Turks and Caicos, March 22, 2025 – Today marks a historic milestone in Caribbean and world football as Sonia Fulford has been re-elected unopposed to the FIFA Council for an unprecedented third consecutive term. This remarkable achievement reaffirms her status as a trailblazer, being the first woman to hold these positions on both the FIFA and Concacaf Council for three successive terms.  Fulford was initially elected to the FIFA Council in 2013, ahead of the FIFA’s reform which introduced term limits of no more than three four-year terms, which makes Fulford the second longest-serving sitting member of the FIFA Council.

Fulford’s journey in football began on the field as a player for the Turks & Caicos Islands National Team. Her passion for the sport led her to serve as General Secretary of the Turks & Caicos Islands Football Association (TCIFA) in 2006 before being elected as its President in 2014. Over the years, she has become a formidable force in shaping the development of football in the Turks & Caicos Islands, the Caribbean and beyond.

Under her leadership, Fulford has been a relentless advocate for the growth and inclusivity of the sport, championing development programs and funding, increasing opportunities for women in football, and ensuring that smaller nations have a voice on the global stage. Her re-election is a testament to the trust and confidence placed in her by the footballing fraternity, recognizing her unwavering commitment to the sport’s progress.

Expressing gratitude for this significant moment, Fulford stated:                                                                                                                                                              “I am deeply honored and humbled by the confidence shown in me by my colleagues and the global football community. This journey has never been about personal accolades but about creating opportunities, fostering growth, and ensuring that football continues to unite and inspire. I extend my heartfelt thanks to the members and stakeholders who have supported me throughout the years. My gratitude also goes to my dedicated staff and the entire TCIFA family, present and past, who have made my job easier with their unwavering commitment. To my family, especially my husband Guadrvin Missick, your support has been my pillar of strength, and I share this achievement with you.”

Looking ahead, Fulford reaffirmed her pledge to continue her mission of empowering the people of the region, particularly women, and ensuring that Caribbean football continues to thrive on the world stage.

“This re-election is not just a victory for me but for the entire region. It is proof that our voices matter and that we have a seat at the highest levels of decision-making. I remain steadfast in my commitment to advocating for our region, fostering talent, and ensuring that football serves as a vehicle for positive change.”

Her re-election serves as a proud moment for the Caribbean and the Turks & Caicos Islands, highlighting the region’s growing influence in global football governance. The announcement was made during the 40th Concacaf Ordinary Congress, held on March 15, 2025, in Castries, St. Lucia. As she embarks on another term, the future of football in the region looks brighter than ever under her steadfast leadership.

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – A bold new chapter in financial empowerment has begun with the official launch of Turks and Caicos United Investment Ltd. (TCUI) on Tuesday, March 17th, during a special edition of Financially Speaking. This initiative is set to transform how Turks and Caicos Islanders—both at home and abroad—engage in wealth creation and economic growth.

Uniting Investors, Strengthening the Economy

TCUI is more than just an investment platform; it is a movement designed to unite and empower Turks and Caicos residents to take control of their financial future. By pooling resources, TCUI members will have access to strategic investment opportunities that foster economic sustainability, financial independence, and generational wealth.

“Our goal is to ensure that Turks and Caicos Islanders are at the forefront of economic development,” said Drexwell Seymour, Chairperson of TCUI. “Through collaboration and smart investing, we are creating a pathway for residents to build long-term financial security and preserve a legacy for future generations.”

A Vision for Prosperity

The idea for TCUI emerged after the Government’s announcement of a $1,000 cost-of-living relief stimulus. Instead of viewing the stimulus as a short-term fix, a group of more than 20 forward-thinking individuals came together to establish an organization that would provide lasting financial benefits. Their collective vision is to create an investment vehicle that allows Turks and Caicos Islanders to actively shape the nation’s financial landscape.

With an emphasis on community-driven investing, TCUI is positioning itself as a catalyst for economic transformation. The company aims to support ventures that not only yield strong financial returns but also contribute to the overall development and sustainability of the Turks and Caicos economy.

Meet the Leaders Behind TCUI

TCUI is backed by a strong leadership team committed to guiding the organization toward success:

• Drexwell Seymour – Chairperson
• Jena Janse – Deputy Chairperson
• Kendi Jones – Secretary
• Tekarrah Gardiner – Treasurer
• Ranekia Lightbourne Daley – Member & Liaison Relationship Director

How to Get Involved

TCUI is inviting residents of Turks and Caicos Islands and TCI citizens abroad to become part of this groundbreaking initiative. Whether you’re an experienced investor or new to the world of finance, TCUI offers a structured, community-driven approach to wealth-building that ensures every investor has a stake in the nation’s future.

To learn more about TCUI and how you can participate, visit www.tcunitedinvestment.com.

Deandrea Hamilton

Editor

Anguilla, March 22, 2025 – The new premier of Anguilla is historically, a woman, Cora Richardson-Hodge, who led her Anguilla United Front (AUF) to a dominating victory of at the polls in the February 26 General Election in the British Overseas territory; gaining four seats and 49% of the vote.

When she addressed the nation from the House of Assembly on Tuesday, March 11, 2025 as the newly sworn-in Premier, her focus was on commitments made on the campaign trail; to build a more inclusive, dynamic and sustainable Anguilla.

“Our primary goals include: economic diversification. We recognize the need to move beyond traditional industries, and by investing in areas like renewable energy, technology and agriculture we can create a more resilient economy that offers opportunities for all,” said Richardson-Hodge.

Young people are also a priority, said Premier Richardson-Hodge who reminded of the AUF’s ‘People First’ plan.

“Our youth are not just leaders of tomorrow; they are valuable contributors to our present and the architects of our future.  They are innovators, dreamers and change makers. However, for them to flourish, we must prioritize their needs and aspirations that is our People First agenda places their needs at the forefront.”

Mentorship programs are coming, so is investment in business ideas to broaden the commercial landscape of the island nation, she said.

“We will establish initiatives, that support young entrepreneurs in their business endeavours by providing mentorship programs, access to funding and training in business development.  We aim to foster a generation of entrepreneurs who can create jobs and drive economic growth in Anguilla.”

The Premier wants to modernise education and resuscitate healthcare for the 16,000 residents of Anguilla.

“We pledge to improve educational facilities and transform our healthcare services into institutions of which we can be proud.”

Responsible tourism is also prioritised for the new AUF Government administration.  Renewable Energy is elevated in the new regime, she said.

In her maiden speech, she informed Anguillans that their involvement and solidarity are essential.

“Governance is not just for the appointed, it is for every Anguillan, and we will establish regular forums for community feedback and consultation, ensuring that your voices guide our decisions.

To achieve these ambitious objectives, unity is essential.  We must come together, government officials, business leaders, civil society and most importantly, the people of Anguilla,” said the representative for Sandy Hill, a 15-year MP.

Premier Richardson-Hodge reached across the aisle with her words, inviting the members opposite her physically to be tied to a better Anguilla, bi-partisanly.

“It is time to transcend political divides and collaborate for the greater good.  Let us focus on what binds us together, our love for Anguilla and our committee for a brighter future for our families and our children.  And as we embark on this journey, I urge each one of you to join us in embracing this People’s first agenda.  Each one of us plays a vital role in shaping the future of Anguilla. Let us work side by side as partners in progress as we reclaim our narrative and craft a legacy that future generations will be proud of.”

The AUF won eight of the 11 seats with the outgoing Anguilla Progressive Movement (APM) headed by now former premier Dr Ellis Webster, winning the other three seats. Webster was among the victorious candidates for his party.