The Belize Bank Limited is thrilled to share our pride in supporting Izabella Zabaneh, Belize’s official delegate to the 74th Miss Universe Pageant in Thailand.

As Bella prepares to represent Belize on the global stage, we celebrate her dedication, grace, and determination. Her journey embodies the very values we champion — excellence, confidence, and purpose.

Belize Bank’s sponsorship is more than just financial support; it is a statement of national pride and confidence in Izabella’s ability to shine as an ambassador for Belize. Her passion, poise, and commitment to her platform reflect the strength and spirit of our nation.

Through her advocacy, Bella continues to inspire others by leading with authenticity and heart, reminding us all of the power of belief, hard work, and national unity.Belize Bank extends its heartfelt best wishes to Izabella as she showcases the beauty, intelligence, and resilience of Belizean women to the world. We are honored to stand beside her on this remarkable journey and join the nation in cheering her on as she makes Belize proud.

Belize Bank proudly hosted its 13th Annual Scholarship Award Ceremony, marking over a decade of steadfast commitment to education and youth empowerment. This year, 15 exceptional students were awarded full scholarships based on financial need and academic excellence, chosen from a highly competitive pool of 175 applicants.

Since its inception, the Belize Bank Scholarship Program has supported a total of 158 students—100 at the high school level and 58 at the sixth form level—demonstrating the Bank’s unwavering dedication to education as a cornerstone of national development.

The ceremony was held in the presence of esteemed guests, including Hon. Ramon Cervantes, Minister of State in the Ministry of Education, Science and Technology, who delivered an inspiring keynote address.

Belize Bank’s Executive Chairman and CEO, Mr. Filippo Alario, encouraged students to seize the opportunity, highlighting that the scholarship program goes beyond financial aid. It offers a comprehensive support system that includes school supplies and mentorship by Belize Bank professionals, helping students build strong academic foundations and personal growth.

“Education opens doors, and with the right guidance and support, we believe these young minds will shape a better future for Belize,” said Mr. Alario.

Sixth Form

• Joshua Grant
• Sabrina Enwright
• Aaron Rubio
• Itzel Garcia
• Ryan Castellanos

High School

• Irlanda Chi
• Angel Hernandez
• Julisa Ayuso
• Briannie Can
• Kennirah Andrewin

High School

• Shanice Goff
• Joshua Smith
• Orlando Baeza
• Andre Sanchez

Belize Bank remains committed to investing in Belize’s future by supporting the next generation of leaders through educational opportunity and empowerment.

Belize Bank is honored to have supported the Belize Cancer Society’s second annual Men’s Health Forum, held under the theme: “Strong, Smart, and Self-Aware: Empowering Men & Boys for Healthier Futures.”

The event, hosted at the Old Belize Pavilion, was part of Men’s Health Awareness Month and aimed to encourage men across the country to prioritize their physical and mental well-being. It featured a dynamic lineup of healthcare professionals who explored crucial topics such as:

• Andropause, testosterone therapy, and hormonal health
• The effects of aging on men’s quality of life
• Redefining masculinity and mental wellness
• Early detection and navigating a cancer diagnosis

Participants, including our chairman, Filippo Alario, and six male staff members, also benefited from interactive sessions and on-site health screenings, including a convenient digital blood type test with instant results.

Perhaps most impactful were the personal testimonials from cancer survivors, who spoke candidly about their journeys from diagnosis to recovery. Their stories served as powerful reminders of the importance of early intervention, support systems, and the courage to speak up.

Belize Bank remains committed to supporting impactful community initiatives that improve the lives of Belizeans. Events like this one not only raise awareness but also break barriers, fostering a culture where men are encouraged to speak up, seek help, and live healthier lives.

Together, we can build a future where every man has the support and information he needs to thrive.

For the second consecutive year, The Belize Bank Limited proudly partnered with the inspiring Summer Bond Camp, a transformative initiative founded by Mrs. Carolyn Gentle-Genitty. This week-long camp welcomed 150 energetic young minds, ages 7 to 13, for a memorable journey of learning, growth, and fun.

On Thursday, July 10th, Belize Bank team members stepped away from their desks and into the heart of the camp, volunteering their time and energy to lead and support a series of meaningful sessions. From teamwork to financial literacy, the day was filled with activities that left a lasting impression on both campers and volunteers alike.

The sessions included:

Service & Gratitude: Campers explored the value of kindness and service to others, learning that even small acts of compassion can make a big difference.

Sports: Fundamentals of basketball, volleyball, and table tennis were taught in a spirit of camaraderie and confidence-building. A special highlight was a visit from the Belize Bank Bulldogs Female Softball Team, who brought excitement and inspiration to the field.

Arts & Crafts: Through creative expression, campers visualized their goals and dreams, showing that art is a powerful tool for storytelling and self-belief.

Financial Education: Our Belize Bank volunteers introduced the basics of saving, emphasizing that no amount is too small to start building a better future. Campers were taught that smart habits today can lead to strong foundations tomorrow.

To close the day, each camper received a piggy bank, a simple yet powerful reminder that dreams begin with action, and that every dollar saved is a step toward a brighter future.

At Belize Bank, we believe in investing in people, and that starts with the next generation. We’re honored to support programs like Summer Bond Camp that plant seeds of purpose, potential, and positive change.

Belize City, Belize – March 20, 2025 – Belize Bank and Mastercard, proudly hosted the second Girls4Tech Marathon in Belize from March 17th to 19th, 2025. This transformative initiative provided 300 primary school girls in Belize with critical STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) skills, reinforcing the Bank’s ongoing commitment to education, financial inclusion, and gender equality.

The event was graced by Ms. Namrita Balani, Director of the Science, and Technology Unit in the Ministry of Education, who delivered an inspiring address emphasizing the importance of empowering young girls through education and technology. In her remarks, Ms. Balani stated, “Programs like Mastercard´s Girls4Tech are essential in breaking down barriers and ensuring that our young girls have the confidence and opportunities to pursue careers in STEM. We commend Belize Bank and Mastercard for their commitment to fostering a brighter, more inclusive future.”

Mr. Rodolfo Zavaleta, Mastercard’s Regional Commercial Director, also provided an insightful overview of the Mastercard Girls4Tech program. He highlighted its global impact and the significance of bringing this initiative to Belize for the second time. “Girls4Tech has a powerful purpose, to close the gender gap and encourage the interest and participation of girls in STEM subjects. We have already reached 7 million girls across 65 countries, surpassing our established goal of reaching 5 million girls by 2025. We are excited to be here in Belize for a second time, engaging more and more girls.”

Historically, gender stereotypes have discouraged women and girls from pursuing careers in STEM. However, initiatives like Girls4Tech, Belize Bank, and Mastercard are actively changing this narrative by providing young girls with hands-on experiences and exposure to technology-driven fields.

The impact of the program was evident in the feedback from participating schools. Grace Primary School Principal, Mrs. Dyann Garnett, shared, “Mastercard´s Girls4Tech has been an amazing experience for our girls. While strides have been made to close the gender gap in IT, challenges remain. This initiative provided our students with valuable exposure and confidence.” Similarly, Yolanda Davis, Principal of Pancotto Primary School, expressed gratitude, stating, “Our students were excited, and our teachers were encouraged to participate. Thank you, Belize Bank, for this experience!”

As the only bank in Belize to partner with Mastercard on this groundbreaking initiative, Executive Chairman, Mr. Filippo Alario stated: 

“Belize Bank remains committed to promoting financial inclusion and education for the youth of Belize. By equipping young girls with essential skills and resources, we are helping to build a more inclusive future where everyone, regardless of gender, has access to economic opportunities.

Belize Bank encourages stakeholders, educators, and community leaders to support initiatives like Girls4Tech in fostering innovation, gender equality, and education in Belize. Together, we can empower the next generation of female leaders and changemakers.”

Financial Inclusion Means You Too!

In partnership with Hand in Hand Ministries, Ms. Jackline Arzu, a single mother of 6 children, was presented with the keys to her new home.  This is the 11th family the Bank has assisted with a home, in providing financial support, under Hand in Hand’s “Building for Change” Program.

This year, the house build was done in Punta Gorda where our team was in full force. The volunteers comprised of 21 staff members who brought along their spouses , children and other family members which demonstrates the true meaning of a community coming together for the greater good; in this case, a warm home which will improve the quality of life for Ms. Jackline and her family.

Ms. Jackline has expressed her sincere gratitude to Belize Bank Ltd. and Hand in Hand ministries for making her dream of owning a home a reality.