Who are we?
From Humble Beginnings to Financial Strength. Learn about our mission, values, and the dedicated team committed to serving our members.
Our Story
From humble beginnings to industry leaders, our journey is one of innovation, dedication, and growth. Discover how our commitment to excellence and our passion for service have shaped our path and continue to drive us forward.
The Central Bank Employees Credit Union (CBECU) is a member-owned financial cooperative founded on the principles of collaboration and shared prosperity. Our mission is to empower Central Bank employees by providing accessible, affordable, and personalized financial services.
Over two decades ago, a group of security officers working at the Central Bank recognized a common need and pooled resources to address it. This spirit of cooperation inspired the creation of the CBECU. In July 1989, the credit union was officially registered, with Mr. Arthur James as President and Mr. Charles De Silva as Vice President.
The early days saw steady growth, with membership expanding from a dedicated few to 58 members within a year. This growth was accompanied by an increase in members’ shares and the issuance of the first loans, laying a solid foundation for the future.
"Solid Foundation"
Integrity & Honesty, Excellence, Commitment, Teamwork, Accountability, Confidentiality. 🙌
Mission Statement
We are committed to serving our members with excellence and innovation while promoting thrift to enhance their socio-economic well-being.
Vision
To be the premier provider of financial services for our members.
Core Values
Integrity & Honesty, Excellence, Commitment, Teamwork, Accountability, Confidentiality.
Experiences and Fond Memories
As a founding member of the CBECU, it is indeed a heartfelt pleasure to know that after over 30 years in existence, CBECU continues to be strong and is still a force to be reckoned with as a reputable financial institution. There is no doubt that such an institution is sorely needed during these challenging times and I extend hearty congratulations to the present and past governing Boards for their commitment and dedication to the ideals established so many years ago.
I served as the Chair of the first Supervisory Committee and was able to utilize my financial skills to guide the Credit Union to understand its obligations and adherence to policies and procedures. Subsequently, I served as President for four (4) consecutive years and during this period together with my Board, I always tried to ensure that we were meeting the needs of the members within the parameters established but also with some flexibility.
One of the major aspects that I recall was the exhibition of items made by members who were part of a curtain and drapery course offered by the Education Committee at the time. We approached Mr. Sabga of Standard Distributors to lend us furniture for the bedroom, living and kitchen to display the items made by members. We actually transformed the Central Bank’s concourse into a spectacular display of home items. The participants and visitors loved it!! And we were congratulated by Dr. Terrence Farrell, the then Deputy Governor, who was the featured speaker at the graduation of the members on the same day on the 16th floor. What an amazing evening!!
Over the years together with Patrick Solomon, the then Treasurer, we ensured that CBECU was always regarded as a top-notch Credit Union. We introduced safe and high-quality investments and for a few years, we did not accept honoraria until we felt the entity could afford to do so without sacrificing dividends for the members.
Yes, those days were challenging for a new Credit Union, but we were resolute in our efforts to make it work, and together as a Board that worked assiduously to make it a success, we the foundation members most of whom came from the Security Department are proud of what CBECU is today and we must pay homage to all those who are still here and to those who have passed on. Special mention of Arthur James, the first President.
Well done!!
Ann Marie Narine