TCI News
TCI: Premier Delivers Remarks at the Caribbean Federation of Welfare Associations
#TurksandCaicos, May 22, 2018 – Providenciales – Opening with light humor and reflecting on their Theme “Fusing Ideas to Promote Standards and Unity in Regional Law Enforcement,” Premier Robinson shared a story of Caribbean nationals living in the UK and how fusing ideas, agreeing standards and sticking together achieve the outcome they all wanted.
See Highlights of Her Remarks Below:
I wish at the outset to welcome you to the Turks and Caicos Islands and trust that these days together be truly productive ones as you no doubt review your last year against your Organisations Vision and Objectives and that you are enthused and excited to take on a near year.
Until I received this Invitation, admittedly I was unaware of the Organisation. I researched your Website and saw where you were formed some years ago in the Bahamas by 9 countries. Your vision statement and objectives are noble but it must be more than that: it must be live and active.
Policing is a noble profession and you may be right up there with politicians who are needed but are more abused by those they are charged to take care of than any one else. Feelings of under-appreciation, in a too often thankless job, frustrated sometimes by the same Organisation we are a part of but expected to solve problems without the people the greatest partners we can both have. Too many are silent when things go right and whilst you do not work for praises, you think it would be good every now and then to hear “thank you”, thank you for the sacrifices you make, what you expose your family to. Job well done. Did I capture that right?
But what ought to keep you motivated? Love of job yes, but love of the same people…what a conundrum! Why? Because nothing is as satisfying as helping people, protecting people and doing your job well. Trust me, you are specially called to this field. Not any and everyone can be a Police. But just as important as the love of job and love of people, you, the Welfare Association ought to keep your Organisationmotivated. You must have your hand on the pulse of the Organisation: the members. They need your voice at the Table you sit. You must make it your business to know the collective as well as individual challenges and struggles. You must be allowed to do your job and you must meet with your members but also you must meet with your Governments. No Government wants or needs a Policing Body that is unhappy.
I note your mission:
Pillar 1: “To Collaboration and co-operation in the development of representation on behalf of its members”.
You here have taken on a more nobler role, that of helping your fellowmen by representing their cause. You must be bold in your role and carry out your duties without fear and favour. The welfare of persons who are charged with keeping the peace is not a slight thing. We need healthy (not just physically but mentally healthy) and happy Officers and that is in your hands.
But while the Welfare Association is responsible for the Police, it is equally important that each member realise that he/she is responsible for each other for whatever one of you do, reflects on all of you. Be honest, be fair and do your job.
I also charge those in higher ranks to do not be stumbling blocks or to be a reason why the local Associations are unable to represent effectively. It can only help the Organisation: boost morale and involvement with a greater flow of ideas from quarters who otherwise could not be heard. You must represent on issues even when they do not affect you.
Secondly I note that the second Pillar of your Mission is “To communicate with the ACCP, CARICOM and any other stake holders on matters brought to the attention of its executive and make recommendations”.
I challenge you to ensure that National Security – the threat to our region be a staple item on Caricom’s Agenda. You are in this respect the caretakers of our tourism product. The infiltration of weapons and unsavory characters is an issue for us all. Whilst we seem to all be moving towards APIS and AFIS, we as a region must continue to pool our best resources: our minds.
And whilst we speak of enforcement even in our local context as a region, we must see the best strategy will and must always be to rehabilitate and prevent. Let this also be at the forefront of your minds in your local representation and regional representation at the highest level of Caricom. A region moving together focused on the right things can be a powerful change.
We must feel you in our individual countries and region. You are vital whether you accept it, feel it or not.
I wish for you a fresh zeal as you work to strengthen your Organisation and each other and as you seek to strengthen each other and consequently your Organisation.
Hon Sharlene L Cartwright Robinson
Premier & Minister of Finance
The Turks and Caicos Islands
Turks and Caicos, September 21, 2025 – On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, the United States Coast Guard Southeast (USCG), working
in coordination with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) Marine Branch, the TCI Regiment, and the TCI Border Force, intercepted a vessel carrying 103 migrants bound for Providenciales.
The suspicious vessel, first tracked by the USCG, was stopped at sea and later secured by the Sea Guardian vessel, which towed it safely to South Dock Marina. Upon arrival, the migrants were disembarked and handed over to the TCI Border Force for processing.
A breakdown of those on board confirmed:
- 75 males (including two minors)
- 28 females (including two minors)
This interception marks the 18th such operation in 2025, bringing the total number of migrants detained this year to 1,510. The RT&CIPF thanks the USCG and local agencies for their close cooperation, noting that this successful outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of layered security measures protecting the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Force reminds the public that illegal migration is dangerous and life-threatening, and violations of the law will not be tolerated.
Anyone with information on illegal migration is urged to contact the nearest police station, call 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or via the P3 app.
Photos Courtesy: Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force
TCI News
Invest Turks and Caicos Celebrates a Decade of Innovation and Impact at 4th Annual General Meeting
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – September 19, 2025 – Invest Turks and Caicos Islands Agency (Invest TCI) proudly hosted its 4th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Ritz Carlton, Turks and Caicos, marking a historic milestone, under the theme ‘ Celebrating a Decade of Innovation and Impact’.
The celebratory event brought together government officials, investors, developers, business leaders, and community stakeholders as the
agency reflected on ten years of strategic growth and outlined its vision for the next decade.
The meeting was called to order by Chairlady, Ms. Cindy Ewing, who welcomed the full house with energy and gratitude. She acknowledged the partnerships which have fuelled Invest TCI’s success over its first ten years. In her remarks, she stated, ‘This agency was created with a clear purpose, to attract sustainable investment that would strengthen our economy and open new doors for our people’.
The evening continued with a powerful address from Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick, emphasizing the role of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development as cornerstones of the country’s future. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investment, community-driven infrastructure, and balanced growth. Building on that vision, Her Excellency, Acting Governor Anya Williams reflected on how the landscape has shifted from TCI once seeking foreign investors to now being actively pursued. She emphasized that with this new dynamic, growth must remain sustainable, protect the environment, and deliver lasting benefits for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Delivering the agency’s annual performance report, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove outlined achievements during the 2024–2025 financial year. These included the first Youth Business Summit, the opening of a new office in Grand Turk, the launch of the Community Pop-Up Series, the approval of the Heritage Turks and Caicos Islander Investment Policy, and advancement of the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy. She also reflected on a decade of accomplishments, noting how Invest TCI has expanded its reach, strengthened its impact, and positioned the islands for greater opportunity.
A Ten Years in Review video presentation followed, sparking applause and pride as it highlighted milestones in national development. The film set the stage for an invigorating panel discussion under the theme “The Next Horizon: Catalyzing Economic Development through Investment,” moderated by financial expert Mr. Drexwell Seymour.
The panel featured an extraordinary lineup: Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick, former Premiers Hon. Galmo Williams and Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove, and youth leader Ms. Arielle Neely. The discussion highlighted not only the perspectives of national leaders but also the entrepreneurial achievements of the former Premiers, both of whom have successfully built businesses that continue to contribute to the Turks and Caicos economy. The presence of three seasoned leaders alongside Invest TCI’s chief executive and a dynamic youth voice captivated the audience, underscoring both the depth of experience and the promise of the next generation.
The discussion was focused on how investment can power sustainable growth and resilience in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Key themes included sustainable development, innovation and technology, local business competitiveness, youth integration, and public-private collaboration. Panelists emphasized the need for robust legislative frameworks and compliance, while highlighting human capital development as the cornerstone of future progress. Ms. Neely added a compelling youth perspective, calling for measurable inclusion through Youth Impact data and innovative financing models to ensure young people are active stakeholders in shaping the economy.
As part of the anniversary celebration, Invest TCI also launched the Inaugural Developer Awards, created to recognize developers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive, responsible, and impactful development. The awards spotlighted projects that extended beyond commercial success to deliver meaningful community value.
Two award categories were introduced:
- Sustainability Trailblazer: Recognizing developers who lead in building sustainable legacies through infrastructure, cultural preservation, and enduring community partnerships.
- Community Impact Award: Honouring developers who have made the most visible social contributions through job creation, training, community programs, and philanthropy.
Submissions showcased initiatives such as recycling and composting programs, eliminating single-use plastics, landscaping with indigenous vegetation, and investments in renewable energy. Many also reflected consistent support for local charities, reinforcing the vision of development that uplifts both the economy and the community.
Nominees included The Hartling Group, Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos), Grace Bay Resorts, Waterloo Investments Holdings Ltd., and JEM TCI Holdings Ltd. (Salterra Resort & Spa). Grace Bay Resorts received the Sustainability Trailblazer Award, while Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos) was honoured with the Community Impact Award.
Other memorable moments of the evening included two luxury raffle draws and a special recognition presented to Ms. Sheryl McLaughlin for five years of dedicated service to the agency.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from Deputy Chair Mr. Walter Gardiner, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and extended appreciation to the organizers for delivering a successful and memorable celebration.
Deandrea Hamilton | Editor
Providenciales will come alive this September as the Hair Evolution International Beauty Education Expo & Hair Show takes center stage for two days of creativity, culture, and community impact. Hosted by New Light Entertainment, the highly anticipated event runs from September 26–27, 2025, blending artistry with empowerment while spotlighting some of the region’s brightest talents and industry pioneers.
Day One, set for Friday, September 26 at Graceway Sports Centre, will feature the International Beauty Education Expo, an immersive
program dedicated to skill-building and professional growth. From 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., attendees can take part in live demonstrations, hands-on workshops, and panel discussions led by international experts. Highlights include the discussion “Where Style Meets Strategy: Elevating Beauty, Business & Wellbeing” featuring renowned panelists such as dermatologist Dr. Marsha Barnett, cosmetologist and educator Dr. Kym Stubbs, Jamaica International Beauty Expo founder Suzette Brown, Toronto-based event producer Keisha Pinto, and educator Orica Smart. Celebrity stylists will also lead specialized trade classes, including a wig installation masterclass taught by Sophia Kay.
The Expo’s mission goes beyond beauty. It provides networking opportunities, showcases local and international vendors, and connects aspiring professionals—particularly youth—with career pathways in the creative industry. Part proceeds will benefit the Cancer Society of the Turks and Caicos Islands, ensuring that the event makes a lasting impact both inside and outside the beauty arena.
On Saturday, September 27, the spotlight shifts to Brayton Hall for the dazzling Main Stage Hair & Fashion Showcases. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the night promises high-energy runway performances, fantasy hair creations, cutting-edge barbering, and striking fashion presentations. Local and international talents will converge, blending artistry with entertainment for an unforgettable show.
The evening will also honor trailblazers who have made extraordinary contributions to the beauty industry. This year’s Hair Evolution Honourees include:
- Commenci Duncan-Hanfield, recipient of the Legacy in Beauty & Community Impact Award, recognized for her lasting influence and service.
- Camille Swann, awarded the Beauty & Influence Trailblazer Award, celebrating her innovative leadership and impact on the industry.
- Fior Rivas, recipient of the Outstanding Service & Industry Impact Award, for her dedication to advancing the beauty profession.
- Dr. Kym Stubbs, honored with the Lifetime Achievement in Beauty & Education Award, for decades of excellence as a cosmetologist and educator.
- Kareem Higgs, receiving the Barbering Legacy & Trailblazer Award, recognizing his contributions to elevating barbering within the community.
Founder and Executive Director Natasha Bien-Aimé expressed her excitement about the show’s return, emphasizing its role as more than entertainment. “Hair Evolution is about celebrating artistry, but also about education, empowerment, and building opportunities for the next generation,” she said.
With its dynamic blend of education, fashion, and recognition, Hair Evolution 2025 promises to inspire, entertain, and uplift. Tickets are available now, with limited space for attendees eager to witness the Caribbean’s premier beauty showcase.
