One of the things I enjoy most about this role is the opportunity to listen.

Over the past few months, I’ve had the chance to spend time with members and partners across British Columbia, and in June I attended Co-operatives and Mutuals Canada’s annual conference, where I connected with people from co-operatives across the country. Whether the conversation happens between conference sessions, in a boardroom, over coffee, or virtually, I almost always come away with a new perspective.

One thing that stood out to me was how much we have in common. While every co-operative and every community is unique, many of us are asking similar questions. How do we develop the next generation of leaders? How do we build resilient organizations? How do we create stronger communities? Most importantly, how can we learn from one another instead of trying to solve these challenges on our own?

What gives me optimism is the openness I continue to see. People are remarkably generous with their ideas, their experiences, and their willingness to help. Every conversation reminds me that one of the greatest strengths of the co-operative movement is not simply that we work differently. It’s that we genuinely believe we are stronger when we work together.

As we prepare for our conference, Further Together, this September, that spirit has been front of mind. Our goal is to create opportunities for meaningful conversations, practical learning, and new connections that continue long after the conference ends. I hope participants leave not only with new ideas, but with new relationships they can draw on for years to come.

Thank you for being part of BCCA and for the role you play in strengthening co-operation across British Columbia. I hope you enjoy this edition of the newsletter, and I look forward to connecting with many of you in the months ahead.