Celebrate Global Unity: Fun Ways to Mark International Co-op Day

The global significance of the co-operative movement and the advantages it brings will be highlighted through a series of engaging activities to commemorate International Day of Co-operatives on July 6. The theme for this year’s celebrations is "Cooperatives Build a Better Future for All," and the Co-operatives Department of the Ministry of Energy and Business, along with its stakeholders, will be hosting events to draw attention to this impactful movement.

1. Service at the Carrington Wesleyan Holiness Church
   On Sunday, June 30, a service will be held at the Carrington Wesleyan Holiness Church on Welches Road, St. Michael, starting at 10:00 am. It is open to members of the co-operative movement and the general public, urging everyone to participate in recognizing and appreciating the value of co-operatives in our society.

2. Half-day Conference on Co-operative Business Models
   Wednesday, July 3, will feature a half-day conference focusing on Enhancing Ownership through the Co-operative Business Model. The discussions will be led by distinguished individuals like Lieutenant Colonel Trevor Browne of Co-op Energy and Oriel Doyle of the Co-operatives Investment Fund, shedding light on the sustainable and empowering nature of co-operative enterprises.

3. Co-operative Fair at Church Village Green
   The main event will be a Co-operative Fair held on Saturday, July 6, at the Church Village Green, Central Bank, St. Michael, running from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Various co-operatives will showcase their innovative products and services, including Women Entrepreneurs, Emerging Brands, Pinnacle, Unified Trust, and Pig Farmers’ Co-operatives.

   • Items for Sale: Attendees can explore and purchase a wide range of products such as bath and beauty items, locally crafted clothing, artwork, handcrafted soaps, plants, fresh produce, jewellery, custom bags, sweets, and women’s accessories.

   • Health Checks and Food Tastings: The Diabetes and Hypertension Association of Barbados will offer free health screenings. Guests can also enjoy vegetarian food samples from Pinnacle Co-operative, as well as pork treats from the Pig Farmers’ Co-operative, expertly prepared by Dr Phil’s Kitchen. Various other culinary delights will be available for purchase.

   • Entertainment: Throughout the day, there will be lively entertainment, featuring Resident DJ Sweet Tunes Entertainment, a talented steelpan player Elan Marie Jordan of ELANJAY, Dance Machine, a Co-op band, and a captivating fashion show presented by Telra Promotions.

This multifaceted celebration aims to showcase the positive impact of co-operatives and how they contribute to building a better future for all community members. Let’s come together, support, and celebrate the spirit of cooperation!