TCI News
Adventist Youth Make Global Impact on Youth Day: “Show Up in the Cities”
PROVIDENCIALES, March 21 – Adventist youth from all corners of the globe embarked on a transformative journey as they participated in the annual Global Youth Day under the rallying cry, “Show Up in the Cities.” This dynamic initiative, spearheaded by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, aims to empower its youth to actively engage with their communities and effect positive change.
Ikechuku Orukwowu of the Ephesus SDA church administers a blood sugar test to a member of the community at the GK Supermarket in Long Bay. Global Youth Day, March 16, 2024
Since its inception in 2013, Global Youth Day has been a beacon of hope, emphasizing the core values of salvation, discipleship, and mission through tangible actions tailored to meet the needs of local communities. This year, the focus remained on practical outreach, with young Adventists engaged in projects that are not only relevant but also sustainable for their cities.
The diversity of projects envisioned reflects the breadth of impact the Adventist youth aspire to achieve. Over the 11-year period the Adventist churches within the Turks and Caicos Islands have conducted blood drives to support healthcare systems, health projects including screenings and awareness campaigns, and cleaning campaigns to beautify urban spaces. Additionally, all members engage in literature distribution, providing essential resources and spreading messages of health and hope.
Elder Judith Robinson, from the Antioch SDA church talks with recovering patients at the Cockburn Town Medical Centre in Grand Turk, while other members of the Church look on. March 16, 2024
Beyond these traditional endeavors, the scope of involvement extends to embracing the vulnerable within society. This includes adopting homes such as orphanages, elderly care facilities, and hospices, exemplifying the Adventist commitment to compassion and inclusivity. Moreover, the initiative seeks to equip youth with practical skills through training programs, fostering personal growth and community development.
Recognizing the importance of environmental stewardship, Adventist youth are also encouraged to undertake nature conservation projects, promoting sustainability through activities like tree planting and pollution awareness campaigns. Furthermore, the initiative extends its reach to encompass broader societal issues, including mental health awareness and lifestyle seminars aimed at promoting holistic well-being.
President of the Turks and Caicos Islands Conference of Seventh – day Adventists, Pastor Steve Cornwall noted that all the churches within the conference participated in Global Youth Day 2024. Cornwall hailed it a huge success while also noting some key community issues that the churches need to actively engage in. “In my view, the key community issues that the church should engage in addressing are fostering unity and compassion, promoting holistic wellness, and actively participating in environmental conservation efforts,” Cornwall shared. He further added, “With the recent upsurge in crime we need to take a stand to reclaim the lives of our youth. Due to the socio-economic disparities that exist within some of our local communities, it makes it even more difficult for some families to survive. Therefore, the distribution of basic humanitarian supplies, such as food and clothing, were received with open arms. When we consistently engage in community outreach it helps to raise awareness about important issues, inspire positive change, foster unity, and strengthen community bonds.”
Eshmalee Cherizard from the Blue Hills SDA church shares literature with a member of the Kew Town Community. Global Youth Day. March 16, 2024
As the day unfolded, countless stories emerged of young Adventists making a tangible difference in their communities. The spirit of service and compassion resonated, leaving an indelible mark on hearts and minds alike.
Eshmalee Cherizard, a youth who attends the Blue Hills SDA Church, shared the highlights of her day. “I love going out in the community to hand out tracks and pray for people. It makes me feel good knowing that I am helping someone to have a great day. So many people need to know about God, and I get to tell them how wonderful He is.”
Little Amelia Lindsay of the Victory SDA company located on Industrial Drive Road proudly advertises free food tasting, clothing and medical checks.
Youth Director of the Turks and Caicos Islands Conference of Seventh-day Adventists, Jermaine Reid has sounded the call for all Adventist youth to continue their good deeds. “As a church we need to be more like Jesus in our evangelism strategies, taking the gospel to the people. Let the gospel put on shoes and walk the streets as Jesus did finding the people where they are. Each church within our conference will continue its outreach efforts.” Reid ended by noting, “As a conference we are always ready to serve the community.”
In essence, Global Youth Day stands as a testament to the transformative power of collective action and youthful idealism. Through their unwavering commitment to service and mission, Adventist youth are not merely spectators but active participants in shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for all.
Written by Jodian Scott-Banton
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.
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.”
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.
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