The spirituality of co-operatives and economic change: a surprising tale

In 2025—the United Nations International Year of Co-operatives—this webinar explores an often-overlooked thread in the co-operative movement: its deep and ongoing connections with faith communities.

The spirituality of co-operative and economic change – a surprising tale highlights how co-operatives, as one of the oldest forms of what is often now called social enterprise, have long intersected with spiritual traditions to bring about social and economic transformation. From energy to finance and environmental action, communities of faith continue to play an integral role in shaping ethical and collective responses to today’s most pressing challenges.

Join us to explore how faith traditions have influenced, and continue to inspire, co-operative efforts across Australia and beyond. Our panellists bring lived experience and deep knowledge of faith-based co-operative initiatives, offering both historical context and contemporary relevance:

• Stefan Gigacz (Director, Australian Cardijn Institute): on the co-operative roots of the Young Christian Workers movement in Australia
  
  
• Nashat Qadan (Director, Islamic Co-operative Finance Australia Limited): on Islamic finance and its co-operative future in Australia
  
  
• Rob Stewart (Member, 888 Co-operative Causeway): on Catholic social teaching and the call to climate action through local energy initiatives
  
  

Time will be allowed for Q&A and open discussion.

This event is proudly co-hosted by 888 Co-operative Causeway and the Australian Cardijn Institute. All proceeds from ticket sales will support the ongoing work of both co-operatives in building a more just, democratic, and sustainable economy.

Come along to hear this surprising and inspiring story of faith and co-operation—past, present and future.