Krista Funes: Co-ops In Schools (CIS) Student Report

| Education, Youth |
Krista Funes
Krista Funes

Co-ops in Schools (CIS) is a province-wide initiative that the BCCA runs annually to increases youth awareness of the co-operative model and sector. This professional mentorship program provides students with the opportunity to learn from mentors who champion and work directly with the co-op model. It fosters the development of productive, ongoing relationships between youth and the sector.

Krista Funes was a student and mentor in our inaugural 2015-16 CIS cohort. Currently an Environmental Sustainability Specialist at Vancity Credit Union, Krista shares her experience with the CIS program.

 

I was a mentor and student in the inaugural year of the Co-ops in Schools (CIS) program while completing BCIT’s Sustainable Business Leadership program. I worked closely with the CIS Program Manager to design and deliver the program to high school students, and in the process gained valuable skills in project management, public speaking and facilitation, and coaching. I was paired up with a mentor from Vancity, who took note of my passion for the co-operative business model and sustainability and referred me to Vancity’s internship program. As one of the successful applicants, and I would say that my experience in the Co-ops in Schools program gave me an added advantage in the interview process.

– Krista Funes

Today, Krista work as an Environmental Sustainability Specialist in Vancity’s Community Business and Investment department where she leads the organizational priority of ‘Lighter Living’ which encourages us all to consume less, waste less, live more and share more.

 

Interested in joining the CIS program as a mentor, student, or supporter? Email us at general@bcca.coop to discuss how we can collaborate!