Joyful Journeys: Chelsea McKenzie

Chelsea, M1 Community Relations Specialist, recently made waves at the local CU SparkTank competition—walking away as the Chapter-Level winner with her heartfelt and high-impact idea: a small-dollar student loan designed specifically for college and trade school students. The loan would help students cover essential expenses like books, technology, and school supplies—bridging a financial gap that Chelsea herself experienced in her academic journey.

“Going through college, I wish I had something like this,” Chelsea shared. “A credit union I could lean on—to help build my credit and teach me strong financial habits.”

Her concept struck a powerful chord with the judges and audience alike, standing out in a competition that featured two other incredible young professionals. But it was Chelsea’s authenticity, purpose-driven mindset, and the clarity of her idea that earned her the top spot—and an enormous “big check” moment she won’t soon forget!

Presenting her idea for the first time was no small feat. “It pushed me out of my comfort zone and inspired me to keep challenging myself in new ways,” she said. With courage and commitment, Chelsea embraced every step of the process, supported by a caring crew of mentors and peers along the way. She credits Erin Malekadeli, Kristen Williamson, and Nic Wise for their guidance, and gives a special shoutout to team members who offered encouragement and feedback throughout—and to Zandi for a “beautiful Canva template” that brought her presentation to life.

Now, Chelsea looks ahead to the MCUL Annual Conference & Expo (ACE) in Grand Rapids this June, where she’ll represent both our chapter and M1 on Center Stage. “I’m very excited to present at the next level—especially to continue showing everyone how amazing M1 is,” she said.

As she prepares to elevate her pitch with valuable feedback, Chelsea is reflecting on just how much this experience has shaped her growth. “This has completely pushed me out of my comfort zones and showed me that I can do hard things,” she said. Her advice for other young professionals?

“No idea is a bad one. Everyone gets nervous, but do it with shaking hands. Push yourself—your future ‘you’ will thank you!”

Chelsea hopes her idea will welcome more Gen Z members to credit unions like M1 and help them become financially secure as they navigate early adulthood. Above all, she’s grateful for the opportunity to grow within a credit union that believes in empowering young professionals.

“We are the future of the credit union movement,” Chelsea says. “And I’m so thankful to work at a place that helps us reach our full potential.”

Congratulations, Chelsea!

Your dedication, creativity, and heart-centered vision are a true reflection of what it means to be purposeful, empowering, and a pillar of our M1 community. We celebrate your courage, your commitment to growth, and your investment in creating brighter financial futures for others. We’re proud to cheer you on as you take Center Stage at ACE—you inspire us all!