Mural unveiled to mark 20 years of COB CARES programme

A bold splash of colour and a symbol of community pride now greets those passing through Six Roads, St Philip, with the unveiling of a vibrant mural celebrating the 20th anniversary of the City of Bridgetown (COB) Credit Union’s Children Are Really Enthusiastic Savers (CARES) Programme. The youth initiative is credited with shaping the lives of many of its junior members.

Adorning the wall of the polyclinic, the artwork was created by brothers Nikolai, Alexei, and Sergio Charles of Santrio Creative, with the support of students from the Princess Margaret Secondary School.

The mural was unveiled on Saturday evening in Six Roads, St Philip.

Sponsored by COB Credit Union, the mural forms part of a broader effort to beautify Six Roads while highlighting the credit union’s ongoing investment in youth and community development.

“It represents community, education, savings, and youth development. A daily reminder of what the CARES programme stands for – investment into our youth and hope for a better Barbados,” said COB Vice President Curtis Cave.

“Our creativity and passion have transformed this wall into something meaningful… In today’s fast-paced world, 20 years of consistent service, impact, and growth is no small achievement.”

Acting Branch Manager of the Six Roads location, Keisha Watson, described the mural as “a vibrant symbol of the community that we are so proud to serve.”

“At the City of Bridgetown Credit Union, we have always believed that financing is about more than just dollars and cents; it’s about people. It’s about neighbours helping neighbours and investing in the heart of the communities that we call home.”

Minister of Economic Affairs and Parliamentary Representative for St Philip West, Kay McConney, commended COB for its long-standing commitment to service.

“You have, from your inception at the City of Bridgetown, been very much member-focused. You have been one of the more innovative credit unions in the country, and you have always remained dedicated to community development,” she said.

“This initiative today is just a continuation of the work that you have started and the commitment and the reputation of this credit union to doing things that are meaningful to the lives of people.”

Adding a cultural flair to the event, attendees were treated to performances by staff member Tarique O’neal, who was joined by Ross for their Crop Over song Single. Performances were also given by Junior Monarch in the soca category Mr. Showman and second-placed finisher AJ — both members of the House of Soca, which is sponsored by the credit union. Recently crowned Pic-O-De-Crop Monarch, Mr. Blood expressed his appreciation to the financial institution for their continued support. (STT)