New National Coordinator Appointed To Lead National Financial Literacy Programme

The Ministry of Energy and Business has appointed finance professional Fabian Bartlett as the new National Coordinator of the National Financial Literacy Programme (NFLP). His appointment took effect in May 2025.

Mr. Bartlett brings to the role over 20 years of corporate experience, with academic credentials that include an associate degree in Finance and Investment, a bachelor’s degree in Banking and Finance, and a master’s in Financial Sector Management. He has held senior leadership positions across public and private institutions, and previously served as a facilitator within the NFLP’s FLITE component in schools.

Now at the helm of the programme, Mr. Bartlett is focused on taking the initiative to the next level, through strengthened partnerships, national engagement, and strategic repositioning. He believes that financial literacy must be accessible and relevant to every Barbadian, not just those in vulnerable categories.

“When people think of financial literacy, they often associate it with the poor or underprivileged,” he explained. “But the truth is, financial literacy is not just for those below the breadline…it’s for all walks of life. Businesses need it. Parents need it. Students need it. Retirees need it. It just looks different depending on who you are.”

He emphasised that business owners, for instance, need support with understanding taxes, managing accounts, and navigating statutory compliance; all key areas where the NFLP will be positioned to help. He also highlighted the value of stakeholder partnerships, naming entities such as FundAccess, the Trust Loan Fund, the Small Business Association, ICAB, and the Barbados Chamber of Commerce as essential collaborators.

Under his leadership, the programme will adopt the unifying slogan: “Learn it. Live it. Lead it.”

“In schools, we’re creating the foundation to learn it. But we also want our youth and communities to live it, applying real-world tools like budgeting, saving, and exploring investments and insurance from an early age. Ultimately, we want leaders in business and society to lead it, to embody and advocate for strong financial principles that empower others,” Mr. Bartlett shared.

A key focus going forward will be streamlining the NFLP’s structure and enhancing its impact through intentional public and private sector collaboration. Mr. Bartlett noted that financial literacy should begin from as early as nursery school and be reinforced throughout all stages of life.

“If we teach our children to count at two or three years old, we can teach them the basics of money at the same age. Once financial literacy becomes embedded in our culture, we’ll begin to see a shift; people will become more prudent, moreempowered, and better equipped to contribute to national development,” he proffered.

Deputy Permanent Secretary responsible for Projects in the Ministry of Energy and Business, Keisha Reid, offered her endorsement of the appointment, stating:

“Fabian brings a fresh and innovative energy to the National Financial Literacy Programme. His vision, strategic mindset, and professional leadership style have already begun to inspire a new wave of momentum, and we are confident that he will steer the programme to even greater national relevance and impact.”

Mr. Bartlett also highly praised the current NFLP team, noting their “phenomenal work” particularly in the schools, but emphasised the need to scale up. 

“It’s time to go further. We’ve laid a solid foundation, but now it’s about building a national movement, one that gives every Barbadian the tools to live with confidence, clarity, and control when it comes to their finances.” (PR/GIS)