Republic Bank Celebrates 30 Youth Graduates of SSYDR Entrepreneurial Development Programme

Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited proudly announces the successful graduation of thirty (30) young entrepreneurs from the second cohort of SSYDR Entrepreneurial Development Programme (SEDP). This programme was implemented by Specialists in Sustained Youth Development and Research (SSYDR) Inc. with the generous support of the Bank’s Power to Make a Difference social investment initiative.

The graduation ceremony held on April 11, 2025 at Herdmanston Lodge, Georgetown marks a significant milestone in the Bank’s ongoing commitment to youth entrepreneurship and community development.

Twenty (20) of the graduates, from Regions 2, 3, 4, and 6 will now receive startup grants totaling $4.5 million Guyana dollars, to launch or expand their business ventures. In the coming weeks, recipients will begin acquiring the necessary equipment and supplies to pursue their chosen business paths, supported by continued business coaching to ensure their success.

Speaking at the graduation ceremony, Mr. Eon Grant, Manager, Head Office emphasized the Bank's dedication to supporting young entrepreneurs: "At Republic Bank, we deeply believe in the transformative power of youth entrepreneurship. As a proud sponsor of this significant initiative, we aim to positively impact lives and change fortunes for the better. Our partnership with SSYDR represents more than fulfilling our corporate social responsibility—it's a valuable investment in Guyana's future through you, our young entrepreneurs." First launched in November 2022, the SSYDR Entrepreneurship Development Programme has now served 115 youth from Regions 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 10. The comprehensive six-month initiative begins with two weeks of intensive training using the SSYDR entrepreneurship curriculum, followed by a One-Day Business Challenge and two additional weeks focused on business plan development and presentation. During the second month, participants begin purchasing equipment and setting up their operations, followed by four months of structured business coaching to help ensure the sustainability and growth of their ventures.

In her address, Mrs. Magda Griffith-France, Executive Director of SSYDR reflected on the organization’s journey, she stated “For over eight years SSYDR has worked tirelessly to empower young people through various initiatives. Time and again, we have encountered talented, driven youth with a passion for business but lacking the financial resources and knowledge to turn their dreams to reality. Providing this opportunity to own and grow their businesses is not just an investment in the future – it’s a step toward realizing our vision of inspired youth transforming themselves, their communities and their nation.” She further expressed her gratitude to Republic Bank for their continued support adding “Your dedication is proof that collaboration is one of the most powerful tools for social change.”

This transformative initiative is made possible through the ongoing support of Republic Bank (Guyana) Limited, under its Power to Make a Difference (PMAD) social investment initiative. Through PMAD, Republic Bank remains deeply committed to making a lasting difference in the communities it serves.