The aroma of traditional Guyanese cuisine, the spirit of friendly competition and a strong sense of unity filled Hadfield Street on Friday as employees of the Guyana Public Service Co-operative Credit Union Limited (GPSCCU) came together to celebrate Guyana’s 60th Independence Anniversary through an inter-department cooking competition.
At the end of the spirited contest, the Customer Service and Credit Department emerged champions, edging out three other departments in a showdown that highlighted creativity, teamwork and camaraderie among staff members.
Held on the avenue opposite the Credit Union’s headquarters, the event brought together teams from the Human Resource and Administrative, Corporate Services, Accounting and Finance, and Customer Service and Credit departments. Each team comprised a head chef and two assistants who were tasked with preparing and presenting dishes capable of impressing the judges.
The competition, which ran from 2:00 p.m. to 4:45 p.m., attracted staff members and curious onlookers who gathered to enjoy the festive atmosphere and culinary displays inspired by Guyana’s rich cultural traditions.
Judges assessed the teams on taste and flavour, presentation and creativity, and the originality and inspiration behind each dish. After the scores were tallied, Customer Service and Credit secured first place with more than 262.5 points. Corporate Services finished a close second with 257.5 points, followed by Accounting and Finance with 247.5 points, while Human Resource and Administrative earned 208 points.
The event formed part of the Credit Union’s activities marking Guyana’s Diamond Jubilee of Independence.
Founded on March 2, 1964, GPSCCU is one of Guyana’s largest and oldest credit unions, serving thousands of public servants and their families. Over the decades, the institution has played a significant role in promoting savings, financial security and economic empowerment among its members while fostering a culture of cooperation and community service.
Chief Executive Officer Christopher Thompson praised the participants for embracing the spirit of the occasion.
“This is what we can achieve when we come together — have fun and create something special.”
Chairman Trevor Benn also congratulated the teams and joined in the presentation of prizes to the winning department.
While Customer Service and Credit walked away with the coveted title, organisers said every participant contributed to an afternoon that celebrated not only Guyana’s Independence but also the values of unity, cooperation and teamwork that have long defined the Credit Union movement.
As the festivities ended, one question remained: can Customer Service and Credit defend its crown next year, or will another department claim bragging rights in what has become one of GPSCCU’s most anticipated annual events?
