— The nation’s first coral gene bank will preserve, propagate and replant coral to reverse devastation from rising ocean temperatures and a rapidly spreading disease –

PARADISE ISLAND, The Bahamas (June 13, 2025) — The Bahamas has launched an aggressive national conservation initiative to address and reverse the devastating effects of warming ocean temperatures and a disease ravaging its coral reefs. The country’s first coral gene bank is operated and managed by coral experts from the Perry Institute of Marine Science. The biosecure facility opened today at Atlantis Paradise Island to house, propagate, and replant healthy coral on damaged reefs.

“Coral has become increasingly endangered over the years, but the introduction of Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease completely changed the game and created extreme urgency to act,” said Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) Executive Director Dr. Craig Dahlgren. “Transmitted among corals through direct contact and water circulation, the disease has spread to all major Bahamian islands and causes a high death rate in corals. Treatments are emerging slowly, but corals need to be rescued and isolated from the disease while these methods are perfected.”

Part of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums’ global Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE) program, onsite management of the new bank is led by PIMS experts, including a former Bahamas Agriculture and Marine Science Institute (BAMSI) graduate and student interns from BAMSI and the University of The Bahamas, with support from marine-life experts at Atlantis.

“Our collective vision is not only to preserve coral currently under threat, but also to foster new generations of corals that, when planted, are more resilient to disease and other dangers. Longstanding support and funding from our contributors and supporters, including Disney Conservation Fund, Atlantis Paradise Island, and Atlantis Blue Project Foundation, have been essential in making this national effort possible.”

“Our investment in the Coral Gene Bank builds on Disney’s decades-long commitment to protecting coral in The Bahamas,” said Andy Stamper, Conservation Science Manager for Disney Conservation. “This facility is a vital step toward preserving biodiversity and restoring reef health for generations to come.”

The Bahamas Coral Gene Bank can accommodate up to 200 large, mature coral colonies, in addition to smaller fragments and juvenile corals. PIMS has already rescued and relocated fifteen coral species to the biosecure Gene Bank research facility. Coral fragments collected from the ocean are placed in pristine, on-site aquaria, and once stable, they grow and reproduce quickly with the aid of innovative reproduction techniques such as lunar-cycle simulations.

PHOTO CAPTIONS:

Header:  A proud moment for coral conservation: Scientists from Perry Institute for Marine Science, Atlantis, and partner organizations stand over the newly established coral gene bank at Atlantis Paradise Island, having just populated its tanks with rescued coral colonies.

 1st insert: One coral at a time—This fragment of a highly susceptible coral species is now safe inside the Bahamas Coral Gene Bank. Here, it can grow and reproduce under expert care, protected from the deadly Stony Coral Tissue Loss Disease.

2nd insert: Hope in their hands: Two coral researchers at the Bahamas Coral Gene Bank share a moment of joy after placing healthy coral colonies into their new biosecure home—an act that could help restore entire reef systems.

About the Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS):

For more than 50 years, Perry Institute for Marine Science (PIMS) has advanced ocean stewardship around the world. Guided by our vision “Thriving Seas, Empowered Communities,” our scientists pair cutting‑edge research with hands-on conservation to protect coral reefs, mangroves, fisheries, and coastal habitats while supporting sustainable livelihoods. We collaborate with governments, NGOs, schools, and forward‑thinking businesses to turn data into action—whether restoring reefs through our Reef Rescue Network, mapping coastal ecosystems with drone and photogrammetry technology, or training the next generation of marine leaders. By discovering solutions, creating opportunities, and inspiring action, PIMS works to ensure a healthy ocean for people and the planet alike. Learn more at www.perryinstitute.org.

Grand Turk, Turks and Caicos Islands — The Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities, in collaboration with the Turks and Caicos Islands Postal Services, proudly announces that Daysha Andrews, a student of the Helena Jones Robinson High School, has been selected to represent the Turks and Caicos Islands in the 54th International Letter-Writing Competition for Young People, organized by the Universal Postal Union (UPU).

This marks the first time the Turks and Caicos Islands has participated in this global competition, which sees entries from over 190 countries. Daysha’s powerful and expressive letter captured the spirit of this year’s theme, earning her the honour of being the country’s inaugural representative on the international stage. The international results are expected to be released in October 2025, in celebration of World Post Day.

In addition to Daysha’s outstanding performance, the Ministry also recognizes the accomplishments of the national finalists:

• Nathan Garland of Shining Stars Preparatory School, who was named Second Runner-Up, and
• of Best Institute, who secured the position of Third Runner-Up.

Presentations have already been made by the Ministry and the Postal Services to Daysha Andrews and Nathan Garland in recognition of their achievements. A presentation to Laila Reynolds will be made in the near future to honour her contribution and commendable effort.                                                                                                                                                                                            Postmaster General, Ms. Elizabeth James, expressed her pride in the students and the significance of the territory’s participation:                                                                                                                               “This is the first time the Turks and Caicos Islands Postal Services has participated in this prestigious competition.   I would like to congratulate the seven students from the four schools that entered.   All the letters were exceptional, but only one person could be chosen.   I would like to thank the winner, Ms. Daysha Andrews, and I wish her all the best as she now competes internationally with over 190 other participants.   The result is expected in October 2025 for World Post Day.”

Minister for Public Safety and Utilities, the Honourable Otis Morris, praised the initiative and student involvement:

“We are incredibly proud of all our young writers who participated in this landmark event. Daysha has made history for Turks and Caicos, and we eagerly anticipate the international outcome. This competition underscores the importance of self-expression, literacy, and global connection. We thank every student who participated and look forward to even greater engagement next year.”

Permanent Secretary, Mr. Desmond Wilson, added:

“This competition has sparked a new wave of inspiration among our students. The Ministry remains committed to nurturing opportunities that amplify youth voices and celebrate their potential. We are grateful to our Postal Services team for spearheading this important initiative and ensuring its success.”

The Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities and the Postal Services Department extend their sincere appreciation to the students, parents, educators, and schools who supported this effort. As we look ahead, we hope to see greater participation across even more schools and islands in next year’s competition.

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: At Beaches Turks and Caicos, exceptional service isn’t left to chance—it’s cultivated, crafted and continuously refined. This commitment to excellence was on full display as over fifty passionate team members graduated from a dynamic six-week Customer Service Excellence training, designed and delivered through the Sandals Corporate University (SCU).                                                                                                                                                                                The immersive training programme focused on building essential soft skills for hospitality professionals in an increasingly competitive industry. From communication strategies to emotional intelligence and resourcefulness, graduates were empowered to sharpen their personal brand and elevate the guest experience across every touchpoint.

Held at the resort’s Caribbean Village conference room, the graduation ceremony was charged with energy, optimism and purpose. Guest speaker Sabrina Green, former director of the Turks and Caicos Human Rights Commission and best-selling author, delivered an inspiring keynote under the theme: “Level Up and Lead: Elevating Service Standards.”

“You are now change agents,” Green told the graduates. “Your success depends not only on what you say but how you say it—through empathy, clarity and emotional intelligence. At Beaches Turks and Caicos, excellence is not optional; it’s your way of life.”

She further emphasized that being resourceful and adaptable is key. “Guests may call on you for anything—sometimes beyond your job description. This course has equipped you to listen, empathise, apologise and provide a solution. That’s the Beaches way.”                                                                                                                                         Assistant Learning and Development Manager Jodian Scott-Banton celebrated the group’s transformation and encouraged them to LEAP—Listen, Empathize, Act, Perform—in their roles moving forward.

“Through the Sandals Corporate University, you’ve been given tools to elevate your service standards,” said Scott-Banton. “You’ve grown in confidence and skill and I’m confident you’ll now serve as ambassadors of excellence, raising the bar in every interaction.”

The training was a creative blend of theory, practice and performance. Participants showcased their learning through presentations and dramatized scenarios—sparking both engagement and insight. The standout group, Personal Branding, was hailed as the most effective, thanks to their unique blend of youth, experience and dynamic communication.

Kimberley Mowatt, representing the winning team and a proud member of the Food and Beverage department, reflected on the collaborative spirit. “Our group mastered the art of synergy. We brought energy, creativity and clarity—traits we’ll continue to harness in shaping guest experiences.”

Managing Director James McAnally offered congratulations and grounded the celebration in the broader mission of the brand.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            “This course was so much more than completing a programme—it was about igniting transformation. Our goal is to train, certify and empower our team members to consistently deliver world-class service. When our team thrives, our guests feel the difference.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                 McAnally further affirmed that the SCU Customer Service Excellence course is an academic achievement and even more so, it’s a cultural commitment. “The true value lies in how each team member now thinks, acts and serves—with greater awareness, accountability and care.”

As Beaches Turks and Caicos continues to set benchmarks for Caribbean hospitality, this latest cohort of graduates serves as a shining example of the resort’s deep investment in its people—and the enduring power of service with heart.

PHOTO CAPTIONS: 

1st insert: Guest speaker Sabrina Green, former director of the TCI Human Rights Commission shares with the graduating class the on the purpose of level up and lead: Elevating Service Standards

2nd insert: Members of the Food and Beverage department, Javian Campbell (left) and Anne Francis share a celebratory moment at the commencement of the graduation exercise

3rd insert: Assistant Learning and Development Manager Jodian Scott-Banton (right) presents a token of appreciation to guest speaker Sabrina Green at the Customer Service Excellence graduation exercise

4th insert: Denekia Hall (right) from the Food and Beverage department accepts her certificate from Sabrina Green guest speaker

5th insert: Sabrina Green presents to Racquel Mitchell