GBTI launches CARE initiative to coincide with 190th anniversary

As it celebrates an extraordinary 190 years of service to Guyana, the Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) has unveiled its CARE initiative aimed at formalising and strengthening the bank’s commitment to creating lasting social impact and supporting sustainable national development.

The introduction of GBTI CARE marks a significant milestone in the Bank’s 190th anniversary year, reflecting a renewed commitment to creating meaningful social impact and supporting Guyana’s continued development. Through this initiative, GBTI reinforces its belief that its role extends beyond banking to empowering people, strengthening communities and contributing to national progress.

Representing community, awareness, responsibility and empowerment, GBTI CARE is founded on four strategic pillars that will guide the bank’s investments in social development, community engagement, environmental responsibility and public awareness initiatives.

Through this framework, GBTI will continue to partner with organizations and communities to deliver programmes that create measurable and lasting benefits across Guyana.

The launch marks a defining moment in the Bank’s 190th anniversary year, reinforcing a legacy built not only on financial strength and innovation, but also on service, trust and a deep connection to the people of Guyana.

Speaking at the launch, its Chairman, Suresh Beharry emphasised that the true measure of an institution’s success lies in the positive impact it creates for society.

“A meaningful legacy is not defined solely by years of operation or financial performance. It is reflected in the lives we touch, the opportunities we create and the difference we make in the communities we serve. As Guyana continues its remarkable transformation, we have a responsibility to ensure growth is inclusive, sustainable and beneficial to future generations.”

Beharry encouraged the GBTI family, partners and stakeholders to view CARE not simply as a corporate initiative, but as a reflection of the values that define the institution and guide its everyday decisions.

In addition, Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Shawn Gurcharran reaffirmed the bank’s commitment to remaining at the forefront of innovation while delivering solutions that improve the lives of customers and communities alike.

“As Guyana evolves, so too must the institutions that serve it. Our commitment remains centered on creating value for our customers, investing in technology, expanding access to financial services and contributing meaningfully to national development. GBTI CARE provides a structured and impactful way for us to extend that commitment beyond traditional banking.”

Demonstrating its commitment to action from day one, GBTI announced the first initiative under the GBTI CARE programme with a $4.8 million contribution to St. Joseph Mercy Hospital for the refurbishment of the hospital’s GBTI Room.

This inaugural project reflects the programme’s focus on delivering tangible benefits that improve the quality of life for individuals and strengthen the institutions that serve communities across Guyana.

For nearly two centuries, GBTI has stood alongside the people of Guyana through periods of growth, change and transformation. Through GBTI CARE, the Bank is building on that legacy by investing in initiatives that empower people, strengthen communities and create opportunities for future generations.

As Guyana continues its journey of development, GBTI remains steadfast in its purpose and its promise: to be a bank that not only powers progress through finance but also creates meaningful impact where it matters most.