Several credit unions from across Trinidad and Tobago were honoured on Thursday for their outstanding financial performance and human resource development during the Trinidad and Tobago Co-operative League’s Annual National Awards and Recognition Ceremony, held in observance of International Credit Union Day.
Accolades may have taken centre stage at the Trinidad and Tobago Co-operative League’s Annual National Awards and Recognition Ceremony on Thursday, but CEO and Managing Director of CUNA Caribbean Insurance Society, André Goindoo, says the true measure of a credit union’s success lies in the lives it transforms.
“For the family that now has a place to call home, the young person whose education has opened doors to a brighter future, or the member who found hope and financial security during a difficult time, their Credit Union is already a winner.”
As credit unions navigate an increasingly complex financial landscape, President of the Trinidad and Tobago Co-operative League, Auldric Neptune, says the movement has the potential to meet those challenges head-on.
“We face a shifting economic climate, emerging technological disruptions, and evolving regulatory frameworks. But if this evening has proven anything at all, it is that we possess the talent, the financial strength, the leadership and the youth capital to conquer any obstacle that stands in our path.”
Meanwhile, Director of the National Intelligence Unit of Trinidad and Tobago, Nigel Stoddard, stressed that credit unions stand as a critical pillar of nation-building.
He also urged credit unions to view compliance and anti-money laundering measures as critical tools for protecting members and maintaining public trust.
“When credit unions uphold robust compliance standards, transparent governance and rigorous reporting, you demonstrate that community banking can be both compassionate and secure.”
The ceremony recognised several outstanding credit unions that surpassed the PEARLS Monitoring Standards, which serve as the benchmark for efficiently run financial co-operatives.