2004 International Credit Union Leadership Institute Opens

Nassau, Bahamas-The 7th International Leadership Institute opened this evening with an attendee flag ceremony. The Royal Bahamas Police Force Band led the World Council of Credit Unions, Caribbean Confederation of Credit Unions, and Bahamas Credit Union League board of directors into the assembly. Bahamas Co-operative League president Calnan Weech acted as the Master of Ceremonies, officially welcoming the audience to the Bahamas. L.R. (Bobby) McVeigh, WOCCU board chairman, greeted the audience of 1,018 credit union leaders from 37 countries around the world.

McVeigh identified key performances, to which credit unions hold a higher standard. He explained, "You have to put members first, no matter what challenges stand in the way. Make an effort to see the world through their eyes, so as to continue to improve the programs and services we offer. We also must work harder each year and find new ways to improve the lives of members everywhere." Click to view full remarks

The evening concluded with a Junkanoo performance (Bahamian Mardi Gras) that allowed participants to follow in a line to the reception. The International Credit Union Leadership Conference general assembly, break out sessions and workshops begin on August 2.

World Council of Credit Unions is the global trade association and development agency for credit unions. World Council promotes the sustainable development of credit unions and other financial cooperatives around the world to empower people through access to high quality and affordable financial services. World Council advocates on behalf of the global credit union system before international organizations and works with national governments to improve legislation and regulation. Its technical assistance programs introduce new tools and technologies to strengthen credit unions' financial performance and increase their outreach.

World Council has implemented more than 290 technical assistance programs in 71 countries. Worldwide, 51,000 credit unions in 100 countries serve 196 million people. Learn more about World Council's impact around the world at www.woccu.org.