Republic Bank (EC) Limited has officially inaugurated the 2025–2026 cycle of its Power to Make a Difference (PMAD) Programme, reinforcing its four-year legacy of strategic, purpose-driven social investment throughout the Eastern Caribbean. Under the revitalized theme ‘Powered by Purpose, Transforming Communities,’ the initiative continues to drive meaningful change across the region.
The launch event, a Presentation of Partners gathering held on December 10 at the Sandals Grande Ballroom, introduced 14 new and returning partner organizations spanning six Eastern Caribbean territories. This expansion signals both the program’s growing influence and its deepening commitment to regional development.
Financial commitments underscore the scale of this initiative: Republic Bank has channeled over $6.3 million into community projects across its operational territories during the past five years. Notably, nearly $2 million has been dedicated specifically to the PMAD Programme over the last three years, with Saint Lucia receiving approximately $500,000 in investments.
The 2024/2025 funding cycle supported diverse initiatives focusing on youth empowerment through educational and cultural programs, environmental conservation, healthcare accessibility for differently-abled individuals, and entrepreneurship and sports development.
Tracy Bartholomew, Managing Director for Republic Bank (EC) Limited Group, articulated the program’s philosophical foundation: “Our PMAD programme embodies the deepest values of Caribbean people. We help each other, lift as we climb, and build communities and bridges. Sustainability at Republic Bank transcends environmental concerns—it encompasses creating systems that enable individuals to flourish, communities to thrive, and opportunities to multiply regardless of geography, background, or circumstance.”
The PMAD framework aligns with the United Nations Principles for Responsible Banking and supports the achievement of all 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). This cycle brings particular momentum to Saint Lucia, where projects emphasize innovation, inclusion, and youth development.
Returning partner Orbtronics continues its leadership in STEM education, providing advanced robotics and industry-level training that prepares students for scholarships, university placements, and global technology careers. The National Council of and for Persons with Disabilities advances its media-based aquaponics program, enabling persons with disabilities to cultivate food, generate income, and operate modern agricultural technology independently.
The Daren Sammy Foundation, established by the celebrated cricket icon, continues creating pathways for promising student-athletes from low-income backgrounds through mentorship, scholarship opportunities, and leadership development. New partner St. Mary’s College Secondary School joins with its robotics, coding, and ICT program designed to bridge the digital divide by providing hands-on technological access for young boys, cultivating future engineers, programmers, and digital innovators.
Anna-Kaye Boodho, General Manager of Orbtronics, highlighted the distinctive nature of the bank’s partnership approach: “Republic Bank’s investment is not silent. It has enabled partners to learn, grow, and expand beyond initial expectations. Their care transcends corporate social responsibility obligations, nurturing authentic relationships rooted in a shared passion for lasting, positive change.”
Collectively, these partnerships reflect RBEC’s steadfast belief in community-led progress and its dedication to forging opportunities for future generations. Through PMAD, the Bank sustains its investment in programs that strengthen social infrastructure, promote equity, protect vulnerable populations, encourage innovation, and empower Caribbean communities to thrive.