Professionals to Know in Westman | 2026

WESTMAN THIS WEEK

n THE BRANDON SUN THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2026

MEET THE FACES OF STRIDE CREDIT UNION CARBERRY We’re Now Open in Carberry! Stride Credit Union is excited to now call Carberry home! Our new branch is officially open at 10 Main Street, bringing local financial advice, everyday banking and a team ready to help right to the heart of the community. Meet the team behind our new Carberry branch and get to know some of the faces you’ll see when you stop by! Ryan Youles Samantha Smith

Financial Experience Officer ryan.youles@stridecu.ca

Manager, Business Processes

“Born and raised on a farm just outside of Neepawa, I have seen firsthand the benefits a local credit union can bring to the community. What I value most about working at Stride, is the ability to help neighbours build and grow - because when our members thrive, our entire community does.” samantha.smith@stridecu.ca

“There’s something special about a place where people know their neighbours, take pride in their community, and value the history that shaped it. The strong sense of connection here is something you don’t find everywhere, and it’s exactly why I’m excited to be part of it.”

Kristin Desrochers kristin.desrochers@stridecu.ca Member Experience Associate

BJ Birch Account Manager

“I grew up in Neepawa, where the rink and ball diamond weren’t just places I played— they shaped who I am. Having spent over 50 years in the Westman region, I’ve built deep roots and meaningful connections throughout the area and look forward to continuing this in Carberry.” bj.birch@stridecu.ca

“Growing up in Carberry, I’ve spent my life surrounded by a community that values connection, growth, and shared history. Carberry isn’t just where I’m from—it’s what inspires how I show up every day: ready to help, connect, and make a difference.”

Jasmine Giesbrecht Member Experience Associate jasmine.giesbrecht@stridecu.ca

michelle.vanOeveren@stridecu.ca Michelle van Oeveren Member Experience Supervisor

“At Stride, every day brings something new. I enjoy getting to know our members on a personal level, understanding their needs, and continuing to learn so I can better support them. I love the everyday interactions: seeing a smile, sharing a conversation, and knowing I’ve helped make someone’s day a little easier.”

“Growing up in a small town, I learned early on what community really means. After 15 years in Winnipeg, I chose Carberry so my children could experience that same small- town upbringing. Carberry has been a welcoming, friendly new home, and I look forward to meeting many more members of the community.”

Patrick Callin Manager, Branch Experience patrick.callin@stridecu.ca

Financial Experience Officer jenny.dyck@stridecu.ca Jenny Dyck

“One of the best parts of my job is working with our members. Stride has worked hard to curate an environment that still allows for grassroot conversations and relationships. Here at Stride, we truly get to know our members; we invest in their lives, in their families, and in their goals. Members aren’t just members, they’re our friends.”

“I've always loved being part of a small community where neighbours support one another and local businesses are at the heart of everyday life. I already enjoy visiting Carberry's local shops and community events, and I'm excited to become an even bigger part of the community by helping members reach their financial goals.”

Tyler Harland tyler.harland@stridecu.ca Account Manager

Jo-Elle Early Account Manager

jo-elle.early@stridecu.ca

“Growing up in Portage and working alongside Ag and Business members has allowed me to build strong relationships across the region. I look forward to continuing those connections in Carberry, taking a relationship-first approach and helping local businesses and farms achieve their goals."

“Living and working in rural Manitoba allows me to meet extraordinary people. Small communities know how to support one another and give back to those in need. The sense of community in our local Agriculture and Businesses is like nowhere else, and I am proud to be a part of it.”

Carla Ward carla.ward@stridecu.ca Deposit Account Manager

I've spent most of my career helping people, and there's nothing better than seeing the smile on a member's face when I've been able to help. I enjoy working with members and organizations throughout the Carberry area and look forward to building even more connections in the community."