FCIB launches Unsung Heroes search for 2011

Nomination forms are now available for the 2011 edition of the FirstCaribbean International Bank (FCIB) Unsung Heroes Programme.{{more}}

The local level of the two-tier programme got started with a launch with a difference, last Friday, April 8, at Heritage Square, as opposed to the press conference type setting of previous years.

Country Coordinator for the programme Aliethea Jackson indicated that this move was part of the programme’s new approach to promoting the event, by bringing the launch to a wider audience from the outset, in an effort to obtain more nominations from the general public.

Jackson said that the programme, which is in its 8th year, is making impact and inroads in the region and nationally, and has been a success story of which her institution is proud.

“We at FirstCaribbean continue to promote our Unsung Heroes Programme because we genuinely believe that our societies benefit greatly from the contributions of altruistic and capable individuals who in very specific and unique circumstances discern need and potential, and then take on the challenge of doing something to change the status quo… and create opportunities and avenues for people to grow and prosper.”

The Unsung Heroes programme seeks to identify persons in the communities around St. Vincent and the Grenadines, who, on their own and through their own resources, make contributions to their communities and the people around them.

Nominated persons are vetted by a seven-member panel which consists of Jackson, Artis Davis, Kasia Robinson, Lennox Bowman, Jacintha Hinds, George Bailey, and Jamila James.

The winning local hero receives US $6,000 which goes towards their cause, and then qualifies for the second level of the programme – the regional competition, which sees winners from the other territories receiving US $7,500.

To date, St. Vincent and the Grenadines has produced three regional heroes – John Roache, Veolant Cupid and Jestina Charles – and a number of runners-up.

Jackson said that her institution is confident that this country would produce another regional winner in the near future.

“Only time will tell, especially since it appears as though we have a treasure trove of unsung heroes, or a special secret to discovering them.”

Meanwhile, Head of Corporate Banking and Country Head of FCIB Elroy John, said that the bank was proud of the achievements of the local heroes on the national and regional level, and that would not have been possible without the nominations of the public, and encouraged them to continue supporting the programme with nominations.

“They (local heroes) play an invaluable role in improving their communities… they come from all walks of life and are recognized as community builders and enablers. Without them our society would be all the poorer.

“We have produced three regional heroes to date since the programme’s inception… FirstCaribbean, through the Unsung Heroes Programme, has given us the unique opportunity to unearth and pay homage to some outstanding human beings who on a continuous basis give of themselves and their limited resources, way beyond the call of duty so that others could live a better life.

“We are grateful to them and for their sterling contributions to the development of the local national and by extension, regional civilization.

“Without your nominations, submissions and support, the Unsung Heroes programme would certainly not be the huge success it is today… Without you the programme will not be what it is.”

Nominations for the programme end on June 30, 2011, with the winning finalist to be announced in October 2011 and the regional winner in November 2011. (JJ)