PHOTO CAPTION: RF Merchant Bank & Trust representative Fay Burke (far right) joins Graydon Sealy Secondary School students, staff, and administration in marking Agrofest 2026.
BRIDGETOWN, BARBADOS – RF Merchant Bank & Trust (Barbados) Limited has doubled down on its commitment to youth empowerment by supporting Graydon Sealy Secondary School’s participation in the Barbados Agricultural Society (BAS) Agrofest Secondary Schools Culinary Cook-off, held Friday, 27 February 2026.
Students Tashone Belgrave-Ifill, Aaliyah Bynoe, and Jaliyah Brathwaite put on a strong showcase of creativity and teamwork, leveraging mentorship from renowned Barbadian chef Adrian Cumberbatch, Human Ecology teacher Ms. Michelle Brathwaite, and Head of Department Ms. Anna Alleyne. Their standout dish — pan-seared Bajan spice-infused dolphin in Creole sauce, paired with a sunflower coconut spread, root crisp, garlic-infused vegetable spring roll, and pineapple-mango chutney — impressed judges with its flair and polish.
“The team produced a dish that featured bold, well-balanced flavours and an aesthetically pleasing presentation,” Ms. Braithwaite said. “Although they did not advance to the finals, they represented the school with pride and professionalism, and the experience provided invaluable learning opportunities.”
Through RF’s sponsorship, the students were able to engage in extensive practice sessions ahead of the competition.
“At RF, we regularly back transformative programmes that empower the communities we serve,” said regional communications supervisor Ethan Knowles. “The Agrofest Culinary Cook-off teaches young Barbadians to engage with their environment, their foodways, and their culture. It’s been a privilege to support it, and we look forward to future partnerships that champion youth empowerment.”
The school expressed deep gratitude for the Bank’s support.
“We are sincerely thankful to our main sponsor, RF Merchant Bank & Trust, for their generosity,” said Mrs. J. Shyrelle Howard-Gittens, principal at Graydon Sealy Secondary School. “RF’s support allowed our students to prepare thoroughly and present a dish that reflected their dedication and pride.”
As part of its community impact campaign, RF Merchant Bank & Trust will continue to support initiatives that drive youth development and promote environmental awareness, reinforcing its role as a partner in building stronger, more resilient communities.
About RF Bank & Trust
Since its inception in 1997, RF has been committed to helping clients create and manage wealth. The firm has helped clients raise over USD $2.2 billion in capital, manages $1.5 billion in assets, and administers over $2 billion. RF offers a broad range of financial solutions including Mutual Funds, Investment Management, Investment Banking, Group & Personal Pension Plans, Stock Brokerage, and Trust & Estate Planning.
For more information, please visit http://www.www.rfgroup.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram @rfbanktrust.
MEDIA CONTACT
Ethan Knowles
Regional Communications Supervisor
RF Bank & Trust
603-6000
