IBF - dec09.cdr - The Institute of Banking and Finance Of Trinidad ...
IBF - dec09.cdr - The Institute of Banking and Finance Of Trinidad ...
IBF - dec09.cdr - The Institute of Banking and Finance Of Trinidad ...
Create successful ePaper yourself
Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.
IBAF NEWS NEWSDecember Vol: 45<br />
INSTITUTE OF BANKING AND FINANCE OF TRINIDAD & TOBAGO<br />
2009<br />
Graduation 2009<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Institute</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Banking</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Finance</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago (IBAF) held its Annual Graduation Ceremony at Premier Quality Services<br />
Auditorium, <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago Bureau <strong>of</strong> St<strong>and</strong>ards on July 04th 2009.<br />
<strong>Of</strong> the one hundred <strong>and</strong> twelve [112] student members who were honoured, one hundred <strong>and</strong> eight [108] completed the Certificate for<br />
Financial Advisors Programme, one [1] graduate who completed the Diploma in <strong>Banking</strong> Programme <strong>and</strong> three [3] others attained the<br />
Certificate Level <strong>of</strong> the Diploma in <strong>Banking</strong> Programme.<br />
Feature Address<br />
This was delivered by Ms. Sharon Christopher - Deputy Chief Executive <strong>Of</strong>ficer - CorporateAdministration <strong>of</strong> First Citizens Bank Limited.<br />
Ms. Christopher spoke on the topic “Ethics in the Financial Industry” <strong>and</strong> began her address by referring to the role <strong>of</strong> Gordon Gekho<br />
played by Michael Douglas in the movie “Wall Street” in which he declared that “greed is good”. She focused on the current financial crisis<br />
both globally <strong>and</strong> locally, outlining the main cause <strong>of</strong> the crisis <strong>and</strong> the role ethics or the lack there<strong>of</strong> played in the crisis. We were all asked<br />
to question ourselves with respect to our actions as they relate to our obligations in our working environment. She highlighted the<br />
following:<br />
Ms Christopher advised that there is work to be done as the ideas <strong>of</strong> the individual must be aligned with the ethics <strong>of</strong> the Company <strong>and</strong> this<br />
necessitates real reform. This means that companies should refocus efforts from pr<strong>of</strong>its, budgets, bonuses, billings <strong>and</strong> media spin <strong>and</strong><br />
focus on the way people are treated, how the organization creates opportunities <strong>and</strong> how<br />
everyone finds meaning in their work.<br />
Graduation<br />
List <strong>of</strong> Graduates<br />
Tribute – Yvonne Tenia<br />
AGM - New Council<br />
Workshops 2009<br />
Workshops 2010<br />
<strong>The</strong> need for reform in the Financial Industry.<br />
<strong>The</strong> need to have senior executives play an active role in this reform.<br />
<strong>The</strong> need to set personal examples <strong>of</strong> commitment <strong>and</strong> integrity <strong>and</strong> to adhere to the highest ethical st<strong>and</strong>ards.<br />
<strong>The</strong> need to be prepared to make decisions that get to the heart <strong>of</strong> what is right <strong>and</strong> wrong.<br />
TABLE OF CONTENTS<br />
Students Corner<br />
Studying Tips<br />
IBAF’S Library<br />
Registration & Exam Deadline Dates<br />
IBAF Website<br />
What’s Next?<br />
Editor: Elizabeth Fox<br />
Design & Layout: Media Print Ltd.<br />
IBAF Mailing Address<br />
<strong>Trinidad</strong> Guardian Bldg, (3rd Floor)<br />
22-24 St. Vincent Street, Port <strong>of</strong> Spain<br />
P.O. Box 1259, Port <strong>of</strong> Spain.<br />
Tel: 627-2231 / 623-3601<br />
Fax: 627-2218<br />
E-mail: ibaf@carib-link.net<br />
Website: www.ibaf.org.tt<br />
1-2<br />
3<br />
4<br />
4<br />
5<br />
6<br />
6-7<br />
7<br />
8<br />
8<br />
8<br />
Valedictorians<br />
Sharon Williams <strong>and</strong> Camille Ramkalawan-Seepersad both remarked on the relevance <strong>of</strong><br />
the <strong>Institute</strong>’s courses to both their personal <strong>and</strong> pr<strong>of</strong>essional lives. On behalf <strong>of</strong> the<br />
graduates, they praised the <strong>Institute</strong> for the support <strong>and</strong> encouragement that they received<br />
over their years <strong>of</strong> study.<br />
Fellowship Awards<br />
Fellowship Awards were presented to four [4] persons for their contributions to the <strong>Institute</strong><br />
<strong>and</strong>/or the <strong>Banking</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Finance</strong> Sector. <strong>The</strong>se individuals are:<br />
Mr. Edward Henry Sealy<br />
Contribution to the development <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Banking</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Finance</strong> Industry in <strong>Trinidad</strong> rinidad <strong>and</strong> Tobago<br />
Mr. David Dulal-Whiteway<br />
Contribution to the development <strong>of</strong> <strong>Banking</strong> in <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago<br />
Mr. Richard P. Young<br />
Contribution to the development <strong>of</strong> <strong>Banking</strong> in <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago obago<br />
Mr. Roy Stephen Allum Poon<br />
Contribution to the <strong>Institute</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Banking</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Finance</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago obago<br />
1
Graduation 2009 (continued)<br />
<strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago Unit Trust Corporation graduates <strong>of</strong> the<br />
Certificate for Financial Advisors Programme with Mrs. Amber Rondon,<br />
V.P. Human Resources <strong>and</strong> Ms. Joanne Thomas, Asst. V.P. Human<br />
Resources.<br />
First Citizens Bank Limited graduates <strong>of</strong> the Certificate for Financial<br />
Advisors Programme with Ms. Sharon Christopher - Deputy Chief<br />
Executive <strong>Of</strong>ficer Corporate Administration <strong>and</strong> Mrs. Joel Ann<br />
Cook-Walcott, Snr. Manager Recruitment <strong>and</strong> Development.<br />
Republic Bank Limited graduates <strong>of</strong> the Certificate in <strong>Banking</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />
Certificate for Financial Advisors Programmes with their C.E.O.,<br />
Mr. David Dulal-Whiteway.<br />
2<br />
Scotiabank <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago Limited graduates <strong>of</strong> the Certificate for<br />
Financial Advisors Programme with their Managing Director,<br />
Mr. Richard P. Young.<br />
Diploma in <strong>Banking</strong> graduate - Ms. Sharon Williams from <strong>The</strong> Central Bank<br />
<strong>of</strong> <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago <strong>and</strong> Certificate in <strong>Banking</strong> graduate, Mr. Shane<br />
Samodee from First Caribbean International Bank (<strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago)<br />
Ltd.<br />
Fellowship Awardees: From right Mr. Richard P.Young, Mr. David<br />
Dulal-Whiteway <strong>and</strong> Mr. Roy Stephen Allum Poon, (missing from photo<br />
Mr. Edward Henry Sealy).
2009 Graduates<br />
Certificate For Financial Advisors<br />
Janelle Benjamin First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Denise Britton First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Nicole Diaz First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Riad Gajadhar First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Kimling Gobin First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Dwayne Harris-John First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Karimah Joseph First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
<strong>The</strong>resa Joseph First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Geeta Joseph-Nanan First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Jiselle Julien First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Hammond Khan First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Magdalene Kissoon First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Debra Lendor-Grant First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Kumarie Mahadeo-Persad First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Sherma Mangray First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Michelle Pacheco First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
S<strong>and</strong>ie Persad-Victor First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Alana Phillip First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Erica Pierre First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Karina Pierre First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Marva Pollard-Gill First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Adeline Quamina First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Aneil Ramsamooj First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Angela Reece First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Enell Satnarine First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Karen Sealey First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Anushka Seesaran First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Alan Siu Kwan Hang First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Vicky Sookdeosingh First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Francesca Walters First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Kareen Williams First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Certificate Level - Diploma in <strong>Banking</strong> Programme<br />
Vanessa Francis Republic Bank Ltd.<br />
Sally Ramsubhag First Citizens Bank Ltd<br />
Shane Samodee First Caribbean International Bank (T& T) Ltd<br />
Diploma In <strong>Banking</strong><br />
Sharon Williams Central Bank <strong>of</strong> <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago<br />
Joanne Ali Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Valarie Aqui Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Nydra Babal-Ramdeo Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Wayne Benny Persad Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Stacy Bess-Collins Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Melissa Boodhan Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Lystra Boodram-Nowrang Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Hyacinth Boyce Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Parbatie Chin Cheong Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Charmaine Dopson Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Radha DinDin-Rampersad Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Nerissa Doodhai-Ramdeen Republic Bank Ltd<br />
AnnamariaEugene Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Laverne Evelyn Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Pulbassie Ganness Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Keino Gibson Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Ryan Hannays Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Marc Harris Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Gregory Hercules Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Goomatie Jagai Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Sonia Jugmohunsingh Republic Bank Ltd<br />
S<strong>and</strong>y Julien-Williams Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Ingrid Lee Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Debra London Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Christopher Ma Kuan Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Sattee Mahase-Ahmed Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Kerry-Ann Mahon Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Wendy Lois Maunday Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Marsha Mendez Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Estella Mc Call Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Ann McGuire Bertr<strong>and</strong> Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Sheldon McLean Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Rasheeda Mohammed Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Kaveeta Persad-Bachan Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Karen Peru Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Donna Quash-Boxhill Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Claudine Ragbir Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Sheryl-Ann Ragoobarsingh Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Vinoo Ramdhanie Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Vanessa Ramdial-Charles Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Denise Tricia Ramnath Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Paul Sanchez Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Gayatri Seejattan-Bridgelal Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Colin Seemungal Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Sally Sinanan-Seepersad Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Vydan<strong>and</strong> Singh Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Angela Sookhai Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Debra Taylor Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Camille Ramkalawan- Republic Bank Ltd<br />
Seepersad<br />
3<br />
Anastasia Achaiba Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Sally Ali Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Roshni Beharrylal Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Everald Sheldon Bobb Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Jessica Chin Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Shazim Mohammed Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Lana Mc Lean Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Avalon Nelson Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Cindy Seemungal-Ramsaran Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Dianne Singh Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Reshma Toll Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Gregory Torres Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Fellowship Awards<br />
Mr. Edward Henry Sealy<br />
Nilma Campbell Stewart T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Mera Deonarine T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Dawn E. Francois-Cupidore T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Gizelle Gomez T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Lesley Sharon Hutton T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Andrea Jeffers T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Sarika Khan-Sookram T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Janelle Lezama T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Melanie Samantha Phillips T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Marsha Ramasray T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Reshma Rangoo T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Masika Sealey-Ali T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Paula Stewart T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Marcia <strong>The</strong>ophilus T&T Unit Trust Corporation<br />
Virginia Mendez RBTT Bank Ltd<br />
June-Ann Br<strong>and</strong>t Global Financial Brokers Limited<br />
Contribution to the development <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Banking</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Finance</strong> Industry in <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago<br />
Mr. David Dulal-Whiteway<br />
Contribution to the development <strong>of</strong> <strong>Banking</strong> in <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago<br />
Mr. Richard P. Young<br />
Contribution to the development <strong>of</strong> <strong>Banking</strong> in <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago<br />
Mr. Roy Stephen Allum Poon<br />
Contribution to the <strong>Institute</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Banking</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Finance</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago
Tribute - Yvonne Tenia<br />
AGM - New Council<br />
Council Member<br />
Mr. Mark Carmino President<br />
Mr. Josef Baptiste Vice President<br />
Ms. Charmaine Caballero<br />
Mr. Shiva Manraj<br />
Mr. Raymond Smith<br />
Mr. Harigobin Jhinkoo<br />
Ms. Donna Fyfe<br />
Mr. Errol Simms<br />
Yvonne Lauren Alicia Tenia<br />
August 10th 1976 - August 9th, 2009<br />
“Living life to the fullest”<br />
Yvonne was born to Alden <strong>and</strong> Edmie Friday on the 10th day <strong>of</strong> August 1976, <strong>and</strong> was<br />
diagnosed with sickle cell anemia one year later. In her early childhood, she underwent<br />
several blood transfusions, <strong>and</strong> at least one surgery, but this did not deter Yvonne from<br />
living life to its fullest.<br />
Yvonne loved life <strong>and</strong> was very popular among her classmates <strong>and</strong> teachers, <strong>and</strong> had<br />
many friends. She was outgoing, friendly, charming <strong>and</strong> very beautiful, on the inside<br />
<strong>and</strong> out. From childhood Yvonne developed a close relationship with God <strong>and</strong> always<br />
nurtured her spirituality. She gave passion to every aspect <strong>of</strong> her life, <strong>and</strong> this was true<br />
also <strong>of</strong> her career.<br />
Yvonne has been a member <strong>of</strong> the <strong>Banking</strong> family since June 1st, 1995, <strong>and</strong> whilst there, she embraced the responsibilities <strong>of</strong><br />
Shop Steward <strong>and</strong> Union Executive with wholehearted drive <strong>and</strong> compassion. When she retired from this world, Yvonne left as<br />
a Supervisor I Credit/Securities (Grade 4) at the Corporate & Commercial Business Centre, Republic Bank Limited in Tobago.<br />
Having attained the Certificate Level in the <strong>Institute</strong> <strong>of</strong> <strong>Banking</strong> <strong>and</strong> <strong>Finance</strong> DIB Examinations, she was one module away from<br />
attaining her Diploma.<br />
Yvonne was not afraid <strong>of</strong> a challenge, <strong>and</strong> was both talented <strong>and</strong> versatile. Yvonne leaves to mourn her husb<strong>and</strong> Sean <strong>and</strong> son<br />
Shaundell, <strong>and</strong> will be deeply missed by friends <strong>and</strong> family. She was very family oriented <strong>and</strong> made every member <strong>of</strong> her family<br />
feel vital to her. Her voice, smile <strong>and</strong> undaunting spirit will be missed by all who were close to or knew Yvonne, even in the<br />
smallest way. Yvonne was a great friend, a wonderful wife <strong>and</strong> mother, a loving <strong>and</strong> dependable daughter <strong>and</strong> an amazing<br />
sister <strong>and</strong> aunt, who is…irreplaceable. Rest in peace, Yvonne.<br />
<strong>The</strong>se members were duly elected as Directors <strong>of</strong> the Council for the period 2009-2010<br />
Alternate<br />
Ms. Rosalie Campbell<br />
Mr. Sterling Frost<br />
Ms. Karen Yip Chuck<br />
Mrs. Nola Drayton-Smith<br />
Mr. Dave Ramsumair<br />
Mr. Gary Awai<br />
Ms. Heather Alexis-Huggins<br />
4<br />
Bank<br />
RBTT Bank Limited<br />
Citibank T&T Limited<br />
Republic Bank Limited<br />
First Citizens Bank Limited<br />
Scotiabank T&T Limited<br />
Intercommercial Bank Limited<br />
Central Bank <strong>of</strong> <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago<br />
UWI, St. Augustine
Workshops 2009<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Institute</strong> conducted several well attended workshops throughout this year. We would like to thank all participants for their attendance<br />
<strong>and</strong> look forward to another year <strong>of</strong> successful workshops.<br />
Report Writing for Investigators / Security Personnel -<br />
presenter Darrin Carmichael<br />
<strong>The</strong> New Financial Institutions Act - presenter<br />
Mrs. Donna Fyfe<br />
Interviewing Techniques to Detect Fraudulent<br />
Behavior - presenter Darrin Carmichael<br />
<strong>The</strong> Golden Years - Planning for Successful<br />
Retirement - presenters<br />
Dr. Jean Griffith , Garth Thomas &<br />
Dr. Ahamah Rahmad<br />
Establishing an Effective Audit Committee - presenter<br />
Rabindradath Lackhan<br />
Effective Internal Auditing <strong>of</strong> State Enterprises -<br />
presenter Rabindradath Lackhan<br />
Credit Analysis Techniques - presenters<br />
Prakash Ramlakhan & Jwala Rambarran<br />
Retirement Planning - presenters<br />
Dr. Patricia Elder, Ms. Elizabeth Austin <strong>and</strong> Mr. Leslie<br />
Mohammed<br />
In-House Training Workshops<br />
Workshop Recap<br />
Topic Outline<br />
Topics presented for workshops can be adapted for in-house training purposes.<br />
This course explored a number <strong>of</strong> effective investigative report writing<br />
techniques that apply across a wide range <strong>of</strong> disciplines including major<br />
incident reporting.<br />
This training program was designed for compliance, legal <strong>and</strong> operations<br />
personnel within the Financial Services Sector.<br />
This workshop provided participants with a working insight into the planning,<br />
preparing <strong>and</strong> conducting <strong>of</strong> an investigative interview.<br />
Participants were provided with an appreciation <strong>of</strong> the psychological<br />
adjustment to retirement; they were also introduced to various skills to cope<br />
with the changes <strong>and</strong> challenges associated with retirement. Participants<br />
were also introduced to the economic dynamics <strong>of</strong> retirement <strong>and</strong> the<br />
relationship between income <strong>and</strong> capital <strong>and</strong> the methods used to critically<br />
evaluate investment options available <strong>and</strong> appraise their risk/return ratios.<br />
This workshop addressed the following: Governance, Composition <strong>of</strong> an<br />
Audit Committee, Appointment <strong>of</strong> Committee Members <strong>and</strong> Responsibilities<br />
<strong>and</strong> Duties.<br />
<strong>The</strong> purpose <strong>of</strong> this workshop was to provide auditors <strong>and</strong> members <strong>of</strong><br />
independent Audit Committees with the knowledge <strong>and</strong> skills necessary to<br />
establish effective policies <strong>and</strong> procedures.<br />
This two-day training program enabled participants to examine the issues<br />
involved in credit to retail, small business <strong>and</strong> commercial borrowers.<br />
Participants were provided with the tools to successfully adjust to retirement.<br />
<strong>The</strong>y learned skills to cope with the changes <strong>and</strong> challenges associated with<br />
retirement; gained an underst<strong>and</strong>ing <strong>of</strong> economic dynamics <strong>of</strong> retirement <strong>and</strong><br />
the relationship between income <strong>and</strong> capital. Participants also understood<br />
how to critically evaluate investment options available <strong>and</strong> appraise their<br />
risk/return ratios.<br />
5
Upcoming Workshops 2010<br />
<strong>The</strong> Workshop Schedule for 2010 will be provided in a subsequent news bulletin.<br />
Studying Tips<br />
Listed below are strategies to improve your study habits <strong>and</strong> study<br />
methods.<br />
Study in Short, Frequent Sessions.<br />
It has been proven that short bursts <strong>of</strong> concentration repeated<br />
frequently are much more effective than one long session. So, even<br />
if you only have 10 minutes, DO IT. Take a break. <strong>The</strong>n study<br />
another 10 minutes. This “distributed learning” approach is highly<br />
efficient because it honors the way the brain likes to work. <strong>The</strong> brain<br />
needs recovery <strong>and</strong> recharging time for “protein synthesis.” <strong>The</strong><br />
rest periods are when your brain assimilates your effort. This is a<br />
powerful tool which many teachers do not acknowledge. To sit <strong>and</strong><br />
study for hours <strong>and</strong> hours is not only boring; it creates fatigue,<br />
stress, <strong>and</strong> distraction. You cannot learn if you are fatigued,<br />
stressed, <strong>and</strong> distracted!<br />
Take Guilt-Free Days <strong>of</strong> Rest.<br />
This follows the same principle as above, but on a longer, daily time<br />
cycle. <strong>The</strong> reason for resting is to refresh oneself. However, if you<br />
feel guilty (“I really should be studying”) then your precious rest<br />
period has been used to create more stress. <strong>The</strong> brain will not<br />
absorb new data if it is stressed. On days <strong>of</strong>f from studying, really<br />
enjoy yourself <strong>and</strong> do not feel bad about not studying.<br />
Honor Your Emotional State.<br />
Do not study if you are tired, angry, distracted, or in a hurry. When<br />
the brain is relaxed, it is like a sponge <strong>and</strong> it naturally absorbs data<br />
without effort. If you are emotionally stressed, your brain literally<br />
repels data. Forcing yourself to sit <strong>and</strong> study when your mind is on<br />
other things is a complete waste <strong>of</strong> time!<br />
Review the Same Day.<br />
When you learn something new, try to go over the points the same<br />
day. If you wait a few days <strong>and</strong> then make efforts to review the<br />
material, it will seem much less familiar. However, a quick review<br />
later in the day will tend to cement the information into your brain so<br />
that the next “<strong>of</strong>ficial” study session, you will recognize it <strong>and</strong> it will<br />
seem easy.<br />
6<br />
Observe the Natural Learning Sequence.<br />
Think <strong>of</strong> the activities you did when you were in nursery school.<br />
Using your whole arm, you probably performed the song that goes:<br />
“Put your right h<strong>and</strong> in, Put your right h<strong>and</strong> out.” <strong>The</strong>n, in<br />
kindergarten, using your h<strong>and</strong>, you might have been asked to draw<br />
lines or circles with crayons. Later, in first grade, now holding the<br />
pencil with your fingers, you drew smaller lines <strong>and</strong> circles to<br />
create letters. Believe it or not, this natural learning sequence,<br />
moving from large to small, coarse to fine, still remains effective<br />
even though we are now older. When you study, if you try first to<br />
grasp the big picture <strong>and</strong> then fill in the details, you <strong>of</strong>ten have a<br />
more likely chance <strong>of</strong> success.<br />
Use Exaggeration.<br />
Why does a baseball batter warm up by swinging two or three<br />
bats? Why do runners sometimes strap lead weights to their legs?<br />
In both cases, exaggeration during practice makes the final result<br />
seem easy. This concept can be applied to studying anything. For<br />
example, if you are studying spelling, exaggerate the sound <strong>of</strong> the<br />
letters to help to remember them. So for studying purposes,<br />
“naive” would be pronounced “NAY-IVY.” By getting used to this<br />
exaggerated pronunciation, the correct spelling seems obvious.<br />
Prepare Your Study Environment.<br />
If you require certain elements in your environment to help you<br />
study, try to always make these a priority. For example, do you<br />
need special lighting, silence, music, privacy, available snacks,<br />
etc.? Pay attention to what works for you <strong>and</strong> repeat it each time<br />
you study for best success.<br />
Respect “Brain Fade.”<br />
It is normal for the brain to have an attrition rate <strong>and</strong> to forget<br />
things. This does not mean that you are stupid! Instead <strong>of</strong> getting<br />
mad about this fact, you should expect it <strong>and</strong> deal with it<br />
accordingly. See your brain as depositing layers <strong>of</strong> knowledge. As<br />
you place more information on top, the lower levels become older<br />
<strong>and</strong> less available to your immediate recall. <strong>The</strong> trick here is simply<br />
to review. Since we can anticipate the eventual fading <strong>of</strong> our<br />
memory, creating a review aspect to our study session will solve<br />
the problem. Once every two or three study sessions, simply
Studying Tips (continued)<br />
review older material that you will still need to remember. <strong>Of</strong>ten, a quick overview is sufficient. Sometimes, a complete detailed study<br />
session <strong>of</strong> the older material is required. “Brain fade” is completely normal. (Unless you are gifted with a photographic memory, which is<br />
extremely rare.)<br />
Create a Study Routine.<br />
Generally, if you schedule certain times <strong>of</strong> the day to study, you will get into a routine <strong>and</strong> accomplish more. If you just “fit it in” during your<br />
day, chances are that there will never be any time. An effective way to do this is to literally mark it down in your date book calendar as if you<br />
have an appointment, like going to the doctor. For example: “Tuesday 3 - 4:30 P.M. — Study.”<br />
Set Reasonable Goals.<br />
One <strong>of</strong> the main reasons people do not reach their goals is because they set them too high. If you set goals that are manageable, even if<br />
they seem too simple, you get in the habit <strong>of</strong> accomplishing them <strong>and</strong> gradually you can set higher goals. Also, recognize the difference<br />
between long-term <strong>and</strong> short-term goals. Set your vision on the long-term dream, but your day-to-day activity should be focused<br />
exclusively on the short-term, enabling steps.<br />
Avoid the Frustration Enemy.<br />
Ironically, the quicker the person’s nervous system, the faster they learn. Yet, this fast nervous system also works overtime in being selfcritical.<br />
So they are the ones who always think they aren’t going fast enough! In contrast, the “Type B,” less intense person who learns<br />
slower yet is more self-accepting, ends up ultimately learning the material in a shorter period <strong>of</strong> time. This is because he/she doesn’t<br />
waste energy blocking, getting upset, <strong>and</strong> thinking that they’re not good enough — they simply keep moving forward at a slower (but unblocked)<br />
pace.<br />
Article by Howard Richman <strong>of</strong> Sound Feelings Publishing, Tarzana, California.<br />
IBAF’s Library<br />
Books for Sale, Rental <strong>and</strong> Repurchase<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Institute</strong> has a number <strong>of</strong> texts for sale for both the Diploma in<br />
<strong>Banking</strong> <strong>and</strong> the Certificate for Financial Advisors Programmes.<br />
For students pursuing the Cert.FA Paper 1, <strong>The</strong> <strong>Institute</strong> has available<br />
the “Principles <strong>of</strong> Managerial <strong>Finance</strong>” by Lawrence J. Gitman, San<br />
Diego State University. This text is extremely helpful for the Time<br />
Value <strong>of</strong> Money Section.<br />
We also operate a book rental service whereby students can rent text<br />
books applicable to their course <strong>of</strong> study. <strong>The</strong> cost to rent a text book is<br />
$300.00 with a minimum period <strong>of</strong> 2 ½ months. Books are rented on<br />
the underst<strong>and</strong>ing that they are returned in good condition, failing<br />
which the student will be responsible for paying the full cost <strong>of</strong> the<br />
textbook as per signed rental agreement. Please note that books are<br />
loaned on “a first come first served basis”.<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Institute</strong> will be willing to repurchase<br />
current text books that are in good<br />
condition from students who have<br />
completed their course <strong>of</strong> study.<br />
7<br />
Additional Reference Materials<br />
<strong>The</strong> following reference books that are helpful with the various study<br />
modules are available <strong>and</strong> can be borrowed from <strong>The</strong> <strong>Institute</strong>’s<br />
Library.<br />
Accounting for <strong>Banking</strong> Students by J.R. Edwards / M.J. Mellett 4th Edition<br />
Company Accounts by Maurice Pendlebury / Roger Groves 4th Edition<br />
Financial Planning-Fundamentals CFP- Education program Course 1 2nd<br />
Edition<br />
Information Technology CFSP - Study Text by Phillip Fawcett AICB<br />
Lending CFSP- Study Text by Robert Souster FCIB<br />
Marketing, Sales & Customer Services by Neil Russell- Jones 2nd Edition<br />
Management <strong>of</strong> Information Technology by Phil Fawcett & Graham Flower<br />
<strong>The</strong> Monetary& Financial System by David Goacher 5TH Edition<br />
<strong>The</strong> Financial Environment by David Bridgehouse & Janet Honitor<br />
Underst<strong>and</strong>ing Accounts by F.A.J. Couldery 2nd Edition<br />
We encourage all to utilise our library services.
Students Corner<br />
Examination Dates<br />
&<br />
Registration Deadlines<br />
CERTIFICATE FOR FINANCIAL ADVISORS<br />
Examination Date: April 17th, 2010<br />
Registration Deadline: January 22nd, 2010<br />
Examination Date: August 14th, 2010<br />
Registration Deadline: May 21, 2010<br />
Examination Date: December 4th, 2010<br />
Registration Deadline: September 23rd, 2010<br />
N.B. EXAMINATIONS ARE HELD ON SATURDAYS ONLY<br />
DIPLOMA IN BANKING<br />
Examination Period: May 10th - 14th, 2010<br />
Registration Deadline: March 26th, 2010<br />
Examination Period: Nov 8th - 12th, 2010<br />
Registration Deadline: September 17th, 2009<br />
N.B. EXAMINATIONS ARE HELD MONDAY - FRIDAY<br />
8<br />
IBAF’s Website: www.ibaf.org.tt<br />
We have upgraded our system <strong>and</strong> have advised students <strong>of</strong> their<br />
new passwords which will allow access to the website to obtain<br />
their examination results.<br />
New students will be provided with their passwords in their<br />
membership acceptance letters. We would like to remind all<br />
students that it is their responsibility to protect their passwords<br />
safely.<br />
Our website continues to provide a wealth <strong>of</strong> information including,<br />
our programmes’ prospectus, registration forms <strong>and</strong> brochures, as<br />
well as, information on upcoming workshops, seminars <strong>and</strong><br />
resource links to <strong>The</strong> Central Bank <strong>of</strong> <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong> Tobago along<br />
with all the commercial banks.<br />
We urge all students to utilize the Central Bank <strong>of</strong> <strong>Trinidad</strong> <strong>and</strong><br />
Tobago website as it provides information which could be used in<br />
the preparation for exam.<br />
What’s next?<br />
<strong>The</strong> <strong>Institute</strong> is at present in the process<br />
<strong>of</strong> exp<strong>and</strong>ing the Cert FA F A Programme to<br />
include optional modules in Mutual Funds<br />
<strong>and</strong> Securities.<br />
Stay tuned for more on this.