CU Foundation Stronger Than Ever at ABCUL Annual Conference 2025

Thursday 20 March 2025

The Credit Union Foundation has never been stronger, a fact celebrated in grand style at the ABCUL Annual Conference 2025. The event, held at The Queens Hotel in Leeds, culminated in the traditional Credit Union Foundation celebration on Saturday evening, marking the graduation of the CU Futures Class of 2025.

Since its inception in 2016, CU Futures has played a crucial role in nurturing the next generation of credit union leaders. To date, the programme has supported 91 graduates from 43 credit unions across England, Scotland, and Wales. The Queens Hotel Ballroom provided the perfect setting to honour this year’s outstanding graduates:

• Isaac Bickerstaffe – First Rate Credit Union
• Johny Bosco – London Capital Credit Union
• Cady Collinge – Pennine Community Credit Union
• Dylan Jolly – Beacon Savings & Loans
• Oliwia Kuczynska – 1st Class Credit Union
• Sarah Laing – Commsave Credit Union
• Mariyam Lalan – Clockwise Credit Union
• Samantha Owen – Unify Credit Union Ltd

ABCUL’s Programme Manager, Jake Hatch, praised the initiative, stating: “This programme, which has played a vital role in developing the next generation of credit union leaders, was made possible thanks to the generosity of member credit unions and stakeholders who donated and supported the initiative. Their contributions ensure that young professionals continue to receive the mentorship, training, and development opportunities they need to succeed in the sector. ABCUL extends its sincere gratitude to everyone who has championed this programme over the years.”

This year’s event also marked an extraordinary milestone in securing long-term funding for the Credit Union Foundation. In a landmark announcement, Peach State Federal Credit Union pledged a further year’s funding of $25,000, while The League of Credit Unions and Affiliates also generously donated $25,000. Additionally, ABCUL member credit unions came together to contribute an impressive £28,000. These generous contributions bring the total donations for CU Futures to £78,000 ensuring the programme’s sustainability and growth for years to come.

Jake added: “The Credit Union Foundation’s continued strength is a testament to the unwavering support of the credit union movement and its commitment to fostering the leaders of tomorrow. With such robust backing, CU Futures will remain a beacon of opportunity for young professionals across the sector, equipping them with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to drive the movement forward.”