LANGLEY, B.C. — Sam Varing, Senior Legal Counsel at Tru Cooperative Bank, has been named the national winner of the Canadian Credit Union Association’s (CCUA) National Young Leaders Award.
Each year, CCUA selects emerging leaders from across Canada who are making meaningful contributions to the credit union system and their communities. This year, six young leaders were recognized with the award and invited to attend the 2026 CCUA Conference in Ottawa, where they presented to a panel of judges and conference attendees for the opportunity to be selected for a $10,000 scholarship. Varing was ultimately selected as the top recipient in recognition of her demonstrated leadership at Tru Cooperative Bank, her commitment to cooperative values, and her sustained community involvement in the Fraser Valley.
“It’s an honour to be recognized alongside other young leaders from across Canada who are committed to strengthening the credit union system,” says Varing. “This recognition reflects the power of cooperative leadership — connecting people, purpose, and community to create lasting impact.”
In her role at Tru Cooperative Bank, Varing provides strategic legal advice on complex, organization‑wide initiatives, ensuring that innovation and modernization remain aligned with member needs and cooperative values. She is known internally as a trusted partner who supports thoughtful decision‑making and collaboration across teams.
Varing’s leadership extends well beyond her professional role. She currently serves as President of the Abbotsford Chamber of Commerce. She is also the founder and past Chair of the Company of Young Professionals and Entrepreneurs (CYPE), a chamber‑based initiative that has become a cornerstone program for mentorship, leadership development, and community connection for emerging professionals across the Fraser Valley.
“Sam shows how our work begins and belongs in the community,” says Launi Skinner, CEO at Tru Cooperative Bank. “When there’s a volunteer need, she’s the first hand raised, and when colleagues seek mentorship, she always makes time. Sam represents the future of leadership in the Canadian credit union system, and I’m proud to see her recognized nationally for the impact she’s making within our organization and the communities we serve.”
As a National Young Leaders Award recipient, Varing will participate in CCUA’s National Young Leaders Committee, contributing her expertise and perspective to initiatives that support collaboration and innovation across the Canadian credit union system.
To learn more about the CCUA National Young Leaders Award, visit:
https://ccua.com/news/national-young-leaders-award-nominations-close-on-february-28/