GBI joins supporting cast for Republic Bank League

Just days ahead of the official kick-off of the Sixth Annual Petra-organised Secondary School Under-18 Football League, Guyana Beverage Inc (GBI) has joined the sponsorship line-up – and just in time.
Joining corporate powerhouse Republic Bank, the tournament’s title sponsor, GBI has reaffirmed its commitment to youth development through sport with a sponsorship investment valued at over $1.1 million. This timely financial support, provided through GBI’s flagship brand Busta, underscores both the growing prestige of the tournament and the company’s dedication to grassroots football development.

The league is set to kick off on Sunday, October 19, at the Ministry of Education (MoE) Ground, Carifesta Avenue. It will feature eight secondary school teams – five from Georgetown and three from Regions Two, Four, and Seven – competing over a seven-week period. The championship will culminate on November 30, with teams vying not only for silverware but also for national recognition.
The tournament has evolved into one of the most important fixtures on Guyana’s schools’ football calendar, offering a crucial platform for the nation’s most promising under-18 talent. It also provides local teams with the opportunity to secure a coveted spot in the KFC Goodwill International Schools’ Football Tournament.
GBI’s sponsorship package extends beyond financial support. It includes branded uniforms for players, coaches, and support staff, as well as refreshments throughout the tournament, ensuring that teams are fully equipped and supported to perform at their best.
Speaking at the sponsorship handover, Petra co-director Troy Mendonca expressed his gratitude, stating, “I would like to extend my sincerest appreciation to Guyana Beverage Inc for coming on board to support our Sixth Annual RBL U-18 Football League. This is not just a partnership between two entities; it is a substantial investment into one of our flagship developmental programmes.”
Mendonca emphasised the importance of league-based structures in youth football development, noting, “The RBL League has proven to be a crucial stepping stone for school teams.”
He highlighted, “Just last December, Chase’s Academic Foundation (participants in this very league) made history by winning the KFC International Goodwill Series for the first time. That achievement speaks volumes about the tournament’s impact.”
Delivering remarks on behalf of GBI, General Manager Samuel Arjoon reinforced the company’s vision. “Football is not just a game; it’s a pathway to building character, confidence, and community among our youth. Our continued partnership with Petra reflects our belief in empowering young people and promoting positive lifestyles through sport. We are proud to support initiatives like this that foster youth development,” Arjoon expressed.
With this latest investment, Guyana Beverage Inc joins Republic Bank Limited as a cornerstone sponsor of the league, helping to realise the dreams of young footballers across the country and elevate the standard of school-level football in Guyana.