset in different ways, and he is truly grateful for each role he’s taken on.  

A typical day: 

As a Corporate Account Manager, Hart says every day is a little different. Most days involve member contact – either through emails, phone calls or in-person meetings – to handle requests, solve problems or check in. Hart maintains close relationships with all his members, staying informed about their evolving business needs. This ongoing connection helps him ensure he and his credit union deliver the right support and resources to help them succeed. 

This regular contact often leads to new loan applications. Hart has full ownership of his portfolio and applications, from structuring to underwriting and approving advances or funding, however both the underwriter and loan administration teams play a vital role in this process. Hart manages both the loan and deposit accounts of his portfolio, and it’s his job to grow both. This involves expanding existing relationships and finding new connections. As such, Hart attends many network events and business functions. Hart also conducts regular site visits, given that many of the loans he manages are tied to commercial real estate. These visits span both completed developments and active construction projects. Hart meets with members to monitor progress and the status of security.  

Lastly, in his role as a Corporate Account Manager, Hart plays a key role in overseeing the credit union’s syndication loans. This involves collaborating with financial institutions across Canada to foster strong relationships and contribute to the growth of the portfolio. At the heart of it all is his unwavering focus on members – every aspect of his work is driven by their needs, goals, and success. 

Continuous learning and improvement: 

For Hart, continuous learning and improvement starts with constantly asking questions. He makes a point to dig deeper into the “why” behind things, as this helps him see the bigger picture and avoid repeating mistakes. Additionally, he always takes time to reflect on his experiences and his skillsets, considering what worked well, what could be better next time, and what skills he can continue to develop. Hart says this cycle of questioning, exploring, and reflecting keeps him moving forward and becoming the best version of himself. 

Keys to success: 

Hart says the biggest contributing factors to his success have been hard work and willingness to learn. His strong work ethic was instilled in him by his parents, and he’s noticed these efforts help him stand out and succeed in his career. Additionally, his eagerness to learn – whether by enrolling in courses or volunteering for committees and task forces – has allowed him to broaden his skillset and demonstrate his strength as a team player. 

Recommended reading (or other resources) for young leaders: 

Hart names Good to Great by Jim Collins as his favorite leadership book – a recommendation from his mentor back in 2021 that continues to resonate with him today. He also suggests Start with Why by Simon Sinek and Turn the Ship Around by David Marquet. 

Guiding principles: 

Hart’s guiding principles center around honesty and transparency. He believes that clear, truthful communication is the foundation of trust in any relationship. In every action and interaction, he strives to be genuine, staying true to himself no matter the circumstance. Naturally hardworking, Hart approaches each task with a strong sense of responsibility and a commitment to doing his best, confident that consistent effort leads to meaningful results. Above all, he leads with kindness, treating others with respect in every situation. These values not only define his professional approach but also reflect how he aims to live his personal life. 

CUYLM participation: 

Hart served as a member of the CUYLM Executive Committee from 2021 to 2023. He says CUYLM had a huge impact on his career progression by significantly enhancing his leadership skills and providing numerous opportunities to collaborate on projects and work in team settings. He says it consistently challenged him to step outside of his comfort zone, which accelerated both his personal and professional growth. Through his involvement, Hart was able to build meaningful connections, not only with CUYLM executives but also with others across the wider credit union system. He says this was instrumental in expanding his network and broadening his perspective within the system. 

Credit Union Young Leaders of Manitoba is building on the United Nations’ designation of 2025 as the International Year of Cooperatives by inviting our credit union colleagues to show the world what A+ service looks like.

We’re proud to continue our province‑wide Member Service Excellence Spotlight, which recognizes outstanding service across all credit unions. It’s a chance to shine a light on your amazing colleagues!

Nominate a teammate or share your own story of outstanding service in 2025 using the form below:

CUYLM's Member Service Excellence Spotlight - Nomination Form

Each quarter, one inspiring nominee will be selected to receive a gift card and be featured on CUYLM’s platforms (with their permission, of course!).

Stay tuned for an announcement about our Q3 winner!

If you nominated someone last quarter but your nomination was not selected, we encourage you to nominate them again!

Q4 nomination deadline: Wednesday, December 31, 2025.

Executive Committee Recruitment

We’re excited to share that we are currently recruiting for positions on the CUYLM Executive Committee to serve 3-year terms starting January 2026. Applications will be accepted until Friday, November 14. Visit this page to learn about the benefits of serving on the committee, eligibility requirements, and apply today!

Mentorship Program

We’re also pleased to share that our Mentorship Program has been successfully running since the beginning of the year and will conclude on November 5. During the year, mentors and mentees have been meeting and learning valuable leadership skills. Stay tuned for our year-end recap!

2025 Inclusive Leadership in Action workshop

Growing Together: Young Leaders Explore Inclusive Leadership in Action

On September 25, 2025, emerging leaders from credit unions across Manitoba came together for CUYLM’s impactful workshop on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) coaching and leadership skills.

The in-person session, Inclusive Leadership in Action, was led by Phyllis Reid-Jarvis, MPH, CPC, DISM Certified, a respected leadership coach known for her work in intentional and inclusive leadership. Phyllis created a thoughtful and safe environment for participants to engage in meaningful conversations about bias, belonging, and the power of inclusive practices.

Participants explored topics such as the Invisible Caste System and its influence on workplace dynamics, learned practical EDI tools for effective coaching, and developed strategies to create safe spaces for dialogue. The session also encouraged personal reflection on empathy, self-awareness, and emotional intelligence – essential skills for anyone striving to lead with authenticity and compassion.

“Phyllis gave us the confidence to lean into these sensitive conversations with more understanding and compassion,” one attendee shared. “It was a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t just about professional growth –  it’s about empathy, awareness, and the courage to face uncomfortable truths.”

Workshops like this bring young leaders from across the province together to learn, connect and grow.  They also highlight the credit union system’s shared commitment to leadership development and inclusive practices – strengthening our cooperative values and shaping a more equitable future for all.

A very special thank-you to CUMIS for generously sponsoring the event and supporting the development of emerging credit union leaders across Manitoba.

KAIROS Blanket Exercise

On September 26, 2025, the CUYLM executive committee, alongside members of CUMAM, gathered at the Indigenous Family Centre in Winnipeg for a powerful and eye-opening experience: the KAIROS Blanket Exercise.

This immersive workshop, hosted by the Indigenous Family Centre Executive Director, Shannon Perez, offered participants a unique opportunity to explore the shared history of Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples in Canada. Through storytelling and guided reflection, the KAIROS Blanket Exercise traced the impacts of colonization – from treaty-making and land displacement to the legacy of residential schools and ongoing systemic inequities. Participants stood on blankets representing the land, which were gradually removed to symbolize the loss of territory and rights. As facilitators narrated historical events and invited participants to embody different roles, the exercise fostered a deeper emotional and intellectual understanding of the lived experiences of Indigenous communities.

This visit underscored CUYLM’s dedication to reconciliation and community engagement, aligning with cooperative values of respect, equity, and social responsibility.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Indigenous Family Centre for welcoming us into their space and guiding us through such a meaningful journey. Experiences like these remind us that leadership is not only about vision and strategy – it’s about humility, understanding, and walking together.

Learn more about the Indigenous Family Centre and the KAIROS Blanket Exercise here: https://www.indigenousfamilycentre.com/the-blanket-exercise