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.
PUBLIC NOTICE
FROM THE TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS BORDER FORCE
The Turks and Caicos Islands (TCI) Border Force informs the yachting community and marina operators of a new requirement for using the SailClear platform. Effective 1 May 2024, the Caribbean Customs Law Enforcement Council (CCLEC) implemented a $25 annual subscription fee for SailClear users. This fee allows unlimited application submissions, helps improve service quality, and expands SailClear’s capabilities.
SailClear, introduced by the TCI Customs Department in February 2023, provides a secure and efficient platform for submitting electronic customs declarations. The annual subscription ensures continued investment in maintaining rigorous service standards including system reliability and efficient processing of notifications implement upgrades and to expand the services to additional maritime jurisdictions.
Pleasure craft operators are reminded that electronic pre-arrival and pre-departure notifications via SailClear are mandatory. The master of a vessel must electronically submit a Sailclear notification to Border Force at least 24 hours prior to the vessel’s estimated time of arrival at a port. Additionally, before departing, the master must submit a Sailclear clearance notification to Border Force at least 24 hours prior to the estimated departure time.
Failure to comply with these requirements constitutes an offence under the Customs Ordinance. Those found guilty of this offence will be subjected to a fine of $5000.
Important Reminder for Yacht and Watercraft Owners:
- Non-Registered Users: SailClear use is enforceable under section 5 of the Customs (Pleasure Craft) (Amendment) Direction 2022 (Legal Notice 82 of 2022). For those not yet subscribed to SailClear, visit sailclear.com and click “Subscribe Here” to follow the registration process.
- Pre-Arrival and Pre-Departure Notifications: All pleasure craft owners arriving or departing the Turks and Caicos Islands must submit pre-arrival/departure notifications to Border Force through SailClear. Failure to submit electronic notifications via SailClear constitutes an offense under the Customs Ordinance.
- For Inquiries: Contact support@cclec.org for further information or assistance.
This update ensures the continued efficiency and reliability of the SailClear platform, allowing for a seamless customs clearance experience for the yachting community in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
For all media enquiries, please contact:
Carlencia Lightbourne
Public Relations and Communications Officer
KINGSTON, September 18 (JIS): National Housing Trust (NHT) contributors and mortgagors affected by Hurricane Beryl are being reminded to apply for the organisation’s post-hurricane peril moratorium by September 30.
Assistant General Manager of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs, Dwayne Berbick, told JIS News that the newly introduced initiative is designed to offer financial relief to those who experience property damage or economic hardship as a result of natural disasters.
Under this arrangement, eligible individuals can temporarily suspend their monthly mortgage payments, which is crucial support during the recovery process.
The duration of the moratorium is tailored to individual circumstances, with a maximum period of up to six months.
“We understand that life happens, and circumstances of individuals may change from time to time. The NHT has made special resources available for individuals who are making applications for any of our [relief] initiatives. We are looking out for them, and we will expedite the applications to ensure that the process goes as quickly and smoothly as possible,” Mr. Berbick said.
The NHT’s special mortgage moratorium is accessible to all affected parties, including those who have previously benefited from other NHT Loan facilities.
Mr. Berbick underscored that this inclusive approach will ensure that everyone who needs assistance can receive it.
Applicants are required to complete an application form and submit a valid government-issued identification and Tax Registration Number, along with additional documents where applicable. These include photographs of property damage, proof of reduced income, or proof of unemployment.
Mr. Berbick is urging all eligible individuals to act promptly to secure the support they need.
The post-hurricane peril moratorium forms part of the NHT’s wider strategy to provide relief and support to contributors and mortgagors during challenging times. Other initiatives include the Special Home Improvement Loan and Disaster Grant.
For more information on how to apply for this or other relief options, persons can visit the nearest NHT office or the entity’s website at www.nht.gov.jm.
CONTACT: ROCHEDA BARTLEY
PHOTO CAPTION: Assistant General Manager of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs at the National Housing Trust, Dwayne Berbick.
Photo: Adrian Walker
CTO Secretary-General Dona Regis-Prosper sits with the top three contestants (l-r), Khari Gonsalves of St. Kitts, Keyana Warner of Nevis, and Anthurium Lewis of Tobago, while other youth congress participants look on.
GRAND CAYMAN, Cayman Islands – Keyana Warner, the Junior Minister of Tourism from Nevis, has been crowned the winner of the 20th Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) Tropical Shipping Regional Tourism Youth Congress. Warner, a student from Charlestown Secondary School, secured the victory following an outstanding presentation on Thursday at The Westin Grand Cayman Seven Mile Beach Resort & Spa.
The Congress, a highlight of the CTO State of the Tourism Industry Conference (SOTIC) and held under the theme “Caribbean Tourism: Through the Eyes of Tomorrow”, featured 12 talented young tourism advocates from across the Caribbean. These young minds shared their innovative ideas and passion for the future of the region’s tourism industry, exploring topics such as adventure tourism, solo travel, collaboration across cultures, and the blue economy.
Anthurium Lewis of Bishop’s High School in Tobago claimed second place, while Khari Gonsalves of Basseterre High School in St. Kitts secured third place.
“The Congress, along with the activities leading up to this event, plays a crucial role in introducing the next generation to the significant impact tourism has on our region,” said Master of Ceremonies Sharon Banfield-Bovell, CTO’s Director of Resource Mobilization and Development. “It is not just a competition; it is a gateway to nurturing the next generation of tourism advocates and innovators who will shape the future of the Caribbean tourism industry.”
The week leading up to the Congress saw the junior ministers of tourism engage in several workshops, including a VR/AR masterclass facilitated by Ed and Claudia Limon, and a workshop exploring Cruise Tourism Awareness and Careers in the Cruise Sector facilitated by Beth Hatt of Aquila Center for Cruise Excellence.
udges for the Congress Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority; Aquila’s Beth Hatt; and Vanessa Ledesma, Acting CEO and Director General of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association, are all smiles in the Cayman Islands.
The 2024 Regional Tourism Youth Congress received generous support from the Government of the Cayman Islands, title sponsor Tropical Shipping, Carnival Corporation & plc in partnership with Acordis International Corp, Winged Whale Media, and Breeze Travel Solutions. This event provided a valuable platform for young people to connect with industry professionals, gain experience, and develop leadership skills.
The Congress was chaired by last year’s winner, Naomi Onwufuju of the British Virgin Islands.
Judges for the Congress were Aquila’s Beth Hatt; Colin James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority; and Vanessa Ledesma, Acting CEO and Director General of the Caribbean Hotel and Tourism Association.
Participating countries included Bahamas, Barbados, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Jamaica, Nevis, St. Eustatius, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Tobago, and Turks and Caicos Islands.
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