News
Beaches Turks and Caicos Plays Significant Role in Successful Staging of Jr. Lit’l Chef and Junior Chef Competitions
MEDIA RELEASE
PROVIDENCIALES, Turks & Caicos Islands: The Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA) recently hosted its much-anticipated Jr. Lit’l Chef and Junior Chef competitions, drawing young culinary talents from across the islands.
The competitions involved youths aged 12-14 and 15-19, respectively, with each phase running for a week. The grand cook-off allowed
participants to demonstrate their culinary prowess. Participants of both competitions were challenged to prepare a three-course meal consisting of appetizer, an entrée, and dessert.
Executive Chef of Beaches Turks and Caicos, Craig Nazareth helped to manage and captain the teams along with Edwin Gallardo, Executive Chef of Seven Stars. The participants received training at several prestigious resorts, including The Palms, Grace Bay Club, Blue Haven, Ritz Carlton, and Seven Stars. The Jr. Lit’l Chef camp culminated with an exciting cook-off at Kimonos Restaurant, Beaches Turks and Caicos. The young chefs showcased their skills, guided by esteemed chefs such as Eric “Cookie” Johnson, and Daniel Pryce from BTC.
The finale of the Lit’l Chef competition was hosted at Sol E Mare Villa. The Lit’l Chefs competition not only crowns champions but also selects a representative for the Turks and Caicos Islands international culinary team.
Celebrating Culinary Talent:
The Jr. Lit’l Chefs competition featured teams with creative names reflecting their fun spirit: Three Musketeers, Little Chefs, Taste Titans, Honey Pot, and Le Bouchon de Manger. Emerging as champions were Le Bouchon de Manger, represented by Adrian Penn and Roneiko Rowe. Little Chefs, with members Sheliyah Wilson and Nkechi Lewis, secured second place.
Adrian Penn, beaming with pride, shared, “I know my parents are going to be very proud. I am very happy to relive the experience of winning the competition again.”
Roneiko Rowe added, “I know my parents will be happy, especially my dad because he is a chef as well. This is my first time in the competition. Adrian and I play soccer together, but it was our first time working together in the kitchen.”
Crowning the Lit’l Chef Champion:
Ashley Gardiner was named the Lit’l Chef Champion for 2024, marking her second consecutive win. She will travel to Florida to represent the TCI at the Caribbean Junior Duelling Challenge (CJDC) at Carifest XIII in November. Shining Star, Gabrielle Martin, is the runner-up who will accompany Gardiner as a reserve.
A conversation with 17-year-old Ashley formerly of the A. Louise Garland Thomas High School and Edwin Allen High School in Clarendon, Jamaica, revealed her passion for the culinary arts and her appreciation of the mentorship she received from chefs at Beaches Turks and Caicos. She is also grateful for the opportunities garnered from the TCHTA.
“From a tender age I took an interest in baking and would often follow recipes from YouTube and other sites to try and learn more
about the culinary arts. I was elated when I was given the opportunity to participate in the Lit’l Chef’s competition of which Beaches Turks and Caicos turned out to be one of the top locations that we visited and worked at during the programme. It was truly an honor to be chosen as the winner of the competition for two consecutive years with Chef Cookie from the Beaches resort being our mentor on both occasions. It is with his guidance, complimented by other chefs, that I was able to be successful. I will forever be grateful for the programme, the chefs and the resorts that support this initiative through the TCHTA.”
Chef Nazareth had high praises for the young chefs, “I was most impressed by the commitment they demonstrated, how much they have learnt and grown as individuals, and their ability to work together.”
He also emphasized the significance of the camp in securing the future success of the hospitality industry in the Turks and Caicos Islands. “Hospitality is the number one industry here, so it is very important that we invest heavily in our young people who are desirous of entering the sector.”
Words of Wisdom:
Nazareth advised the budding chefs, “learn from mistakes and keep growing.” Stacy Cox, CEO of the TCHTA, echoed this sentiment, commending the participants, “this was an amazing experience. I had an opportunity to see what the kids did all throughout the week as they brought it all together in the Black Box Competition, which is the grand finale of their week of training. They followed their tutors’ instructions. They had the cuts, they had the flavors. Their presentations were phenomenal. It was hard to judge because everyone did such an amazing job.”
Highlighting the local flavours and seasonings, Cox noted, “they tried to get a lot of the island flavors in, using a lot of jerk and creole seasonings. The textures were pretty good for the most part.” She added, “there is always room for improvement, which is why we have the camps on an annual basis so that they can get an opportunity to return and develop their skills.”
The Jr. Lit’l Chef and Junior Chef competitions have once again showcased the promising culinary talent of the Turks and Caicos Islands, helping to ensure a bright future for the local hospitality industry. Cogratulations to all participants and winners for their dedication and remarkable achievements.
Photo Captions:
Header – Beaches Turks and Caicos Executive Chef Craig Nazareth (right) shares a moment with TCHTA Stacy Cox (left) along with Lit’l Chefs winners Adrian Penn (2nd left) and Roneiko Rowe following the successful staging of the 2024 season of Lit’l Chef competition at the BTC’s Kimonos’ restaurant.
1st insert – Lit’l Chef Jada Wright presents her team’s culinary delights to the judges at the Lit’l Chef 2024 competition at the Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Kimonos restaurant recently.
2nd insert – Lit’l Chefs 2024 judges doing their examination of the Lit’l Chefs and their respective dishes at the competition at the Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Kimonos restaurant recently.
3rd insert – Sheliyah Wilson, one of the Lit’l Chef 2024 competition shows off her one of her team’s culinary master piece for the camera at the Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Kimonos restaurant recently.
4th insert – Lit’l Chef Joseph Missick was all prepared and ready as he presents one of the dishes from his team at the 2024 Lit’l Chef competiton at the Beaches Turks and Caicos’ Kimonos restaurant recently.
News
The Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals
PROVIDENCIALES, TURKS AND CAICOS ISLANDS – (February 25th, 2026) – The Turks and Caicos Islands began 2026 on a positive note, with stayover arrivals in January surpassing the same period in 2025.
Preliminary figures indicate that 56,830 stayover visitors arrived in January 2026, representing a two percent increase year-on-year. The steady growth continues the positive momentum experienced at the close of 2025.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant, attributed the encouraging performance to new collaboration with tour operator partners as well as increased airlift from key source markets.
“We anticipated a strong January performance following the growth recorded in November and December. The winter season has traditionally been a robust period for the Turks and Caicos Islands, and this year that strength has been further supported by enhanced collaboration with partners and expanded airlift from Canada and the United States We are cautiously optimistic about maintaining this upward trajectory in the weeks and months ahead.
Cruise Sector
In cruise, preliminary figures show 122,935 cruise passenger arrivals in January, reflecting a 15 percent decrease compared to January 2025.
The decline is attributed to a reduction in cruise calls during the month. A total of 33 vessels called on Grand Turk in January, seven fewer than during the corresponding period last year.
Marketing Shows
As part of its ongoing efforts to position the Turks and Caicos Islands as a premier luxury destination, Experience Turks and Caicos has been actively participating in the Travel & Adventure Shows across several major cities in the United States.
The destination has already been showcased in Washington, D.C., New York, and Chicago, with Fort Lauderdale and Denver scheduled in the coming weeks.
Public Relations Manager Laura Dowrich represented the Turks and Caicos Islands alongside the destination’s U.S. marketing agency, ABA Global.
Beaches Turks & Caicos – Stone Creek Travels
“One of the most encouraging takeaways from these shows is that the Turks and Caicos Islands is indeed on travellers’ radar. We met many visitors who shared fond memories of their time here, others who already have trips booked and were seeking recommendations on activities and dining, and many more who aspire to visit. It was a pleasure highlighting our multi-island destination and sharing the many experiences that make the Turks and Caicos Islands truly special,” said Ms. Dowrich.
Awards & Recognition
Building on a stellar year of accolades in 2025, the Turks and Caicos Islands has begun 2026 with additional international recognition.
The destination earned a Gold Badge in the U.S. News & World Report rankings, placing #5 in Best Family Vacations in the Caribbean and #5 in Best Beaches in the World. In the USA Today 10Best Readers’ Choice Awards, Grand Turk was ranked #10 among the Best Caribbean Islands to Visit.
About Experience Turks and Caicos
Middle Caicos Dragon Cay Resort
Experience Turks and Caicos is the official destination marketing and management organisation (DMMO) for the Turks and Caicos Islands. The organisation is committed to positioning the destination as a premier, sustainable luxury tourism hub. By leveraging smart tools, data-driven strategies, and stakeholder collaboration, Experience Turks and Caicos focuses on enhancing the visitor experience and fostering long-term industry success.
About the Turks and Caicos Islands
The Turks and Caicos Islands consist of two island groups in the Lucayan Archipelago—the larger Caicos Islands and the smaller Turks Islands. Home to some of the world’s most pristine beaches, including the award-winning Grace Bay Beach, the destination is renowned for its crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxury accommodations, and rich cultural heritage. Each island and cay offer a unique experience:
- Providenciales boasts world-class resorts, fine dining, and high-end tourism offerings.
- Grand Turk serves as the vibrant hub for cruise tourism and historical exploration.
- The sister islands provide a gateway to nature, adventure, and authentic local culture.
Recognised as the world’s best-kept secret, the Turks and Caicos Islands offer effortless luxury, with seamless connectivity via direct flights from major cities in the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
Photo Captions:
Grand Turk – slow travel with us
North Caicos – Correy Forbes
South Caicos Sail Rock
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Wednesday, 25 February 2026: Staff of the Department of Disaster Management and Emergencies (DDME) participated in a one‑day Professional Staff Development Workshop on Thursday, 19th February 2026. The session was facilitated by former DDME Director (2011–2021) and current Permanent Secretary of the Governor’s Office, Dr. Virginia Clerveaux.
The in-house workshop was organised by the DDME Training Unit, to focus on the National Disaster Management Framework, strengthening staff understanding of their roles and responsibilities within disaster management. The session also aimed to enhance the effectiveness of the National Emergency Operations Centre (NEOC) and reinforce inter‑agency coordination.
Drawing on her extensive experience in disaster management in the Turks and Caicos Islands, as well as several deployments to CDEMA member states including Haiti, The Bahamas, and Jamaica, Dr. Clerveaux provided practical insights that reinforced key concepts and clarified operational expectations. Staff members actively participated in discussions and shared recommendations to improve sub‑committee performance and overall departmental efficiency.
To support learning retention, the workshop incorporated pre‑ and post‑assessments, enabling participants to evaluate their understanding and track improvements.
Acting Director of DDME, Mr. Kevaun Lucas stated: “Investing in the continued development of our team is essential to strengthening national resilience. This and future planned workshops will help to reinforce our commitment to building a highly skilled, well‑coordinated workforce capable of leading and supporting disaster management efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands. I am proud of the team’s engagement and encouraged by the meaningful contributions they made throughout the session.”
This Professional Staff Development Workshop forms part of DDME’s ongoing commitment to enhancing internal capacity, strengthening operational coordination and improving overall departmental synergy as the agency continues to advance national preparedness and response capabilities.
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Caribbean News
Liberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
Port of Spain, TRINIDAD & TOBAGO (February 24, 2026) — Liberty Caribbean, the operators of Flow, Liberty Business and BTC, recently served as Gold-Level Partner of the two-day Trinidad and Tobago Internet Governance Forum (TTIGF), themed “The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience”.
The Digital Divide is of particular interest to Liberty Caribbean and is being addressed through its Charitable Foundation across the region. Low broadband penetration in the Caribbean contributes to diminished opportunities for individuals, communities, and local economies, but with the support of funding partners, this gap can be addressed through a comprehensive programme – JUMP – that focuses on providing access, devices, and digital skills.
“Liberty Caribbean was proud to serve as Gold-Level Partner of the TTIGF because the conversations taking place here shape key digital
policies for multiple stakeholders,” said Simone Martin-Sulgan, Vice President and General Manager, Flow Trinidad.
“As technology accelerates at an unprecedented pace, we must ensure that innovation strengthens our societies rather than fragments them. The theme, ‘The Innovation Paradox – Balancing Progress with Responsibility and Resilience,’ speaks directly to the work we do every day: building networks that are not only fast and reliable, but secure, inclusive and future-ready.”
Across the Caribbean, the digital divide remains one of the most pressing barriers to equitable growth. Low broadband penetration limits access to education, entrepreneurship and essential services, and that is why we are deeply committed to closing this gap.
Through the Liberty Caribbean Charitable Foundation and initiatives like the JUMP Programme, the company is expanding access to technology, affordable connectivity and digital skills training so that individuals and communities are empowered to participate fully in the digital economy.
Martin-Sulgan further stated “at Liberty Caribbean, we believe progress and responsibility must move in lock step. By investing in resilient networks, inclusive programmes and trusted partnerships, we are helping to build a Caribbean that is innovative, secure and prepared for the opportunities ahead.”
Topics covered during the Forum, with over 140 participants, included “Securing Critical Infrastructure”, Integrating AI into Digital Transformation”, “The Digital Divide”, The Human Cost of Innovation – Mental Health and Well-being in the Digital Age’, and AI, Cyber Resilience and Regional Innovation”.
Focused on the underlying mandate of the Conference theme thought leaders, innovators, policymakers, technologists, researchers, and community stakeholders were invited to explore how countries can evolve boldly without compromising values or long-term stability.
Photo Caption:
TTIGF – l-r Darren Campo, Regulatory & Compliance Officer; Yolande Agard-Simmons, Senior Manager Communications; and Kevon Swift, Senior Manager Government and Regulatory Affairs of Flow Trinidad in attendance at the Post Event Mixer at Caribbean Telecommunications Union’s Head Office in St Clair, Port of Spain
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News4 days agoDDME Staff Strengthen Disaster Management Capacity Through Professional Development Workshop
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News1 week agoMulti-Agency Enforcement Action Conducted in Five Cays
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Caribbean News5 days agoLiberty Caribbean Supports Regional Forum on AI, Cyber Resilience and Digital Inclusion
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News4 days agoThe Turks and Caicos Islands Set Positive Start to 2026 with Increase in January Stayover Arrivals