GBTI backs KFC Goodwill International tournament

Just under two weeks away from kick-off, another sponsor has been added to the star-studded cast for the KFC Goodwill International Schools’ football tournament. The Guyana Bank for Trade and Industry (GBTI) joins the likes of title sponsors KFC, New GPC Inc under their Limacol brand and the Royal International Hotel as sponsors.

The homegrown Guyanese financial institution on Tuesday handed over $1.5M to the tournament’s coordinators, Petra Organisation, during a simple ceremony at their Kingston, Georgetown, head office.
There, Senior Marketing Manager Pernell Cummings reaffirmed the company’s commitment to making investments in youths and sports.
“First, let me say GBTI is proud of this investment in the future. I wouldn’t just say a sponsorship but an investment in the future. So, GBTI will continue to support sports throughout Guyana; this is just one of the first steps we’ll make. And of course, we’re always happy to partner with the Petra Organisation,” Cummings shared.
On the other hand, Petra Co-Director Troy Mendonca enlightened on the value of the company’s support.
“And I want to say to you that your contribution is not only a donation as it relates to covering our logistics and so on, but it is an investment that you’re going to see youths graduating from this tournament.”
Mendonca went on to reflect on expressing his intentions to invite a Jamaican team to the tournament years ago, an idea that was met with a response of “You guys ready for Jamaica?” The Petra Co-Director went on to draw a parallel, highlighting that years down the road, Guyana’s Chase’s Academic Foundation not only trumped the Jamaican champion but also Trinidad and Tobago’s best in what was a statement victory in 2024.
So, that in itself says how important it is to support this tournament,” Mendonca added as he went on to express their gratitude to the bank.
Mendonca later confirmed the three schools representing Guyana in the eight-team tournament, set to kick off on December 14.
Defending champions, Chase’s Academic Foundation will be joined by Republic Bank league runners-up West Ruimveldt Secondary, alongside Annai Secondary, who won the Region Nine playoffs.
From Trinidad and Tobago, St Benedict’s College will compete. Kingston College of Jamaica, Anglican Central Education Authority (ACEA) Select of the Bahamas, Monteiro Lobato School of Boa Vista, Brazil, and Suriname’s Schools’ Championship winners will add to the tournament’s international flair.
The competition will conclude on December 21st and will also feature a Cultural Night where participating schools will display their home country’s cultural aspects.