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A Grounded Start to Mental Health Awareness Month: ‘Morning Pause’ Sets the Tone in Providenciales

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PRESS RELEASE

FROM THE MINISTRY OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES

Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands, 23rd May 2025 – Mental Health Awareness Month 2025 began with a powerful and heartfelt gathering as the Department of Behavioural Health Services hosted its first Morning Pause & Panel Discussion on May 7th on the island of Providenciales. The event was held under the timely theme “Mental Health: Working in Paradise”, and centered on the local focus of “Community and Bridging Gaps.”

Moderated by Ms. Tiara McTaire, Mental Health Education Specialist, the morning session created space for meaningful dialogue, practical insights, and shared experiences from both panelists and attendees.

Panelists included:

  • Dr. Jadetra Ingraham, Clinical Psychologist at the Department of Behavioural Health Services
  • Mrs. Stacey-Ann Wharton Albert, Director of Human Resources, Culture, and Community Affairs at Sailrock, South Caicos, Chairperson of the People Development Committee, and Vice President of the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association (TCHTA)
  • Mrs. Joanna Fortunate, Director of Human Resources at Grace Bay Club

The session was opened by Dr. Alicia Malcolm, Director of the Department of Behavioural Health Services, who offered heartfelt remarks on the department’s commitment to bringing mental health and wellness conversations into every corner of the community, from government to hospitality, and beyond. She emphasized that this year’s approach is not just about awareness, but about connection, collaboration, and sustained action,

The discussion touched on real workplace challenges and opportunities, including how employers are investing in the holistic well-being of their teams, how individuals can take charge of their mental wellness, and how available resources can be better accessed and shared. The conversation was honest and relatable, with an emphasis on not just surviving work in paradise but thriving in it.

Participants shared their own stories and questions, creating a sense of belonging and unity in the room. Many left expressing that they felt less overwhelmed, more hopeful, and, most importantly, with a personal plan of action they could take back to their teams and incorporate into their daily lives.

Commenting on the initiative, Hon. Minister of Health and Human Services, Kyle Knowles stated that “This panel is part of a larger series of events and initiatives by the Department aimed at bridging gaps between sectors, services, and everyday experiences, helping to normalize mental health as part of the broader community conversation. This was more than a panel, it was a reminder that we’re not alone, and that with the right support, together, we can create healthier workplaces and stronger communities.”

For more information, please contact the Department of Behavioural Health Services:

Zone 1 (Grand Turk/South Caicos, Salt Cay) 649 338 3613

Zone 2 (Providenciales, North & Middle Caicos) 649 338 3616

Also, be sure to visit our website www.gov.tc/dmhsd and follow our social media accounts www.facebook.com/TCIDBHS and @TCIDBHS on Instagram.

News

Flow TCI powers Inter-High Track and Field Championships  

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (March 5, 2026) – As the Turks and Caicos sporting community celebrates the spirit of youth athleticism, leading telecoms provider, Flow is highlighting the transformative power of connectivity following the successful conclusion of the 2026 Inter-High Track and Field Championships held at the Turks and Caicos Islands National Stadium from February 26 to 28.

As the Official Media Sponsor for the event, Flow provided livestreaming services that premiered across social media and on Flow TV’s Channel 111. This ensured that families and fans throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands could witness every record-breaking moment. To keep the event running at top speed, Flow also provided broadband services throughout the venue, maintaining seamless connectivity throughout the games.

“Our long-standing partnership with the Turks and Caicos Islands Sports Commission is a shared promise to invest in the next generation. Over the years we have worked together to create opportunities for young people to train, compete and grow,” said Joanne Missick, Country Manager, Flow Turks and Caicos Islands.

“We make this investment because sport develops more than athletes. It’s a long-term investment for us in our people, pride and possibility, and it’s a partnership we hold close because advancing our youth advances the entire nation.”

The commitment to the Games extended directly to the track, where Flow served as the headline sponsor for the 200-meter category. Spanning seven races, the partnership culminated during the official medal ceremony with the company presenting winners with Flow merchandise bags.

Off the track, Flow mobilised engagement through the interactive sales booth. The site became a hub for activity, featuring Spin the Wheel promotions and gift certificate giveaways during Q&A intermissions, ensuring the energy of the crowd remained high.

Looking ahead, Flow is preparing to carry this momentum into the upcoming Inter-Primary Track and Field Championships, continuing its investment in the next generation of sporting talent in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

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News

Police Commissioner Honoured with Distinguished Civic Service Award at TCHTA Star Awards

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Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey has been recognised for his contribution to national security and the tourism industry, receiving the Distinguished Civic Service Award at the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association’s Star Awards held on February 19, 2026 at Beaches Turks and Caicos.

The annual awards ceremony is the premier recognition event for the territory’s hospitality sector, bringing together industry leaders, executives and frontline professionals to celebrate excellence and the individuals whose work strengthens the destination’s global reputation.

Commissioner Bailey was honoured for his strategic leadership in the fight against crime and the measurable reductions in major offences, efforts widely credited with improving public confidence and reinforcing the Turks and Caicos Islands’ standing as a safe and competitive tourism jurisdiction.

In accepting the award, the Commissioner dedicated the recognition to the officers and staff of the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, praising their commitment and professionalism in what he described as a collective national effort to make the islands more secure.

The TCHTA Star Awards spotlight the link between public safety and tourism performance, acknowledging that a stable and safe environment is essential to visitor confidence, investment and the continued growth of the sector.

This year’s ceremony featured high-energy hosting by Super P the Entertainer, with Omega serving as awards announcer, as the industry gathered to honour the people and partnerships that continue to elevate the Turks and Caicos brand.

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Health

TCI Hospital Celebrates Successful “Heart Strong TCI” Initiative During Heart Month

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(Providenciales – Monday, March 2, 2026) TCI Hospital proudly announces the successful achievement of its Heart Strong TCI initiative, a comprehensive Heart Month campaign focused on raising awareness and strengthening cardiovascular disease prevention efforts across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the Turks and Caicos Islands, highlighting the critical need for sustained public education, risk-factor reduction, and early intervention. The Heart Strong TCI initiative was designed to actively engage the community through education, outreach, and physical activity.

Key Activities Included:

Educational Training Sessions

Healthcare professionals conducted structured sessions addressing hypertension, diabetes, cholesterol management, nutrition, exercise, smoking cessation, and the early warning signs of heart disease.

House Call Talk Show Feature

A dedicated Heart Month episode of the hospital’s House Call program provided expert discussion on cardiovascular risk factors and prevention strategies, empowering viewers with practical, evidence-based guidance.

Red Fridays Awareness Campaign

Throughout the month, staff wore red every Friday to increase visibility around heart disease awareness and reinforce the campaign’s message within the community.

Heart Strong 5K Walk/Run

In collaboration with the Rotary Club, TCI Hospital hosted a community-wide 5K walk/run to promote physical activity as a cornerstone of heart health. The walk/run also provided an opportunity for community screening.

Digital Health Education Campaign

To expand its reach, TCI Hospital also shared ongoing heart health education tips and prevention messages across its social media platforms, including Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram. These posts provided actionable guidance on diet, exercise, blood pressure control, and lifestyle modification, and encouraging community members to learn CPR.

Heart Strong TCI: A Continuous Commitment

While Heart Month has officially ended, Heart Strong TCI represents an ongoing institutional commitment to cardiovascular disease prevention and awareness. TCI Hospital will continue to prioritize:

  • Community-based education initiatives
  • Preventative screening and early detection programs
  • Lifestyle and wellness promotion
  • Strategic partnerships that advance public health outcomes

“Heart Strong TCI is not limited to a single month,” CEO, Dr. Denise Braithwaite-Tennant.  “Cardiovascular disease prevention requires sustained effort. We remain committed to promoting healthy hearts across the Turks and Caicos Islands year-round.”

For more information about cardiovascular health services or upcoming screening initiatives, please contact TCI Hospital at 649-941-2800 in Providenciales, 649-941-2900 in Grand Turk or email us at info@interhealthcanada.tc

About TCI Hospital

TCI Hospital is dedicated to delivering high-quality healthcare services to the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, with a strong emphasis on prevention, education, and community wellness.

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