Transforming Perspectives: Reflections from the ACCU Development Education Course

The Australian Mutuals Foundation is proud to support emerging leaders from across the mutual banking sector to attend the ACCU Development Education (DE) Course, an experience often described as nothing short of transformative.

This year, three Australian delegates, Eva Tahtouh (Australian Mutual Bank), Tegan Edmonds (Regional Australia Bank), and Mira Palomaki (Customer Owned Banking Association) were joined by fellow participant Michael Kiele from Papua New Guinea, alongside peers from around the world at the 41st DE workshop in Bangkok. Together, they explored the global cooperative movement, strengthened their leadership capabilities, and deepened their understanding of mutuality in action.

While each participant brought their own motivations and perspectives, a shared purpose quickly emerged: a genuine belief in the power of mutual banking to create positive, lasting impact.

A shared purpose, a global perspective

For many, the motivation to attend the DE Course stemmed from a desire to better understand the global cooperative movement and the role mutuals play within it.

Tegan Edmonds was driven by her passion for mutual banking and “the good that money can do,” hoping to challenge herself beyond her comfort zone while strengthening her leadership and communication skills.

Similarly, Mira Palomaki was eager to gain a deeper understanding of the shared challenges and opportunities across the global mutual banking landscape, encouraged by colleagues who had previously experienced the program.

This global lens proved to be one of the most impactful aspects of the course. Participants were exposed not only to Thai culture through their time in Bangkok, but also to the diverse lived experiences of fellow attendees. Through open discussions and shared stories, they gained insight into the vastly different regulatory, economic, and social environments in which credit unions operate.

For Mira Palomaki, these contrasts were particularly striking. Learning about both highly regulated environments like Australia and under-regulated systems in other countries highlighted a complex reality yet reinforced a simple truth: regardless of context, cooperative principles remain a powerful guide.

This global perspective was further strengthened through insights from Michael Kiele, whose experience in Papua New Guinea highlighted the critical role mutuals play in supporting communities where access to traditional banking services can be limited. His contributions reinforced the importance of adaptability within the cooperative model, and the need to meet members where they are regardless of geography or economic environment.

Moments that matter

From powerful classroom sessions to informal evening conversations, the DE experience is filled with moments that leave a lasting impression.

Tegan Edmonds reflected on the cultural immersion and the connections formed throughout the program as standout highlights. “Watching strangers come together, connect, laugh, and bond over their shared purpose of serving their communities was inspiring,” she said.

Structured sessions also played a key role in shaping participants’ perspectives. Workshops such as High Road Leadership, Future Ready Leadership, and Find Your Purpose challenged attendees to reflect deeply on their values, leadership styles, and the impact they want to have both professionally and personally.

For Mira Palomaki, the Find Your Purpose session was particularly powerful, resonating deeply with the entire cohort and creating a shared sense of reflection and clarity.

The final day presentations where each participant delivered a short speech were another highlight. After a week of learning and connection, these presentations showcased not only personal growth, but also the passion and purpose that underpin the mutual sector.

Participants brought unique perspectives shaped by their local communities, making each presentation not only a reflection of personal growth, but also a powerful reminder of the diverse ways mutuals create impact around the world.

Growth through challenge

While the DE course is widely celebrated, it is also intentionally challenging. For Tegan Edmonds, the most significant challenge came in the form of public speaking particularly when asked to step outside familiar topics and embrace vulnerability. With the support of mentors and fellow participants, she was able to build confidence and navigate this discomfort, ultimately strengthening her ability to communicate authentically.

This theme of growth through vulnerability was echoed across the cohort. Participants were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, reflect honestly, and support one anotherm creating an environment of trust and shared learning.

Lasting impact

Participants spoke of a renewed understanding of what it truly means to be a mutual, recognising that their role extends far beyond financial services to enriching lives, supporting communities, and creating meaningful change.

For Tegan Edmonds, the experience reinforced the importance of empathy, authenticity, and human-centred leadership. “It has reminded me to always lead with empathy, creating a positive ripple effect across our members and communities,” she shared.

Mira Palomaki highlighted the value of learning directly from peers, gaining insights into global challenges while recognising the unifying strength of cooperative principles.

For Michael Kiele, the experience further reinforced the value of connection and shared learning across borders, demonstrating that while the challenges facing communities may differ, the principles underpinning mutuals remain universally relevant.

Above all, the experience was described as deeply personal and uniquely transformative.

As Mira Palomaki noted, “Each participant walks away with a different, deeply personal insight.” And for Tegan Edmonds, the sentiment was simple but powerful: “When the DE program is described as transformative, that is absolutely accurate.”.

Looking ahead

The Australian Mutuals Foundation remains committed to supporting the development of future leaders within the mutual sector.

Programs like the ACCU Development Education Course not only strengthen individual capability, but also reinforce the shared values that define mutual banking: collaboration, purpose, and a commitment to community.

For those considering applying in the future, the message from this year’s participants is clear: embrace the opportunity. It may challenge you but it will also change you. Applications are now open for 2026 ACCU Development Education programs.

To find out more or to apply, please contact the Australian Mutuals Foundation at

info@australianmf.org.