The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry Limited (GBTI) yesterday held its annual early savers drawing, which saw young account holders Yasmin Raza, Sarah Sanmoogan and Mahadev Basdeo each winning a bicycle.

Speaking at the simple presentation ceremony held at the bank’s Water Street Georgetown branch, Officer-in-Charge of Deposit Accounts Raymond Forde, expressed the bank’s pleasure at being able to help young people achieve financial independence from a tender age and congratulated the winners and their parents.

“We are aware of the many difficulties, economic and otherwise that many families face in today’s society,” he said, “But nevertheless [we] feel that if provided with the relevant opportunities, young people can be a source for growth since we believe that the same discipline exhibited in managing your finances will be transferred to your studies and career development.”

He added that it is the bank’s considered view that financial independence can guarantee success in many aspects of life. As such, the bank is especially happy that young people with the active support of their parents have seen the necessity to have a savings account at GBTI to serve as the foundation for success in their future endeavours.

The GBTI Early Savers Club was established in 1995 with the aim of developing good saving and money management habits among young people.