Finding connection at Young Rabo while supporting sustainable community initiatives

Leroy joined Rabobank just after the pandemic. “I was working from home most of the time – learning at lot, but isolated. We’d just gotten through the pandemic, so I wanted to be around people again.” He found his community at Young Rabo, a network bringing together over 1,500 coworkers aged 36 and under. “It was like a whole new world: playing sports together, catching up over a drink, taking part in training sessions, organizing fun events.”

Running a small organization

Leroy joined the committee right away. “I was keen to play an active role in Young Rabo, so I went to regional meetups and organized growth sessions.” When a spot opened on the committee, he stepped up to an even more meaningful role – one that feels like a perfect fit. “You could say we’re running a small organization here. We have our own policy, budgets and communications. It’s serious stuff, but it’s also very rewarding. We organize all sorts of events: from beach calisthenics and volleyball to TED talk training and customer visits on the island of Terschelling in the north of the country. Whatever we do, we make sure it’s both engaging and educational.”

Empowering communities

Leroy has swapped his SME advisor role for one as a marcomms consultant. He nowworks at the coalface of the community on projects such as ‘Help with Money Worries’, part of Financially Healthy Life.“We started off by reaching out to municipalities, debt counselors and customers, asking them what issues they faced and how we can help. We used this input to build an inspiring program that helps thousands of people in the Netherlands to manage their finances.”

He and his team also support local initiatives. “The Rabo Impact Fund plays a particularly important role, providing funds to buy sustainable solar panels for a football club, support a community project against poverty or help shape a money management program aimed at young people.” Leroy finds the work deeply rewarding and believes it shows the power of cooperation in action. “Giving something back to society is what Rabobank is all about. Seeing the bank’s impact on so many lives and projects fills me with pride.”

Working on yourself and the future

Leroy still enjoys remote work but also prioritizes regular in-office days. “Being in the office is an all-round better experience. I feel better for it. It lets you stay in the loop and meet new coworkers, and it’s easier to help each other out. It gives me a sense of belonging.”

Leroy is still a champion of Young Rabo. “It’s where my growth took off and I truly thrived, teaching me how to run events, lead a team and create policy. It’s a place that lets you experience, make mistakes, gain confidence, and build a truly supportive community. It’s worth its weight in gold.” His advice to coworkers is this: “Find your tribe. Join a community. It could Young Rabo or a community like Rainbow, Rabo Women or Rabo Internationals. You get so much in return.”