Credit Unions showcase strength and community in annual celebrations

Credit Unions across St. Vincent and the Grenadines (SVG) joined millions of members worldwide last week to celebrate International Credit Union (ICU) Week which ran from October 12 to 18, 2025, under the global theme: “Co-operation for a Prosperous World ”.

This year’s observance was of special significance as it coincided with the International Year of Co-operatives (IYC 2025), declared by the United Nations to highlight the vital role co-operatives play in building inclusive, equitable, and sustainable societies.

Throughout the week, the SVG Co-operative League and its affiliates hosted a variety of activities showcasing the strength and community spirit of the co-operative movement. The celebrations began on Sunday, October 12, 2025 with religious observances held in churches across the country, the League said in a release.

The activities also included a series of media features celebrating co-operative impact where members, staff, and volunteers also had the opportunity to share their stories across radio, television, and social media highlighting how co-operatives have touched lives and strengthened communities.

International Credit Union Day, Thursday, October 16, credit unions organised their own activities recognizing milestones, honouring pioneers, and expressing appreciation to members for their continued trust and support.

The celebrations wrapped up on Friday, October 17, with the National Credit Union and Co-operative Exhibition at the Kingstown Post Office Car Park during which credit unions showcased the products and services of they offer, demonstrating their vital role in promoting financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, and community development across St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

For over 70 years, credit unions and co-operatives have been a cornerstone of national development, promoting financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, and social upliftment. With a combined membership exceeding 82,000 Vincentians, and savings of more than EC$680 million, the credit union movement continues to demonstrate the power of “people helping people”.