Bahamas News
NEW YEAR RESOLUTIONS – BASIL SPRINGER COLUMN ON DECEMBER 31, 2023
January 20, 2024 – “For I know the plans I have for you, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” – Jeremiah 29:11
Shortly before I moved to Trinidad 10 years ago, I was invited by a colleague to attend a seminar coordinated by a Barbadian life coach who offered a free 30-minute introductory consultation. At the time, exploring the use of life coaching services was not on my agenda, but I kept her business card.
When I arrived in Trinidad there were many changes to my lifestyle: a different social environment; commitment to a new personal relationship; operating in a contrasting, albeit favorable, economic space; challenges of work-life balance; and consulting professionally in a virtual environment. It did not take long before the potential value of life coaching came to mind.
I consulted my Rolodex, accepted the complimentary offer and quickly hired the life coach to help me with the transition. I was familiar with business mentoring since it is integral to my professional consulting activities, but I was unfamiliar with the field of life coaching.
The skills and methodology the life coach employed were most impressive. In particular, the program introduced me to the practice of positive affirmations of abundance in the spiritual, intellectual, physical, relationship, financial and business aspects of my life.
Having experienced its benefits, I can now conclude that not only did life coaching help me to transition more
smoothly to my new lifestyle, but I am also now convinced that life coaching and business mentoring services should be twinned in my consulting business and called “Shepherding Services” to guide young entrepreneurs along the journey to business success.
As a result, the 3M Shepherding model (Metamorphosis of business ideas; Management of entrepreneurial mindsets and business systems; and Money through an equity fund) has been enhanced accordingly.
I am often asked about the importance of New Year resolutions in both the business and personal arenas. As we approach the end of another year, it’s a perfect time to reflect on this topic and its relevance to our journey towards success and fulfillment.
In the spiritual realm, our resolutions might involve dedicating time to meditation, prayer or other forms of spiritual nourishment. This strengthens our inner peace and resilience, qualities that are invaluable in both personal and professional contexts.
Intellectually, we might resolve to learn something new or challenge our minds in novel ways. This could be through reading, taking courses or engaging in stimulating discussions. Intellectual growth keeps us sharp and adaptable, which is essential in the ever-changing business landscape.
Physically, resolving to maintain or improve our health is crucial. This might mean regular exercise, a balanced diet or adequate rest. A healthy body is the foundation upon which we build our daily productivity and long-term achievements. I’m grateful that my grandson has just given me a plan for geriatric health.
In terms of relationships, we might focus on nurturing and strengthening the bonds with those around us – family, friends, colleagues and business partners. Healthy relationships are a cornerstone of a fulfilling life and a prosperous career.
Financial resolutions could involve better budgeting, investing, finding ways to increase our income, or pension planning. Financial stability and growth enable us to focus more on our other goals without the nagging anxiety of financial insecurity and budgetary constraints.
Finally, in the business aspect, our resolutions should employ the 3M Shepherding model. The business world is dynamic, and staying ahead requires a commitment to continuous learning and adaptation.
Collectively, when we embrace these resolutions, we not only improve ourselves; we also contribute to the growth and improvement of those around us. Our collective resolutions can create a ripple effect, leading to broader societal and economic growth.
Bahamas News
EducationUSA Bahamas Advising Center Officially Opens to Help Students Wishing to Study in the US
By LLONELLA GILBERT
Bahamas Information Services
NASSAU, The Bahamas — The EducationUSA Bahamas Advising Center was officially opened at The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) on Thursday, September 5, 2024, to help students throughout the country have personalized access to free, accurate, current and comprehensive information about US tertiary institutions.
Minister of Education & Technical and Vocational Training the Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin thanked the US government for opening
up the Center to help residents achieve the goal of going to a tertiary institution in the US.
The Education Minister said during a recent trip to Cuba, she learned that high school is called “pre-university”.
She noted that many students in The Bahamas believe that after high school, they should go out and work.
She said, “While there is nothing wrong with that, the secondary school experience should be seen as a launching pad for something more, further and greater. We want our young people to see themselves in that way.
“We want to encourage our young people, all of them going through high school, that they are in pre-university. It is just the launching pad for more that is out there for them.”
The Minister added that students should not only see their individual potential, but also come back home after going to a tertiary
institution abroad to help build national capacity.
President, BTVI, Dr. Linda Davis; US Chargé d’Affaires, Kimberly Furnish; EducationUSA Regional Manager for North America, Central America and the Caribbean, Giselle Dubinsky; Public Affairs Officer/US Embassy, Suemayah Abu-Douleh also attended the opening.
Dr. Davis said the use of the Center is not limited to BTVI students. “Bahamians and residents throughout The Bahamas wishing to study in the US should consider EducationUSA at BTVI as their official source of information.”
She explained that in 2019, BTVI and the US Embassy signed a Memorandum of Understanding, agreeing to establish the Center on BTVI’s main campus.
“The Center was operationalized in 2023 and today we celebrate its inauguration. BTVI is pleased to finally reach this milestone and join the global network of over 400 EducationUSA Advising Centers, tasked with facilitating much needed guidance and support for students wishing to matriculate to a US institution.”
The US Chargé d’Affaires said EducationUSA aims to make opportunities to study at US tertiary institutions more accessible to students by providing them with the guidance and resources they need to pursue their academic dreams in the US.
She also explained that part of the mission of the Center is to ensure that students choose tertiary institutions that are accredited.
“The Center will serve as a hub for students, parents and educators seeking information about US higher education. Our advisor Breann Marshall is here to assist every step of the way from selecting the right institution to understanding the VISA requirements.”
PHOTO CAPTION
BIS Photos/Patrick Hanna
Header : Ribbon Cutting
The EducationUSA Bahamas Advising Center was officially opened at The Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI) on Thursday, September 5, 2024, to help students throughout the country obtain personalized access to free, accurate, current and comprehensive information about US tertiary institutions. US Chargé d’Affaires, Kimberly Furnish and Minister of Education & Technical and Vocational Training the Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin performed the ceremonial ribbon-cutting.
Showcase
Advisor, The EducationUSA Bahamas Advising Center, Breann Marshall (centre) shows Minister of Education & Technical and Vocational Training the Hon. Glenys Hanna-Martin and US Chargé d’Affaires, Kimberly Furnish around the Center.
Jael Joseph’s Digital Platform Embarks on a New Chapter of Empowerment and Creativity
Jael Joseph has officially relaunched BlackIslandGirl.com, transforming her passion project into a dynamic multimedia platform that caters to a wide array of interests and communities. Originally created in 2021 as Joseph’s capstone project at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University), Black Island Girl has now evolved into a comprehensive digital space that reflects her creative vision and commitment to representation, storytelling, and empowerment.
The newly revamped site features a broad range of content sections, including Beauty, Business, Culture, Entertainment, Health and Wellness, Politics, and “The BIG Feature,” a spotlight segment focusing on in-depth stories and profiles. In addition to articles and features, the site’s new “What’s New” section provides event promoters with the opportunity to list their events, making Black Island Girl a go-to source for cultural and community engagement.
One of the most significant changes in this relaunch is the platform’s shift towards multimedia offerings. Businesses can now request
custom commercials and podcasts, giving them new avenues to promote their products and services. This expanded functionality opens the door for Black Island Girl to tap into every corner of modern media, creating a space that engages audiences through multiple forms of content.
Advertisers can now leverage the platform’s growing reach, promoting their brands and services within a diverse and inclusive community. Jael Joseph’s vision for the site goes beyond traditional media, offering opportunities for men and women alike to find inspiration, learn, and connect.
The relaunch of Black Island Girl comes at a time when Joseph is dedicating more time and energy to the project, following the registration of Black Island Girl Multimedia. This business venture further underscores her intent to build a creative and empowering space. Under the same multimedia banner, she also released her debut film Territory, a powerful short documentary that has been recognized internationally. Territory was nominated at several film festivals and took home the award for Best Short Documentary at the 2023 Caribbean Tales International Film Festival, marking another major achievement in Joseph’s creative career.
This relaunch highlights the multifaceted talent of Jael Joseph and her dedication to creating a platform that not only showcases her work but also serves as a source of inspiration for others. With its enhanced offerings, Black Island Girl is now positioned as a go-to multimedia hub for those interested in culture, wellness, business, and more.
As Joseph continues to focus her energy on Black Island Girl, the platform is poised to become an essential digital space that empowers and uplifts. Whether through its rich content, multimedia offerings, or community-focused event listings, Black Island Girl is set to carve out a unique niche in the media landscape, fueled by Jael Joseph’s passion and creativity.
Finance the Hon. Philip Davis said, on September 10, 2024, that it marked the start of an “extraordinary” new chapter for Cat Island.
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