Women Empowering Women in Africa and Asia

Below is a note that we recently received from Josephine, a credit union manager from Uganda, who took part in our 2017 Women's Mentorship Program.  Josephine was paired with Servus Credit Union, based in Alberta, Canada.

I would like to take this opportunity and thank the organisers and the supporters of this program. What an experience to an African woman in leadership!

All our Coaches and Trainers had a wealth of knowledge which they so willingly shared. Their life experiences were motivating as they are similar to life back home. They give us a reason to carry on. 

The family of Servus Credit Union right from the President & CEO who shared with me some of his success values like hardwork & persistence, being ready for opportunities, being pro-active, learning to forgive oneself, willing to learn, family values (recognising the spouse's contribution) and key factors in lending which are character and capacity. These insights could not come at a better time. Thank you very much.

To the Director of Corporate Social Responsibility - thank you for sharing that as Cooperatives, we should always answer the "why?" question. Unless we know why we are here (to serve humanity and change lives to a better living), then our existence has little or no use.

To the Morniville branch manager - thank you for sharing your cooperative experiences while in Ghana. Coming from another African country, it made sense as we operate almost in a similar environment.

My host and coach & your family - thank you soooo much. You ensured that I was comfortable and my learning program addressed my needs. Not forgetting staff at your branch. They made my learning a joy as they were willing to share.

To the Westlock branch manager - thank you for organising my visit to your sister's family farm. Riding in a combine harvester for the first time and seeing how it "harvested" wheat was another lesson altogether.   As my family engages in farming, visiting this farm was enriching in that I learnt best practices (mechanisation) practically and how this contributes to yield maximisation as compared to how much time we invest and human labour. Not forgetting your company to Jasper National Park. I’m indebted to you.

The knowledge I have acquired is going to be a great resource to Lubaga North Sacco. Our story is going to change especially in the areas of governance, savings mobilisation, member recruitment & retaining and much more.

Personally, I have been empowered to be the best I can be, embrace change, be open to ideas and always yearn for more. I’m confident that I will serve my cooperative, community and family in a better way. Thank you CCA. Thank you Servus family.  Thank you donors.

Josephine

Manager- Lubaga North Sacco