Connect with us

News

TCI, a Prideful nation, but is it helping or hindering? 

Published

on

#TurksandCaicos, October 23, 2023 – Whilst it’s great to have self-pride and confident, it’s easy to take it too far.

Is it time to adjust our mindset and behavior so that we can reel in the self-pride and let go of our ego?

The premise of this article is to spark some needed dialogue on how we as a nation can turn our pride into purpose and become a more balanced and understanding society.

It is my belief; this will help to move our country forward, not only for ourselves, but for others as well as the next generation.

There is a good, bad and the ugly side that comes along with self-pride. First, we have got to learn that admitting you’re wrong is not a weakness—it’s simply a part of being human instead of jumping to defensiveness.

Don’t be so quick to follow your instincts, which is to defend. Try taking a few deep breaths, we can Agree—to Disagree. Too often, we fail to take the time to learn from the person we are engaging with, instead, we try to showcase ourselves.

It’s ok to be quiet sometimes and help celebrate the success of others. You don’t have to be the loudest person in the room to get your point across. Pride makes you self-conscious, as a result, you’re less likely to say or do anything that will upset your status.

Like many other cultures, some of us struggle with admitting our shortcomings. Oftentimes, we would compare ourselves with others and always searching for ways to rationalize that we are better than others, or, is quick to tout we have been there, done that mentality.

As a prideful person, unconsciously, you may tie your self-worth to what you have or what you’ve done. We should be mindful that the healthiest form of self-worth, is connected to who you are as a person and not reliant on appearances, achievements or belongings.

What’s disheartening at times in our culture, is how difficult it is for us to have a sensible conversation without an argument. We have got to learn how to overcome pride by admitting that we don’t have all the answers, no matter how educated you are.

Author Stephen R Covertly said it best, “The biggest communication problem is we do not listen to understand. We listen to reply”.

Sometimes, it’s okay to say “I don’t know the answer without telling a story. Try having the courage to ask questions to expand our thinking.

From my observation, at times, we could be dying inside or need help, but because of our pride we will refuse to seek help. This is primarily for fear of what our neighbors might think or say, because in our minds, it’s all about outward appearances.

Pride prevents us from acknowledging our human vulnerabilities. We tend to see this behavior more often among some with a higher level of education or in position of authority. If it’s not their idea, it’s tossed aside. This is the sentiment expressed from many bright members on committees assigned by the government and statutory bodies.

It’s time to put pride aside in order for the country to move forward.

This shame-driven pride makes us too uncomfortable to say, “I’m sorry, I was wrong, I made a mistake.” When pride rules, we believe we’re always right. This makes it difficult to maintain and sustain relationships; nobody likes being with or working with a know-it-all, which could also be hindering us as a developing nation.

On the contrary, we seem to have lost our sense of pride and morality when it comes to standing up for the most vulnerable in our communities, our youth. It’s evident with respect to the senseless violence we are experiencing against one another. At what point are we willing to stand on our principles and fight for what we believe in.

In order for TCI to move forward and compete in this ever-changing world, we cannot let self-pride affect our attitudes and find ways to build back a nation that is founded on morality and the values we all share.

Continue Reading

News

Police Commissioner Honoured with Distinguished Civic Service Award at TCHTA Star Awards

Published

on

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders, executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.

Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.

In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.

The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.

This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.

Continue Reading

News

New Chartered Accountant Member Appointed to The Integrity Commission

Published

on

Darius E. Ferguson, Member of the Integrity Commission Board

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: Her Excellency the Governor, Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, today announced the appointment of Mr. Darius E. Ferguson as a Member of the Integrity Commission Board, serving as the Chartered Accountant Member in accordance with Section 3(2)(a) of the Integrity Commission Ordinance. His appointment is for a period of three (3) years and follows consultation with the President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Society of Professional Accountants.

Mr. Ferguson, with family ties to Providenciales and South Caicos, is a Chartered Accountant with over twenty years of senior leadership experience across aviation, finance, technology and consultancy, he brings a strong and diverse background in financial governance, regulatory compliance and strategic planning.

A former Chief Financial Officer of Sky Bahamas Airlines for a decade, Mr. Ferguson managed all financial reporting, regulatory engagement, capital projects and commercial development initiatives. He previously served in senior audit roles at both Ernst & Young LLP and PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, leading high‑risk audit engagements and ensuring adherence to international financial and accounting standards.

Throughout his career, Mr. Ferguson has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional ethics, community leadership and organisational accountability. His experience across corporate governance, financial oversight, and operational risk management will bring valuable strategic insight to the Integrity Commission.

Her Excellency the Governor welcomed the appointment, stating:

“Mr. Ferguson’s extensive background in financial management, auditing and governance, together with his leadership experience across both corporate and community sectors, make him well‑suited to serve on the Integrity Commission. His appointment strengthens our ongoing commitment to integrity, transparency and accountability in public life. I am confident that he will make a meaningful contribution to the Commission’s important work.”

Continue Reading

News

Multi-Agency Planning Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays

Published

on

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Friday, 27 February 2026: The Informal Settlements Unit (ISU), in collaboration with key government agencies, coordinated a multi-agency enforcement exercise on Thursday, 5 February 2026, at Block and Parcel 60503/17 in the Five Cays area.

The exercise was led by the Planning Department, pursuant to its statutory authority under the Physical Planning Act to address unauthorised development. The ISU coordinated the operation, with support provided by the Crown Land Unit and the Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force, while the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force ensured security throughout the activity.

The enforcement action formed part of a Public Private Partnership initiative between the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and private landowners. The registered owners of the land would have sought the state’s assistance to issue copies of Section 58 Enforcement Notices on unlawful structures identified on the parcel. The subject parcel comprises approximately 25 acres extending across Millennium Highway.

During the exercise, a total of fifty-four (54) copies of the Enforcement Notice were issued on structures located on the parcel. Notices were affixed to structures and served on persons found to be occupying illegal developments.

The Informal Settlements Unit reiterates that these coordinated enforcement exercises form part of the Government’s ongoing efforts to uphold planning regulations, protect property rights, and promote orderly and lawful development. Persons undertaking construction are reminded that development without the requisite planning approvals is unlawful and subject to enforcement action.

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING