The major component of International’s community and social spending has to date been focused on the local communities of Jersey and the Isle of Man, as a result of Standard Bank being a relatively major employer on these two islands. Remaining committed to its South African roots, the Jersey and Isle of Man operations have sponsored activities that have an African connection, or that otherwise contribute to the local community, particularly where children benefit.

The largest annual event with this aim is the Help an African Schoolchild North Coast Charity Challenge, a 20-mile (about 32 kilometres) walk along the north coast of Jersey to raise funds for the Tetekela Centre, a day-care centre for vulnerable street children in northern Zambia. Financial support was also provided to the Jersey leg of an international tour of the Drakensberg Boys’ Choir, with the proceeds aiding an island charity for adults suffering from mental health disorders. We also contribute regularly to the U16 Cricket Festival held in Jersey each summer. Overall, Standard Bank’s offshore group has been involved with more than 15 different sponsorships in 2004.

Standard Bank is also proud to have been a lead sponsor to the 2004 Emerging Markets Benefit Ball, a substantial annual fundraising event held in central London. The 2004 ball supported the works of three charities focused on care for vulnerable and needy children: Cotlands in South Africa; Task Brazil in Brazil; and ChildHope in the UK.