Cook Islands’ largest private sector organisation recognised and rewarded its long serving staff at a special event this month.

CITC (Cook Islands Trading Corporation) is the country’s biggest employer outside of government with over 400 staff.

In 2010, CITC started the Long Service Awards to recognise and show appreciation to staff who have completed five, 10, 15, 20, 25 years and more of service. These events are usually held twice a year.

This year the CITC awards and achievements event to thank employees for their hard work, dedication and commitment over the years, was celebrated with a presentation at the Coastal Kitchen in Tupapa on Tuesday, October 18.

The executive chairman of CITC, Trevor Clarke presented each recipient with a certificate and gift voucher.

Georgina Willie, who has been with CITC for 10 years, said: “It is humbling to be acknowledged and recognised by the company.”

Willie started as a sales assistant and is now the inventory supervisor. The upskilling and change in roles are some of the high points she has experienced being in the company.

“Having to be multi-skilled is a bonus,” she added.

CITC engages in numerous community projects, these include sporting, cultural, educational and environmental activities.

Willie also highlighted being part of the team who created the first Christmas window display for all the stores in the town strip and paddling in the Corporate Oe Vaka 2020, among her best moments with CITC.

“All my years here have been memorable. I’m looking forward to making more,” said Willie.

CITC operates as an importer, distributor, wholesaler and retailer of a wide variety of products.

Following are the 2022 CITC Long Service recipients. Staff who have served 25 Years - Benji Rairoa, Emily Tangimetua, Mavis Aumetua-Nicholas, Helen Matheson and Gaye Whitta. 20 Years - Tuakana Charlie; 15 Years - Noreen Ngametua, Paul Akava, Ben Areai; 10 Years - Ngamata Tutai, Louisa Tokari, Inangaro Tuao Rere, Teremoana Teina, Viviana Hosking, Pofitu Moui, Randy Taura, Nga Turua, Gina Willie, Jamie Riro, Hannah Ngametua; 5 Years - Michelle Delmo, Peta Haramoana, Ngamata Puiri, Mata Hafoka, Junior Ruarau, Ngatokorua William, Timoti Punga, Jijvana Tuaputa, Bettina Akania and Clerk Repoama.