Applicant #16: Tia Jones

Tia Jones is a 20-year-old from London.

Tia's video application:

Tia online:

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Tia's current situation:

Hi, I’m Tia! I am twenty years old and live in London Ontario. I am going into my third year in a Western/Fanshawe collaborative program revolving around television broadcasting and media called MTP (Media Theory and Production).

For three summers, I had an amazing opportunity: going to a week-long leadership camp, and got to experience the magic of CYL (Co-operative Young Leaders).  I learned about how co-operative organizations (such as credit unions!) work and the benefits their members experience.
I returned for a fourth year as a leader and had the chance to teach my fellow teenagers about credit unions, how to be a strong and co-operative leader, and that through a co-op we all have a voice – a voice that is heard! 

I really enjoy writing, and I have so many ideas for future blogs! Also, video production is a passion of mine.  Another hobby of mine is teaching guitar through the City of London in my spare time.
I hope you enjoy my application video, it was a blast!

Tia's blog post:

I have been with a credit union since I received my first allowance! In my experience, being part of a credit union has its pros and cons:

Pros: I am a part an amazing thing! I have a say, my money is MY money. I am part of a democratic system that follows through. I have seen this first hand, as I have attended three annual meetings of my credit union (you should too, it was really cool!).  The fact that I could put my hand up at any time and be heard was comforting – everyone’s needs were heard! This system is especially important today, because we are so used to a pyramid shaped system with few at the top and many at the bottom.  

Cons: I am part of the Kellogg’s Employee Credit Union, meaning I am related to a Kellogg’s employee –who requires strict brand loyalty! Meaning their cereal ONLY! Lucky Charms? Never tried them. Captain Crunch? Nope! Trix? Not for me! But I could tell you the difference between Rice Krispies and Special K!
When I think about the sacrifice I have made to be part of a credit union, I know it is worth it. I would give up a bowl of sugary goodness to be a member of my credit union any day. I know when I pick up my debit card I am literally holding my financial future in my hands, and I am in total control of the direction I take.  Let’s make the most of our money!

Tia