Global Co-operative Executive Masterclass Cohort 6 Visits Rochdale Townhall

In a historic and deeply symbolic moment, Global Co-operative Executive Masterclass Cohort 6 set foot in Rochdale Town Hall, the birthplace of the cooperative movement. The cohort was warmly and honorably welcomed by Deputy Mayor of Rochdale, Councillor Faisal Rana, whose gracious reception reflected Rochdale’s enduring commitment to the global cooperative family.

During the visit, Mr. Noel D. Raboy, Founding Trustee of the Co-operative College of the Philippines and President & CEO of CLIMBS Life and General Insurance Cooperative, delivered a heartfelt message on behalf of the delegation:

“Good day everyone.

On behalf of our delegation, may I express our heartfelt thanks to Deputy Mayor Faisal Rana, Deputy Mayor of Rochdale; Deputy Mayoress Iram Faisal; and Julie Murphy, Interim CEO of Rochdale Borough Council, for the very warm and generous welcome extended to us here in Rochdale — the birthplace of the cooperative movement.

It is truly meaningful for us to be received in this historic town — a place we proudly call our home in spirit. Over the span of six cohorts, we have had the privilege of bringing more than 500 cooperative leaders here to Rochdale, each visit deepening our appreciation of the courage, solidarity, and shared hope that gave birth to this global movement.

Being here reminds us that cooperation was born not from comfort, but from struggle, purpose, and a commitment to a fairer society.

We also wish to extend our sincere thanks to Jacqui Thomasen of the Co-operative College UK and Liz McIvor of the Co-operative Heritage Trust for their continued partnership and support, which have been instrumental in making these learning journeys meaningful and impactful for our global cooperative leaders.

Thank you for opening your city to us and for honoring the global cooperative family. We are inspired by Rochdale’s legacy, and we carry its values with us as we continue to build cooperatives that serve people, communities, and future generations.

Once again, thank you, and it is truly an honor to be home.”

This visit marks a powerful milestone for Cohort 6—an opportunity to reconnect with the roots of cooperation, draw inspiration from its living legacy, and carry its principles forward as cooperative leaders shaping inclusive and sustainable futures worldwide.