About Global Women’s Leadership Network
GWLN aims to provide women with the opportunity and resources to make a measurable difference In the lives of each other, In the lives of credit union members and In their communities. With a Sister Society presence in 86 countries, The Kansas-Missouri Sister Society joins a group of 4,500 individuals from all walks of life, expertise and professional standing.
About the Kansas-Missouri Sister Society
Starting a Kansas-Missouri Sister Society was the idea of Nicole El-Chami, AVP of electronic services at Credit Union of America (Wichita, KS). In 2021, Nicole, along with a group of women credit union leaders, approached HCUA about creating a local chapter.
“I saw the power of the Global Women’s Leadership Network, and the impact it had on local regions,” said Nicole. “Bringing that inspiration and collaboration to Kansas and Missouri credit union professionals will empower us individually and present opportunities for us to lift each other up.”
Today, the Kansas-Missouri Sister Society is led by a committee of 10 leaders from Kansas and Missouri credit unions and two HCUA staff liaisons. The mission is to inspire women to lead through professional development, mentorship, and networking.
“When Nicole contacted us about starting a Sister Society, we hit the ground running,” says Andrea Robinson Fuentes, executive director of external affairs and philanthropy for HCUA and one of the staff liaisons. “I was so proud to see how many of our credit unions embraced the Sister Society. The committee is amazing, and we have a great year planned with more events.”
In addition to the April 5 launch party, this local chapter will host three more events throughout 2022 focused on whole-person wellness and resilience.