Insurance Institute of Barbados

It’s finally here.
Fifty years ago, a vision began — small in size, but bold in purpose.
Since then, the Insurance Institute of Barbados has shaped careers, strengthened an industry and helped build professional confidence across generations.
Classrooms changed. Faces changed. The world changed.
But the commitment to learning never did.

Every student who studied late.
Every tutor who gave their time.
Every Director who offered guidance.
Every staff member who worked behind the scenes.
Every member who believed in the value of professionalism —
together, you built this legacy.

Today is more than an anniversary. It is a celebration of people, perseverance and purpose.

50 years behind us. A future still ahead.

Happy 50th Anniversary.

Thank you for being part of our story.

Nearly There!
For decades, the Insurance Institute of Barbados has promoted not only professional knowledge but also responsible workplace practices. Seminars like this helped equip industry professionals with the awareness and skills needed to prevent loss, protect people and strengthen organisations.

Another step in building safer workplaces through education.

Over the years, our Awards Ceremonies have featured many wonderful entertainers who enriched the experience for our members and graduates.

Among the most memorable was the late, great storyteller Alfred Pragnell, whose humour and powerful narratives brought warmth, laughter and Caribbean spirit to the occasion. We fondly remember his contribution to the life of the Institute and the joy he shared with our audience.

If you are a member of the Insurance Institute of Barbados, join us as we celebrate our 50th Anniversary at our AGM and Luncheon.

📅 Tuesday, February 24, 2026
🕙 10:00 a.m.
📍 Radisson Aquatica Resort Barbados

Come be part of this historic milestone as we reflect on our journey and look ahead to the future together. We look forward to celebrating with you! 💙

Annual General Meeting - September 23rd, 1987
As we count down to our 50th Anniversary, we reflect on moments like this — when members gathered to guide the direction and growth of the Insurance Institute of Barbados.
Each AGM represents leadership, stewardship and commitment to advancing professional standards within the industry. The conversations held then helped shape the Institute we proudly celebrate today.

Just a few more days to 50 years strong.

Day 45 to 50 Years
Here, one of our early graduates is pictured collecting a gift — a moment of pride and accomplishment.
For 50 years, the IIB has celebrated the achievements of our students, supporting their growth from learners to qualified professionals. Every certificate, every milestone, every success contributes to the legacy we continue to build.
L-R: Adrian Layne, David Alleyne, Jean Cobham

Day 44 to 50 Years
Eddie Gamlen, a Chartered Insurance Institute (CII) tutor, delivered the IIB’s first one-week Consequential Loss Insurance course in June 1981.
He also established a $100 examination prize, initially awarded to the student achieving the highest mark in any BDI examination, and personally funded it each year until his passing. The prize later evolved into an annual memorial award, with sponsorship eventually taken over by a local insurance company.

Day 43 to 50 Years
In the early years of the Insurance Institute of Barbados, representatives of the Chartered Insurance Institute presented textbooks to support some of the first training courses offered by the IIB.

While we can only identify two of the five individuals captured in this photo, the moment itself reflects an important partnership that helped establish the professional standards on which the Institute was built.

If you recognise anyone in this image, we’d love you to share their names in the comments and help us preserve our history. 💙