CU Difference hosted representatives from African credit unions in Madison, Wis., in late July to share ideas and gain exposure to the U.S. credit union system.

Among the African nations represented were Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Uganda, Ghana, and Tanzania.

CU Difference is an organization formed by Lois Kitsch and Mark Lynch, both formerly of the National Credit Union Foundation, to help credit unions and related organizations improve peoples’ lives.

Cybersecurity, attracting younger members and leaders, diversity and inclusion, experiential learning, best practices, and compliance were among the issues addressed during the visit.

“An underlying theme throughout the event, which was brought out in a young professional discussion, was the increased role of women in the African credit union movement,” Lynch says.

CUNA, the Wisconsin Credit Union League, and CUNA Mutual Group also took part in the event.

The group visited CUNA and CUNA Mutual Group headquarters, Filene Research Group headquarters, Summit Credit Union, Wisconsin Credit Union House, and River Food Pantry.

CUNA Engagement Consultant Christopher Morris addressed the group, discussing advocacy, credit union service organizations, financial education, credit union chapters, CUNA Councils, prize-linked saving, and the Credit Union Awareness Initiative.