Republic Bank and the University of the West Indies (UWI) Empower Future Professionals through the 2026/2027 UWIRBL World of Work (WOW) Programme

Port of Spain, Trinidad, October 14, 2026: Republic Bank and the University of the West Indies (UWI) reaffirmed their longstanding partnership to prepare the next generation of professionals for the evolving world of work with the official launch of the 2026/2027 UWI-RBL World of Work (WOW) Programme held on Saturday, October 10, 2026.

Through the Bank’s Power to Make a Difference (PMAD) programme, this initiative signifies a continued collaboration spanning more than two decades, helping final year university students bridge the gap between academic learning and professional life by equipping them with the knowledge, practical skills, and confidence needed to navigate their careers.

Under the theme “The Career Blueprint: Design. Build. Thrive.”, the 2026/2027 programme encourages students to approach their career journeys with intention, remain open to new opportunities, and cultivate the confidence and resilience required to succeed in today’s dynamic workplace.

Michelle Joseph-Dindial, Branch Sales Manager, Republic Bank UWI Branch, urged students to think outside the box when it comes to their career paths. “To the students joining us today, this is your opportunity to begin creating your own blueprint. Think beyond simply getting a job.” She went on to say, “Think about the kind of professional you aspire to become, the impact you dream of making, and the life you can’t stop thinking about. You don’t have to figure everything out in one day — all you need is the curiosity to explore, the courage to begin, and the willingness to keep learning. Because after all, at the risk of sounding cliche, Rome wasn’t built in a day.”

Through a series of practical and professional development activities, students will have the opportunity to strengthen their workplace preparation, engage with industry professionals, and gain valuable insights into the expectations of prospective employers. Upcoming activities include a networking practicum, mock interviews, and a recruitment fair, providing students with opportunities to build professional connections and put their skills to practice.

Republic Bank’s continued investment in the WOW programme reflects its commitment to youth empowerment and workforce development through its Power to Make a Difference (PMAD) programme, the Bank’s corporate social responsibility initiative. By supporting efforts that prepare young people for meaningful participation in the workforce, it seeks to help build a generation of capable, confident, and future-ready professionals.

As the 2026/2027 programme gets underway, Republic Bank remains committed to creating opportunities for young people to realise their potential and contribute to the development of society.

Launched in 2003 in Trinidad and Tobago, the Power to Make a Difference programme aligns with the Bank’s sustainability objectives and its commitment under the United Nation’s Principles for Responsible Banking to support the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals.

Over the years, PMAD has expanded beyond Trinidad and Tobago to several other territories in which Republic Bank operates including Barbados, the Eastern Caribbean, Grenada, Guyana, and Suriname. The programme stands as a testament to the Bank's dedication to building stronger, more resilient communities across the region.

Anchored by four key pillars, the Power to Learn, the Power to Succeed, the Power to Help, and the Power to Care — the programme continues to guide Republic Bank’s efforts to create meaningful, sustainable, and lasting impact throughout society.