By:St. Clair Sazam Hull
Nevispages.com
(CHARLESTOWN NEVIS)-On the morning of Friday, May 26, 2016 the St. Kitts and Nevis Development Bank conducted a ceremony in Charlestown as part of its 35th anniversary celebrations.
The ceremony began with the invocation by Pastor Euclid Lawrence. This was followed by the National Anthem.
Chairperson of the event, Mr. Mervin Hanley, issued the opening remarks. He told those gathered, that with giving 35 years of service and progress to the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis, the Bank has indeed made a difference. He pointed out, that whether it is in education, through student loans and scholarships, or whether it is in construction, you have seen the brand the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis. Hanley noted, that the Bank should be applauded for their significant contribution to the country.
Branch Manager, Ms. Hyercinth Pemberton, also gave some remarks. She indicated, that the Bank has contributed in a number of areas such as commerce and personal development. Ms. Pemberton stated, that she herself is a product of the Bank and not just as an employee, but also as a proud student. She pointed out, that the Bank has been actively involved in social investment in the communities as well as providing sponsorships for sports, Cultural Festivals, churches and schools just to name a few. The Manager stated that for the past ten years, the institution would have dispersed loans in excess of four hundred million dollars into the Federation’s economy to fund a number of projects.
Ms. Pemberton said, that this has act as a catalyst for employment for a number of business persons. She also noted, that the Bank not only give loans to their business clients, but to ensure their sustain survival, they provide assistance from preparation of business plans to provision of technical assistance. In closing, Ms. Pemberton thanked the Nevisian public for the support that they have given over the past 35 years, and noted that they were looking for their continued support.
One of the Bank’s clients, Pastor Wayne Hyliger, also gave some brief remarks. He told the gathering, that for most part of his adult life he has been self employed and the Banking Institution has certainly contributed to his self employment. He pointed out that for one to be self employed, they must have a vision and a skill but most importantly they will need money. Hyliger stated, that in the past, he had approached the Development Bank of St. Kitts and Nevis on five occasions, and only on one occasion he was denied.
He indicated, that the Bank is one for the people and no vision is too small for them to fund. Mr. Hyliger said, that if one has an idea and they think it is too small, they must put that concept aside and bring that vision to Development Bank and with their expertise, it is going to work. He also stated, that one might have a vision and think it is too large, and the Bank doesn’t have the resources to fund that vision, but one should not allow the size of their vision to prevent them from approaching the Bank.
Premier of Nevis, Hon. Vance Amory also distributed some remarks. He indicated, that he was pleased and honoured to have been asked to be a part of the occasion. Amory stated, that the Bank having been formed 35 years ago, had a very simple mission to engage in financing and ensuring the development of persons in St. Kitts and Nevis. The Premier stated that it was also important to note that the Bank has changed over the years. He indicated, that the institution started with a very small staff and like all good businesses, morphed and grew into something more sustainable as business improves. Amory opined, that he remembered the office in St. Kitts being just a little one door place and in Nevis there was a similar office in the Cotton House.
Hon Amory also said, that the Bank has grown and has expanded here in Nevis into a very comfortable office space at the Wards Building. He noted, that this clearly indicates to us that the Bank is making progress for itself and also to its clients whom it has given major support. The Premier noted, that he himself made a request to get a loan in 1985, but he was turned down even though he thought he was an eligible candidate. Hon Amory claimed that he had all of his papers, but his application was not accepted but he is extremely happy for those who have benefited. In conclusion, Amory noted that we should chase our dreams and take them to the Bank if we are in need of help.
The vote of thanks was given by Ms. Avelyn Browne.
