First-Ever Child Safeguarding Intergenerational Quiz Inspires Unity and Action in the Turks and Caicos Islands

PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE DEPARTMENT OF

SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT AND WELFARE

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Monday, 12 May 2025: On May 8, 2025, the Department of Social Development, under the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation, proudly hosted a Child Safeguarding Intergenerational Quiz at Beaches Turks and Caicos. This groundbreaking event transcended the boundaries of a typical competition, serving as a heartfelt call to action. It encouraged participants to deepen their understanding of child protection systems, principles and practices within the Turks and Caicos Islands while reflecting on their shared responsibility in safeguarding and ensuring the well-being of children.

The quiz brought together a vibrant mix of students, educators, and professionals from diverse backgrounds across the Turks and Caicos Islands. With its blend of education and engagement, the event fostered a greater awareness of child protection principles, teamwork, and community commitment. Seven spirited teams—Protectors United, Champions of Change, Safeguarding Heroes, Awareness Avengers, Hope Defenders, Child Rights Warriors, and Helping Hands Ambassadors—participated, each with four members: one primary school student, one high school student, and two adults representing various sectors.

In a display of knowledge and teamwork, Team Awareness Avengers emerged victorious. Comprising Nurse Geraldine Gomez from the Department of Behavioural Health Services, Ms. Regena Little, Principal of the SNAP Centre, Eli Adams from Shining Stars Preparatory School, and Jeffica Forbes from Clement Howell School, the team dominated the preliminary, semifinal, and championship, becoming the first champions of this landmark event. The second and third places were claimed by the Hope Defenders and Child Rights Warriors, who represented the islands of North and Middle Caicos.

Director Forbes of the Department of Social Development and Welfare expressed heartfelt pride in the success of the event, emphasising its significance in uniting the community around a vital cause. She announced plans to make the Child Safeguarding Intergenerational Quiz an annual tradition, envisioning an even broader reach. The future editions will extend invitations to a wider selection of schools, including private institutions, alongside participants from the public and private sectors, NGOs, and community members. “As our devotion to strengthening families and protecting children continues to be realised,” Director Forbes shared, “it is important for me to emphasise that child safeguarding awareness activities and trainings are ongoing efforts throughout the year. This commitment aligns with our mission to foster a zero-tolerance community against child abuse.”

The Department extends its deepest gratitude to all participants, supporters, and stakeholders who made this historic event possible. Together, we have taken a meaningful step forward in creating a brighter, safer future for the children of the Turks and Caicos Islands.