Level Up Your Leadership with GoWest’s 2025 Young Professional Programs

Posted by Britt Bonanzino on April 8, 2025

Young professionals — this is your moment.

The Credit Union Movement is evolving, and it needs bold, passionate leaders like you to shape what’s next. Whether you’re ready to take center stage at the largest gathering of credit unions in the West, or you’re looking to connect and grow with peers in a high-energy, immersive setting, GoWest has two incredible YP programs designed just for you.

Introducing: Your 2025 Leadership Lineup

YP Leads — Oct. 13-16 | Portland, Oregon 

Are you ready to represent the next generation of CU leadership?

GoWest’s YP Leads program selects 18 rising stars from across our six-state region to attend MAXX 2025 and participate in a yearlong mentorship and advocacy journey that amplifies your leadership impact.

As a YP Lead, you’ll

• Join a cohort of emerging changemakers
• Receive complimentary registration to MAXX 2025 in Portland, Oct. 13-16
• Get matched with an experienced credit union mentor
• Learn how to advocate for the CU Movement
• Elevate your voice, your career, and your place in the Credit Union Movement

Deadline to Apply: June 20

Apply for YP Leads

YP Summit — June 3-4 | Boise, Idaho

Sometimes, leveling up starts with showing up.

At the YP Summit, you’ll join a vibrant community of young credit union professionals for two days of insight, connection, and inspiration. Hosted at Boise’s JUMP Center, the experience is equal parts leadership lab and networking hub.

Past attendees call the event “re-energizing,” “an amazing experience,” and “the spark they didn’t know they needed.” With sessions that explore innovation, leadership, and collaboration, YP Summit is a space to grow your network and your confidence.

Expect to:

• Expand your confidence and leadership toolkit
• Connect with peers and pros from across the region
• Gain insights to energize your CU journey
• Leave motivated, connected, and ready to lead

Register for YP Summit

There’s something powerful about finding your people — especially when they’re fellow dreamers, doers, and advocates who believe in the Credit Union Difference.

That’s the energy behind GoWest’s 2025 YP programs. Whether you’re brand new to the Movement or already taking steps toward leadership, YP Leads and YP Summit are two powerful opportunities to step further into your impact.

“Credit union advocacy is a VIBE! The difference we get to make by sharing our foundation of People Helping People makes such an impact. My passion for young professionals in our industry stems from them being our brilliant future. I wish someone 16 years ago as I embarked on my career, tapped me on the shoulder and said ‘Hey try it — you might like it.’ Little did I know the collaboration between credit unions — we all have the same last name after all — would fuel me beyond what I imagined. It’s exciting to be around like-minded folks all passionate about showing up and serving their members. They sharpen me. There is so much opportunity to further your knowledge, build your brand, and leave an impactful legacy. Get curious!” —Nelea Lem, iQ Credit Union

This is your leadership era.

Have questions or want to talk through what’s right for you? Reach out to Lexy Strong, Manager of CU Communities.

Posted in MAXX, Top Headlines, Young Professionals.