News
TCIG Continues to Recogniza its Heroes During Social Workers Month – March 2015
Providenciales, 01 Apr 2015 – As the Department of Social Development and Gender Affairs, Ministry of Environment and Home Affairs, continues to recognize Social Work Month 2015, we celebrate the dedicated and committed Social Workers for the roles they have played in the Turks and Caicos Islands in “Paving the way for change”.
The question was asked these serving officers “Why social work?” It is amazing to see that the most common factor is the desire to help others and bring about change in the communities they live and serve.
These are the Social Workers of the Turks and Caicos Islands:
Nicole Wint
Social Worker, South Caicos
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I believe it was Confucius who said “If you choose a job you love, you will never have to work a day in your life.” This is one philosophy that had stuck with me throughout my Social Work Career. The one thing I have always known I would like to do with my life is to assist others and intercede on their behalf.
I was the youngest one in my class in College. People habitually asked me what I knew about Social Work being so young. Sometimes I would ask myself the same question but after realizing that my zeal to mediate on the behalf of others would not diminish, I knew I had chosen the right path.
Having spent the last eight years as a professional Social Worker, I realize more each day that I am fulfilling my purpose. I am a better person due to my profession. I have learned how to be humble and put the needs of others before my own. Frankly, I would not have it any other way.
Olivia Daye
Senior Social Worker, Providenciales
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I entered the Social Work profession out of a genuine desire to improve the lives of others. Making a difference in someone’s life, no matter how small or how great has always been important to me. As a child growing up, my first career choice was to become a medical doctor and as such, I was mentored by one. I observed my mentor giving of herself to the children of a Children’s Home that was located in close proximity to where she had her private practice. She got so involved to the point where she adopted two of the children from the home.
My parents also were highly involved in the nurturing of other children and caring for persons in need within our community. The influence of these positive role models in my life inspired me to make a difference in the lives of others. Working with different personalities of varying background on a day-to day basis has proven to be challenging and sometimes overwhelming but no doubt rewarding. For me, my work is not just an interest but a divine calling. I have been in this profession for 13 years and in spite of the challenges encountered, I am still very passionate about improving the lives of others.
Jaala Kennedy
Social Worker, Grand Turk
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I reflect on the theme for Social Work Month 2015 “Pave the way for Change” and my reason for pursuing the profession of Social Work. I realized that today it is somewhat different from what drove me to become a social worker ten years ago.
I initially wanted to empower others. Today I have decided to continue striving in this noble profession because it allows me the opportunity to be empowered myself.
The clients I have served and encountered as a Social Worker have amazed me by their unexplainable bravery to fight the odds they daily face by choosing to
Believe despite their persecutions
Dream beyond their current situations
Live in spite of their limitations
I have recently decided to broaden my prospective and adopt the mindset of many I serve and have dared to believe, dream and live. These are the first three steps needed in paving the way for change in this profession and the world in which we live.
Tania Allen-Lewis
Senior Social Worker, Grand Turk
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To say that Social Work was my first area of interest as a Profession would be disingenuous because my desire was to become a Psychologist. Although this desire was not actualized and has not vanished, I strongly believe that it was my destiny to become a part of the Social Work Profession because of the innate qualities that makes me who I am
Matthew 22:14 says that “Many are called but few are chosen”. Throughout my eight years of experience as a Social Worker, there is no doubt in my mind that one has to be chosen for such a Profession as this. I have always been of the opinion that if everyone contributes positively in the communities they live and help their fellow men by way of giving of themselves and their support, this world will be a better place.
The theme for Social Work Month 2015 “Social Work pave the way for change” not only encompasses what Social Workers have done to bring about change in their communities but also the positive changes brought about within all of us.
Tiffany Thomas-Browne
Deputy Director, Grand Turk
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I first became fascinated with the field of Social Work by observing a Social Worker who was practicing and working directly in the field. I was amazed and excited with the way she conducted investigations, interviews, interacted and engaged the client on a child abuse case.
I got my foot wet and was introduced to this field as a Clerical Officer/Welfare Assistant in South Caicos in 1999. I grew a keen interest and became inquisitive on how to become a Social Worker. I observed that there were certain skills that one must possess including: compassion, empathy, problem solving, confidentiality, communication and an overall passion and desire to help people help themselves.
What’s most fulfilling about my career is being able to connect, engage and get through to clients; seeing clients follow through with services and eventually leave the system; and providing counseling, mentoring and long-standing programs. We will continue to pave the way for change.
Are you committed to our cause? If so, join us! Become a Social Worker and begin paving the way for change.
News
The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.
Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.
“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.
Cruise Sector
In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025.
The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
Marketing Shows
As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.
The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.
Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.
Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels
“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.
Awards & Recognition
Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.
The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
About Experience Turks and Caicos
Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort
Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.
About the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:
- Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
- Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
- The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.
Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
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Grand Turk – slow travel with us
North Caicos – Correy Forbes
South Caicos Sail Rock
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.
The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.
Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.
To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.
Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”
This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.
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Caribbean News
Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
Port of Spain, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (February 24, 2026) — Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, recently served as Gold-Level Partner of the two-day Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF), themed “The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience”.
The Digital Divide is of particular interest to Liberty Caribbean and is being addressed through its Charitable Foundation across the region. Low broadband penetration in the Caribbean contributes to diminished opportunities for individuals, communities, and local economies, but with the support of funding partners, this gap can be addressed through a comprehensive programme – JUMP – that focuses on providing access, devices, and digital skills.
“Liberty Caribbean was proud to serve as Gold-Level Partner of the TTIGF because the conversations taking place here shape key digital
policies for multiple stakeholders,” said Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager, Flow Trinidad.
“As technology accelerates at an unprecedented pace, we must ensure that innovation strengthens our societies rather than fragments them. The theme, ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ speaks directly to the work we do every day: building networks that are not only fast and reliable, but secure, inclusive and future-ready.”
Across the Caribbean, the digital divide remains one of the most pressing barriers to equitable growth. Low broadband penetration limits access to education, entrepreneurship and essential services, and that is why we are deeply committed to closing this gap.
Through the Liberty Caribbean Charitable Foundation and initiatives like the JUMP Programme, the company is expanding access to technology, affordable connectivity and digital skills training so that individuals and communities are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.
Martin-Sulgan further stated “at Liberty Caribbean, we believe progress and responsibility must move in lock step. By investing in resilient networks, inclusive programmes and trusted partnerships, we are helping to build a Caribbean that is innovative, secure and prepared for the opportunities ahead.”
Topics covered during the Forum, with over 140 participants, included “Securing Critical Infrastructure”, Integrating AI into Digital Transformation”, “The Digital Divide”, The Human Cost of Innovation – Mental Health and Well-being in the Digital Age’, and AI, Cyber Resilience and Regional Innovation”.
Focused on the underlying mandate of the Conference theme thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, technologists, researchers, and community stakeholders were invited to explore how countries can evolve boldly without compromising values or long-term stability.
Photo Caption:
TTIGF – l-r Darren Campo, Regulatory & Compliance Officer; Yolande Agard-Simmons, Senior Manager Communications; and Kevon Swift, Senior Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs of Flow Trinidad in attendance at the Post Event Mixer at Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Head Office in St Clair, Port of Spain
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News3 days agoDDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop
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News1 week agoMulti-Agency Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays
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Caribbean News4 days agoLiberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
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News3 days agoThe Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals