Rokel Commercial Bank Celebrates 157 Employees for Decades of Dedication
On Saturday, September 14, 2024, Rokel Commercial Bank held a memorable ceremony at the new Freetown City Complex to honor 157 employees for their outstanding dedication and long service. The event celebrated staff members who have worked for the bank for 15 to 35 years, including those who played pivotal roles during its transition from Barclays Bank Plc to Rokel Commercial Bank following the government’s takeover.
As attendees gathered in the elegantly decorated City Hall, the atmosphere was filled with pride and nostalgia. The awardees were divided into three categories based on their years of service, each ascending a beautifully adorned stage to receive plaques and inspiring citations that highlighted their contributions to the bank’s success.
Millicent Cole, a remarkable long-serving employee and the first woman to hold the title of Director at Rokel Commercial Bank, shared her journey during the ceremony. She recounted the bank’s tumultuous past, characterized by liquidity and solvency challenges, alongside low staff morale. Despite these hurdles, Millicent expressed immense pride in how the bank emerged from those difficulties, transforming into a thriving and stable financial institution in Sierra Leone. Her words resonated deeply with both current and former employees present, reflecting the resilience and determination that has defined the bank’s journey.
In his address, Managing Director Dr. Walton Ekundayo Gilpin paid glowing tribute to the honorees, acknowledging their unwavering commitment and selflessness. He emphasized the importance of unity among staff members, urging them to set aside any differences and channel their energies toward a prosperous future for the bank. “Let us convert our negative energies into positive energies,” he stated passionately. “It’s not just about the number of years you serve, but the impact you make in the service of this bank and, by extension, your country.”
The event also included heartfelt speeches from other leaders within the bank, who shared anecdotes and reflections on the significance of teamwork and collaboration in overcoming challenges. Employees were encouraged to view their individual contributions as vital to the bank’s collective success, inspiring a renewed sense of purpose among the staff.
As the evening progressed, awardees expressed gratitude not only for the recognition but also for the camaraderie that has developed over the years. Many shared their experiences and the bonds they have formed with colleagues, illustrating the supportive culture that has characterized Rokel Commercial Bank.
The event concluded on a high note, with a call for continued commitment to excellence and innovation as the bank looks toward the future. With a firm foundation built on years of dedicated service, Rokel Commercial Bank aims to continue its legacy as a leader in the financial sector of Sierra Leone.
