News
Turks and Caicos Islands Community College Celebrates 29th Annual Commencement Ceremony
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands — On Thursday, 28 November 2024, the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College (TCICC) proudly hosted its 29th Annual Commencement Ceremony under the inspiring theme: “30 Years of Developing Our Nation-Builders: Honouring the Past, Embracing the Present, Inspiring the Future.” The event, held at the Yellowman and Sons Auditorium, marked a historic milestone with a record-breaking 194 graduates from the Associate, Bachelor’s, and TVET (Technical and Vocational Education and Training) programmes.
Among the 194 graduates, 69 earned Associate degrees, 29 completed Bachelor’s degrees, and 96 were TVET trainees. Demonstrating academic excellence, 25% of the Associate degree graduates achieved Dean’s List recognition with GPAs above 3.5, while Bachelor’s graduates celebrated a range of honours classifications: 14% earned Upper Second-Class Honours, 69% achieved Lower Second-Class Honours, and 17% secured a Pass.
The ceremony was attended by an audience of over 500, including distinguished dignitaries such as Acting Governor, Her Excellency Anya Williams; Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education; Honourable Otis Morris, Minister of Home Affairs; and Honourable Josephine Connolly, Minister of Tourism. Also present were other past and current government officials, families and well-wishers of the graduands,
as well as the dedicated staff and faculty of the Turks and Caicos Islands Community College.
The Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, commended the graduating class and paid tribute to the institution’s rich legacy. She remarked, “As the Minister with responsibilities for Education, I was delighted to witness the graduation ceremony for the cohort of students who walked across the stage and received their certificate in their field of study. Our students have been resilient in their efforts to empower themselves through education. It was enlightening to witness the (ninety-six) 96 candidates who were certified and received their Caribbean Vocational Qualifications (CVQs) through our Technical Vocational Education Training (TVET) from all our training sites on Providenciales, Grand Turk, South Caicos and the Prison. It blessed my heart to witness twenty (20) inmates receiving their certification. We truly believe that inmates who have access to and benefit from an education while in prison, develop marketable skills and are better equipped to reintegrate into society upon release. With this initiative in place and being strengthened to offer additional areas of study, our inmates are more likely to secure stable employment, contribute to their communities, and break the cycle of recidivism. As a Government, we have partnered with Invest TCI for entrepreneurial opportunities upon completion of our TVET programme. Our boost in registration at TCICC with over 38% increase in enrollment, is a testament of our intent to building Human Capital through Free Access to our community college.”
In her remarks, TCICC President Dr. Candice Williams highlighted the College’s enduring impact on the community, stating, “TCICC’s achievements this year are a testament to our commitment to excellence—TVET certifications soared by 109%, the Dean’s List grew by 169%, and 80% of our students benefit from free tuition. These achievements are transformative. They represent lives changed, communities empowered, and a nation enriched.”
A unique highlight of the event was the graduation of 20 inmates from the HM Prison under TCICC’s TVET Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) programme. These graduates were praised by staff at the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation for showing remarkable transformation in attitude and outlook, emphasising the College’s commitment to inclusive education and societal reintegration.
The ceremony also featured an inspiring address from three former leaders of TCICC: Rev. Dr. Julia Williams, Dr. Hubert Fulford, and Mrs. Clara Gardiner. Each shared heartfelt reflections on the College’s legacy while issuing powerful charges to the graduates to embrace their roles as changemakers in the community.
As TCICC continues to celebrate its 30th anniversary, this year’s commencement ceremony serves as a resounding testament to its pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future.
Link to Photos: TCICC 29th Commencement Ceremony Images
For further information, please contact:
June-Ann Campbell mco@tcicc.edu.tc
Marketing and Communications Officer
3 Success Way, Butterfield, Providenciales
Turks and Caicos Islands
TKCA 1ZZ
Head to bed in a bra to reduce breast pain, nipple irritation and stretch marks
When you think about sleeping in a bra, “comfort” probably isn’t the first word that comes to mind — it may not even make the Top 10. But is it bad to sleep with a bra on?
Breast surgical oncologist Margaret Thompson, MD, explains the upsides and downsides of wearing a bra while you snooze.
Should you sleep in a bra?
Several factors may affect your decision to wear a bra to bed, but Dr. Thompson emphasizes that the risk of breast cancer should not be one of them.
“There’s no evidence that wearing a bra while sleeping increases your risk for breast cancer,” she states. “It really comes down to comfort and personal preference.”
But there are also other health issues to consider. Dr. Thompson lays out the pros and cons of sleeping in a bra.
Pros: Why sleeping in a bra might be good for you
Should you wear a bra to bed? There are some benefits, especially if you’re recovering from surgery or breastfeeding.
Lessens breast pain
Having the support of a bra day and night may help relieve breast pain (mastalgia). That’s good news, because up to 70% of women in the United States deal with it at some point in their lives.
Common causes include:
- Hormonal changes, which often occur as part of your menstrual cycle
- Locally advanced breast cancer, including inflammatory breast cancer
- Lactation (producing milk), which may cause your breasts to ache
- Large breasts, which may strain breast ligaments and tissue
- Recent surgery related to your heart or breasts
- Underwires, especially if your bras are too tight
“When somebody reports breast pain, one of the first things we ask is whether they wear an underwire bra,” shares Dr. Thompson. “It can dig into your skin or breast tissue, leaving you sore and tender.”
A soft sleep bra can keep your breasts from shifting and causing discomfort while you snooze.
Protects lactating breasts
If you’re breastfeeding, you know all too well that your mammary glands don’t care if you’re trying to rest. Swollen or full breasts can be painful, especially as you move during sleep or change positions. Wearing a clean and supportive bra while sleeping:
- Holds nursing pads in place
- Keeps nipples dry and free from bacteria
- Reduces nipple chafing
- Supports the structure of your breasts
Make sure your sleep bra is supportive, but not too tight. Wearing a bra that’s too tight while breastfeeding can lower your milk production and possibly lead to clogged milk ducts and mastitis — inflammation of the breast tissue.
Prevents fungal infections
Everyone loves to be warm and cozy in bed. But do you know what else loves a warm environment? Fungus.
“There’s a lot of skin-on-skin contact underneath your breasts, especially if you have larger breasts,” notes Dr. Thompson. “If you’re also
covered in blankets and sweating, it becomes a perfect environment for fungal or yeast infections.”
Wearing a bra to bed helps absorb moisture beneath your breasts and reduce friction. A camisole with a built-in shelf bra can also help.
Reduces nipple irritation
Friction is a common reason for nipple pain — ask any avid runner. You may not be running a marathon in your sleep, but your nipples can still get sore from rubbing against:
- Tight shirts, especially if they’re textured or have a graphic design that can be felt inside the shirt
- The fabric of your pajama top or sheets
- A sleep bra that’s too loose
Wearing a sleep bra can limit movement, easing nipple irritation.
Helps with recovery after surgery
It’s important to keep your breasts compressed after certain surgeries involving your chest. Restricting breast movement helps protect stitches and incisions. The added compression can also:
- Decrease fluid collection
- Minimize pain
- Hold gauze and drains in place
“Most cardiac and breast surgeons want you to wear a bra for some time after surgery, even while sleeping,” emphasizes Dr. Thompson. “Always follow their advice.”
Diminishes stretch marks
Stretch marks on breasts are common, especially if your breasts change size during pregnancy. Bras support your skin’s structure, which helps prevent stretch marks.
“There’s no proof that wearing a bra at any time of day will decrease breast sagginess,” Dr. Thompson clarifies. “But it may help decrease stretch marks.”
Cons: Why it’s bad to sleep with a bra on
Looking for a reason to sleep without strapping on a bra? Dr. Thompson points out a few potential disadvantages of sleeping in a bra.
Causes skin irritation and infection
A sleep bra can protect your skin from irritation and infection. But it can also cause those issues if it has an underwire or it’s:
- Dirty
- Too tight
- Too loose
Restricts circulation
“Bras that are too tight or contain underwires may cause you to wake up with some discomfort,” reiterates Dr. Thompson. “They can restrict your circulation while you sleep.”
Nobody wants to wake up to find that their bra left angry red indents in its wake. That’s why selection is key.
Tips for wearing a bra to bed
If you decide to sleep in a bra, choose one that’s comfortable and fits well — not too tight, not too loose. And be sure to replace your bras every six to 12 months, or whenever your breast size changes. Measure yourself or ask the fitter at your lingerie store or undergarments department for help finding the right size.
For the best experience with your sleep bra, Dr. Thompson recommends that you:
- Choose a gentle fabric. Avoid lace or scratchy fabrics that may be rough on your nipples. Choose a natural material like cotton or something silky and soft.
- Consider a shelf bra. Some camisoles and tank tops have a built-in shelf bra that may help you feel supported while sleeping.
- Skip the underwire. Underwire can restrict circulation and cause pain while you sleep.
- Wear a clean bra. Don’t wear a bra you’ve worn all day, and wash your sleep bras regularly — after every two or three wears.
Bottom line? If you choose to sleep in a bra, you want one that’s supportive and comfortable. If it interferes with your sleep, it’s not the right fit.
The Bahamas, August 27, 2026 – The Royal Bahamas Police Force wishes to inform members of the public that several individuals are scheduled to appear before the Magistrate’s Court on Thursday, 27th August 2026, at 12:00 noon.
The individuals and charges are as follows:
An 18-year-old female is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
Three (3) counts of Murder
Three (3) counts of Attempted Murder
Three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm with Intent to Endanger Life
Three (3) counts of Possession of an Unlicensed Firearm
Two (2) counts of Possession of Ammunition
Armed Robbery
Abetment to Armed Robbery
Stealing
Receiving
The charges stem from three separate shooting incidents and an armed robbery that occurred on Friday, 21st August 2026, and Saturday, 22nd August 2026.
The first shooting occurred in the area of Soldier Road and Baillou Hill Road, resulting in the death of a 51-year-old male.
The second shooting occurred in the area of Joe Farrington Road, resulting in the death of a 52-year-old male.
The third shooting occurred in the area of Gladstone Road, resulting in the death of a 36-year-old male.
The armed robbery occurred at a business establishment in the area of Carmichael Road and Baillou Hill Road.
A 21-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on one charge of:
- Murder
The charge stems from a shooting incident that occurred on Tuesday, 21st July 2026, in the area of Samson Street, Nassau Village, which resulted in the death of a 28-year-old male.
A 32-year-old male is scheduled to be arraigned on the following charges:
- Murder
- Attempted Murder
These charges stem from a shooting incident that occurred on Wednesday, 24th December 2025, in the area of Graham Drive, Yellow Elder, which resulted in the death of a 25-year-old male.
RBPF, PACD
by Deandrea Hamilton | Editor
PROVIDENCIALES, TCI — In a country where government press conferences are virtually non-existent, ministers are often difficult for
journalists to access and regular broadcast television news has disappeared, TCI Innovation, Technology and Energy Minister E. Jay Saunders has challenged Caribbean media to become “impossible to ignore.”
Speaking at the Caribbean Broadcasting Union gathering, Saunders argued that the Caribbean does not have a relevance problem but a “discoverability and positioning problem.”
Discoverability is precisely the issue in Saunders’ home country. Even Government’s own attempts at video news broadcasting have struggled against the realities of consistently producing a daily, weekly or even monthly newscast.
The difficulties confronting TCI media extend well beyond algorithms: limited advertising revenue, underfunding, shortages of trained professionals and insufficient human capacity leave newsrooms struggling for both staff and stamina.
Then there is the reality of operating in one of the region’s smallest societies. Politicians, journalists, advertisers, businesses and the subjects of stories often exist within the same tight economic and social circles. A controversial report that might create a ripple elsewhere can produce a tsunami in TCI, intensifying concerns among journalists about commercial and professional victimisation.
Saunders believes AI can help.
He urged Caribbean media to use the technology to transform one original story into television, radio, web, podcast, social and translated content without multiplying newsroom workload.
He also wants regional journalism structured so AI systems can find, understand and trust Caribbean sources, moving media beyond traditional SEO into Answer Engine Optimisation.
His ultimate message was emphatic: “Use AI not to make Caribbean media more artificial — but to make Caribbean voices more visible.”
For Turks and Caicos media, however, becoming visible may require more than technology. It requires an environment in which journalism can survive.
That last sentence is where I think we land the plane. It acknowledges that EJ actually has some us
