The vital contribution of entrepreneurship to Barbados and Caribbean economies has been re-emphasised by the Barbados Youth Business Trust (BYBT) as part of its celebrations for Global Entrepreneurship Week (GEW).

BYBT was able to host the celebrations with the support of CIBC FirstCaribbean International Bank which contributed to its awards ceremony held recently at the bank’s flagship branch at Warrens. There, some 40 people, including supporters and entrepreneurs, were heralded for their contribution to the implementation of activities for GEW and received certificates and engraved memorabilia.

Cardell Fergusson, General Manager, BYBT said the event, which sought to highlight BYBT’s challenges and successes through 2014, went “very well”. Awardees included Young Entrepreneur of the Year (male and female), Wasim Worrell and Nicole Forde-Niles; Business Mentor of Year (male and female), Clifford Hinkson and Allison Mottley; and Specialist Mentor of the Year, Cameron Jackman.

The Learning Zone at CIBC FirstCaribbean’s Warrens branch was transformed for the occasion. “Persons who came in were pleasantly surprised. It was a nice relaxing evening which provided an opportunity to network and learn more about BYBT as well as opportunities for entrepreneurs to provide services through catering and décor, for example,” Mrs. Fergusson noted.

CIBC FirstCaribbean has had a long and fruitful relationship with youth business organisations across the region including BYBT, providing funding for the ongoing development of youth entrepreneurship programmes.

Ms. Fergusson noted that the relationship with the bank was “so strong” that it holds a seat on BYBT’s Board of Trustees. “The annual support that we get from CIBC FirstCaribbean assists us not only with operations but in providing loans and business support to entrepreneurs. Their contribution has greatly impacted on how we operate.”

In thanking the bank for its contribution to the awards ceremony, the BYBT general manager said, “CIBC FirstCaribbean has pledged their support to entrepreneurship in the region and we are very grateful to them for their belief in its promotion and for helping BYBT in advancing its mandate to help young entrepreneurs to get started in creating businesses toward economic growth.”

The bank’s Managing Director, Barbados, Donna Wellington said the bank’s interest in the development of young entrepreneurs in Barbados and across the region was stronger now more than ever. “We continue to be committed to sustainable social and economic development initiatives which have great promise to positively impact the lives of the region’s youth.”