As it continues to celebrate its 190th Anniversary, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI), has launched GBTI Care, which is a strategic framework through which it will deepen its investment in people, communities and initiatives that contribute to Guyana’s long-term prosperity.
The initiative will see the bank placing greater emphasis on its corporate social responsibility, environmental stewardship, community development and sustainable growth through a unified approach.
In an address at the launching of the initiative on Friday, the Chairman of GBTI, Suresh Beharry, said for nearly two centuries, GBTI has been part of Guyana’s economic journey – supporting commerce and enterprise, financing the ambitions of entrepreneurs, and helping families achieve their aspirations, while contributing to the development of communities across the country.
GBTI Care, he said, builds on that legacy, as the bank further integrates itself in the sustainable growth and development of the country.
“GBTI Care builds upon that foundation, brings greater structure, focus, and accountability to our efforts, ensuring that our contributions are guided by clearly defined priorities, and importantly, that their impact can be measured. The word care is deliberate. It reflects the values that we believe should guide not only our engagement with society, but also the way we conduct our business,” the Chairman explained.
Mr. Beharry said the Bank’s approach is built around four pillars – community development, financial literacy, responsible banking and environmental steward.
It was explained that through the programme, GBTI will invest in initiatives that strengthen communities, improve lives, and create opportunities for those who may not otherwise have access to resources they need to realize their potential.
Noting that financial knowledge is a powerful tool, Beharry said GBTI will equip individuals with the knowledge and skills to manage their finances, make informed decisions, and plan for their future.
“As a financial institution with a history spanning 190 years, we understand that trust is our most valuable asset. Responsible banking means ensuring that integrity, accountability, sound governance, sustainability remains central to our decisions and the way we conduct our business. … As Guyana continues to develop, we must remain conscious of our responsibility to protect the natural environment that is such an important part of our national heritage. Throughout this pillar, we will promote environmental awareness, encourage sustainable practices, and support initiatives that contribute to a healthier and more sustainable future,” he said.
The GBTI Chairman said financial institutions must do more than offer financial services, adding that they must recognize their broader responsibility as partners in national development. He said it was against that background that GBTI Care was launched.
“Financial institutions such as GBTI have an important role to play in helping to shape that future. We must look beyond our traditional role as providers of financial services and recognize our broader responsibility as partners in national development. It is in this spirit and with a clear sense of purpose that we are pleased to formally launch GBTI Care,” Beharry said.
It was explained that GBTI Care changes the Bank’s approach to its corporate social responsibility, and its commitment to environmental, social and governance principles.
Meanwhile, GBTI’s Chief Executive Officer, Shawn Gurcharran, said in recent years, the bank has experienced significant growth across multiple areas of business. He said the positive growth was as a result of expanded services, strengthened financial performance and investment in people. The bank, he assured, will continue along that trajectory.
“As Guyana continues its remarkable transformation, GBTI stands ready to support businesses, entrepreneurs, homeowners, and investors as they pursue new opportunities. While we honour our rich history, our focus remains firmly on the future, a future defined by innovation, inclusion, sustainability, and excellence in service delivery,” the CEO said.
As part of the launch of GBTI Care, the bank handed over a cheque to the tune of $4.8 million to the St. Joseph Mercy’s Hospital. The funds will go toward the renovation of the GBTI room at the hospital, thereby contributing to the delivery of quality healthcare services, and improved patient care at the facility.
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