FirstCaribbean International Bank (CIBC FirstCaribbean) has donated funds to assist the development of business by providing financial support to Youth Business T&T (YBTT), an organisation that helps young entrepreneurs establish sustainable businesses through self-employment.
CIBC FirstCaribbean managing director, Anthony Seeraj presented a cheque to YBTT that represents the bank's commitment to development of entrepreneurship among T&T's young people.
"It gives us great pleasure to make yet another donation to YBTT. We acknowledge the great work they are doing and applaud their efforts in helping to secure the future of our nation," Seeraj said. "At CIBC FirstCaribbean, we are committed to building the communities in which we operate. Through our association with YBTT, we are addressing an important need in our society – the positive enrichment of youth."
With the support of the business community, YBTT helps young people between the ages of 18-35 years to work for themselves by providing access to business loans and business mentoring. The organisation funds most types of businesses, ranging from web design to agriculture production to day care centres.
Project co-ordinator, Stakeholder and Media Relations at YBTT, Sandrine Rattan thanked the bank for the generous donation.
"YBTT is extremely pleased to have the support of CIBC FirstCaribbean. It shows that they are investing in the future of our nation and supporting the young, aspiring entrepreneurs and future business leaders of Trinidad and Tobago. This donation will help us in our work to create a facilitating environment in which the young people of this country can discover their full potential and access sustainable opportunities for entrepreneurship," she said.
YBTT will use the funds directly for its Business Symposium on the Creative Industries for Students on November 16, part of its activities for Global Entrepreneurship Week.