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A Dream Deferred but Not Denied: Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Human Resources Manager, Owenta Cindy Coleby, Shares Her Story May 14, 2024 Immediate Release

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PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: Born in the picturesque Bahamas, raised in the beautiful by nature Turks and Caicos Islands, and educated at Banneker High School in the United States, Owenta Coleby’s journey through life has been as multilayered as her work experiences.

Owenta has worked in several sectors – including a short stint at a police station and two telecommunications companies. She worked for three years at the airport as a ticketing agent for Sky King, three years at Beaches Turks and Caicos as front desk agent and operator and continued in the hospitality industry as an employee welfare assistant then recruitment and training coordinator. She also served as deputy chairman of the Immigration Board in 2019.

Despite her busy schedule, Owenta always found time to pursue her passions. From assisting with makeup artistry for destination weddings to exploring her lifelong dream of becoming a nurse, her journey was marked by a relentless pursuit of personal and professional growth.

So strong was her passion for nursing that she made numerous visits to the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital, formerly the Myrtle Rigby Hospital, where she observed medical procedures. During the early stages of her career, she recalls taking some time off from work to enroll in a nursing programme at the College of Bahamas. However, she did not adjust well to dorm life and soon opted out of the programme. This discontinuation of her studies was to be a redirection of her passion.

When Owenta learnt of an opening for assistant human resources manager at Beaches, she seized the opportunity to rejoin the team in November of 2018. “Beaches is the largest company in the Turks and Caicos, second only to the government. Therefore, I considered the fact that it provides wonderful opportunities for professional growth. Within the human resources department, I also have an opportunity to improve the work experience of my team members.”

Her empathetic nature, shaped by her experiences of living abroad, fueled her dedication to supporting the diverse team member population. “When I joined the HR team, my objective was to put smiles on people’s faces by helping to create a positive and inspiring work environment through various initiatives that would boost staff morale.”

In her line of duty, Owenta recognised that there are many people who are overwhelmed and so through her management of the human resources department, she helps to provide the necessary support for team members to help them heal, grow and flourish.
In reflecting on one of the most impactful periods of her time at the resort, Owenta shared her experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. The pandemic brought unprecedented challenges, but Owenta’s unwavering dedication shone through in the efforts she made to ensure that anything for her team members was done in a timely manner in preparation for the resort’s reopening.

This, she says, was a sacrifice worth making as she knew that many were depending on her. This commitment did not go unnoticed, and she was nominated by Beaches as a Pandemic Hero for the Star Awards in 2021.

Owenta is inspired by individuals like Julianna Musgrove, whose perseverance and dedication led to remarkable career advancements within the company. “Hearing her story of how she started as an intern then worked her way up to Regional Director of Learning and Development, is very encouraging.” She emphasizes the importance of hard work and humility, citing Julianna’s willingness to start from the bottom and work her way up.

Owenta further noted, “No job or department was considered below her and so she was able to take all that she had learnt, and she worked her way to the top. I admire that.”

While being motivated by others, Owenta has also been an exemplary team member to many. Managing Director, James McAnally noted, “Owenta has continued to be a source of inspiration for her peers as well as a beacon of guidance for the team members. Having worked several positions in our large resort, she has been integral in assisting all levels of our team from the beginning of the recruiting process, orientation of our standards, accountability for performance, staff recognition, celebration and providing guidance for future development. Assisting nearly 1,800 team members is no small feat, and she continues to lead the HR team with care and consistency.”

Owenta also encourages her team members to capitalize on the training that is provided through the Sandals Corporate University (SCU). “I have known of many who have worked their way up through the ranks based on the experiences gained on the job and their completion of the very practical and content rich courses offered.” Throughout her tenure at the resort a few of the courses she has completed are: Leadership Excellence Level 2, Professional Communication, Professional Leadership and Art of Selling. Additionally, Owenta is in the final stages of completing her Master’s Degree in Human Resource Management and Development with the University of Salford in Manchester. She is a certified recruitment and compliance specialist, and she attained her certification in Hospitality Management from Florida Atlantic University.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Owenta finds solace in listening to music. She is also a very talented singer, trumpet player, and baritone enthusiast.

In Owenta Cindy Coleby’s journey, we find a testament to the power of perseverance, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Her story serves as an inspiration to all who dare to dream and strive for excellence in every facet of life.

 

Photo Captions: 

Header: Beaches Turks and Caicos resort Human Resources Manager Owenta Coleby shares her signature smile at her desk at the World’s number one all-inclusive family resort

1st insert: Beaches Turks and Caicos Human Resources Manager Owenta Coleby (seated) pauses from her conversation with Fitzroy Virgo, Human Resources Administrator, to have her image captured

2nd insert: Owenta Coleby, Beaches Turks and Caicos resort Human Resources Manager continues to lead the team of almost two thousand team members at the World’s number one all-inclusive family resort

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Bahamas News

Caribbean Bottling Supports the 27th Basketball Smiles Week  

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NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to once again support Basketball Smiles for their 27th year.

Upholding its corporate pillar of community outreach, CBC proudly donated $2,000, over 75 cases of Dasani, Powerade and Sprite, reusable Powerade water bottles and numerous marketing materials.

The annual sporting summer camp offers free basketball and life skills training to Junior and High School students.

Basketball Smiles’ mission of developing leadership qualities while fostering children’s academic achievement and self-esteem aligns perfectly with CBC’s commitment to supporting and empowering youth.

Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager for Caribbean Bottling Company shared why the company continues to support this program each year.

“At CBC, we believe investing in our youth is one of the greatest ways to strengthen our communities. We’re proud to support Basketball Smiles each year because it goes beyond the game. This program champions healthy lifestyles, positive values and brighter futures. It’s a privilege to play a role in helping these young athletes reach their full potential each year,” she shared.

Sam Nicholls, Basketball Smiles Camp President and Founder expressed.

“Caribbean Bottling Company is an incredible partner. We are truly grateful for their generous support, which will go a long way in making a positive impact on the lives of our campers,” Nicholls expressed.

CBC is always ready to lend its support toward initiatives and programs that uplift young Bahamians. The impact Basketball Smiles makes on the community is undeniable and is why CBC remains a historic sponsor.

For more information on sponsorship, events and new products, visit www.cbcbahamas.com today.

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Bahamas News

CWS Supports Transforming Spaces with Premium Products and Unique Cocktails

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CWS brand representative for Bottega and Excellsior wines posing with attendees enjoying glasses of Bottega Gold Prosecco at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas.

NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Wines and Spirits (CWS), The Bahamas’ premier wine and spirits distributor is thrilled to once again lend its support to Transforming Spaces (TS).

CWS is a proud historical partner of the annual art week which highlights Bahamian art and art spaces. Under this year’s theme, “Chasing Light” Transforming Spaces and Caribbean Wines & Spirits created a memorable art experience.

To mark 21 years of the upliftment and exposure of culture and Bahamian art, CWS offered award winning wines St. Francis, Rebellious, Bottega and Excellsior; premium spirits, Cross Keys Gin, El Tequileno Tequila, Angostura Rum and Nemiroff Vodka, along with the newly added Coors Light Beer from its portfolio.

To kickstart the annual art week, CWS delighted attendees with a tasting of globally renowned Bottega Wines at TS’ Poetry Jam, held at ICE Bahamas. Throughout the event, Bottega brand representatives shared tasting notes, ideal pairings, and insights into the brand’s portfolio.

During the highly anticipated Saturday and Sunday tours, CWS showcased its premium products at select art galleries.

Attendees enjoyed Rebellious and St. Francis wines at The Current: Baha Mar Art Gallery and Museum, Bottega and Excellsior wines at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, Coors Light beer at the University of The Bahamas Pro Gallery and hand-crafted Schweppes mixes featuring Cross Keys Gin, El Tequileno Tequila, Angostura Rum and Nemiroff Vodka at CAB Gallery & Studio.

Throughout the two-day tour, CWS product specialists enriched the experience by providing a deeper appreciation for their exceptional beverage portfolio.

Members of the Transforming Spaces Committee expressed their appreciation towards CWS’ support after another successful art week.

“Transforming Spaces is deeply grateful for the continued support of Caribbean Wines & Spirits over the years. Their partnership has become such an important part of the TS experience, helping us create welcoming and vibrant moments for our audiences across the tour weekend. From signature wines and cocktail bars to refreshments at gallery stops and pop-up events, their contribution brings an added sense of hospitality, celebration, and connection to the journey through Bahamian contemporary art.” — TS2026 Committee.

Caribbean Wines & Spirits is proud to partner with Transforming Spaces in supporting and elevating the voices and works of Bahamian artists and looks forward to strengthening this partnership for years to come.

To learn more about CWS’ involvement in the community, follow on social media @caribbeanwinesandspirits or visit the website at www.cwsbahamas.com today.

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Government

Government Outlines New Healthcare Vision as Interhealth Exit Accelerates Reform  

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By Magnetic Media Newsroom

 

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands — The Turks and Caicos Islands Government says the breakdown of its relationship with InterHealth Canada presents an opportunity to reshape healthcare delivery, with plans to expand local medical services, strengthen primary care and reduce dependence on overseas treatment.

During a national briefing following InterHealth Canada’s notice terminating its hospital contract, Premier Charles Washington Misick acknowledged publicly for the first time that Government and InterHealth had been negotiating an exit from the arrangement for more than a year after what he described as an “irretrievably broken down” relationship.

Despite the contractual dispute, Misick and Health Minister Kyle Knowles stressed that healthcare services will continue uninterrupted during the transition.

“Allow us to do our job,” Knowles appealed, assuring residents that Government is actively managing the transition and safeguarding patient care.

The Premier outlined what amounts to a broader healthcare transformation built around four connected levels of care: strengthened community-based primary healthcare; expanded polyclinic services; enhanced hospital-based secondary care with greater specialist capacity; and overseas tertiary treatment only for cases that cannot be managed locally.

Among the proposals are the long-discussed establishment of intensive care units, expanded use of currently unfinished hospital space, recruitment of more resident specialist physicians and stronger contract management to oversee future healthcare agreements.

Knowles said the new polyclinic model will broaden services available outside the hospitals, including dentistry, ophthalmology, laboratory services, diagnostic imaging, gynaecology and preventative screening, helping to reduce pressure on emergency departments while improving early intervention.

Misick also acknowledged that while the hospital system significantly improved healthcare access after opening in 2010, Government believes further reform is necessary to improve affordability, sustainability and the range of services available within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The briefing marked the Government’s most comprehensive explanation to date of its plans beyond the InterHealth contract, signalling that officials now see the transition as an opportunity to redesign healthcare delivery rather than simply replace one operator with another.

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