Connect with us

News

SHAKEM CHARLES MAKES HISTORY AS TCI TOP MODEL’S FIRST MALE WINNER

Published

on

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands; Tuesday, June 3rd 2025 – History was made at Brayton Hall on Saturday night as Shakem Charles claimed the coveted title of TCI Top Model 2025, becoming the first male winner of Cycle 6 of the prestigious contest. With striking features, a jet-black skin tone, an athletic frame, and magnetic charisma, Contestant #1 captivated judges and audiences alike, earning the ultimate honour of becoming the Face of the Turks and Caicos.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  Born in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Shakem defied expectations to pursue fashion in a world where tradition often discouraged such dreams in young men. For the 5’11” model, fashion represents freedom, identity, and unapologetic self-expression. That spirit carried him to victory, with two pre-show titles already under his belt: the TCI Top Model’s Mainstream Media Award and Fan Favourite Challenge. But Shakem didn’t stop there. On finale night, he swept additional titles, including Industry Readiness, Model’s Portfolio Folder, and Best Body.

“This moment is a dream come true,” said an emotional Shakem. “Modelling has always been a passion of mine, and now I’m on the road to realising my full potential. Winning this title boosts not just my confidence, but I hope it inspires boys and young men everywhere to break barriers and chase their dreams. The sky is truly the limit.”

A bold voice in fashion, Shakem’s motto speaks volumes: Dream. Dare. Do.

The 2025 TCI Top Model Contest was a dazzling display of creativity and talent, featuring eight finalists and four runway segments: En Vogue (Impact Appeal), Urban Tropics (Runway Walk), Le Bead-Aime Jewellery Swimsuit Competition (Best Body), and Bold Elegance (Fashion Forward). Every look was trendsetting and fierce. The capacity audience in attendance did not disappoint, as they were impeccably dressed to impress.

Hubert Prospere and Shenylce Bello were named First and Second Runners-Up, respectively.

The night featured powerful performances by Dwayne Thomas (pre-show entertainer), Devonte Missick, TESS The Entertainer, and saxophonist Mohen Cox. Hosted by Zaria Inghram, the event also welcomed past Top Models Dr Trenisha Ashley Smith (2010), Washanda RegistreFrancis (2012), Alyx WilliamsTCI Top Model’s first featured male model; Mauqueita Carter, Miss Body Beautiful 2013; and Brittney Bien-Aime, the 2025 TCI Top Model Muse. Cycle 6 also featured legacy, plus size and mature models, showcasing diversity and inclusion.

The show opened with The Extravaganza, a runway spectacle themed in animal prints and fiery crimson, culminating with a powerful appearance by Courtney Robinson, Founder and Executive Producer of the TCI Top Model Organisation.

Reflecting on the success, Robinson shared, “I am immensely proud to lead a team driven by purpose, passion, and the unwavering belief in the power of our youth. The TCI Top Model Contest is not just a fashion showcase—it’s a transformative platform rooted in potential, empowerment, and creative expression. Our goal is to spark a movement, one that encourages every young person in these ‘Beautiful by Nature’ islands to dream without limits, to rise with confidence, and to help shape a vibrant, sustainable creative industry for generations to come.”

The 2025 show raised the bar to unprecedented heights, delivering a production that was bold, immersive, and emotionally resonant. A state-of-the-art LED screen dominated the Brayton Hall stage, featuring dynamic video montages that traced the rich history of the TCI Top Model Contest—its founding vision, rigorous training programme, event partners, and organising committee. Adding depth and heart to the experience were powerful opening and finale videos featuring each contestant, complete with impactful visuals, statistics, and personal statements. These multimedia elements gave the audience a deeper understanding of each model’s journey and aspirations. Striking photos and behind-the-scenes footage also captured defining moments, allowing attendees to connect with the contestants not just as models—but as voices, stories, and rising stars. It was a masterclass in storytelling and spectacle that left many in awe, wondering how the team will top this in 2026.

Bahamas News

Caribbean Bottling Supports the 27th Basketball Smiles Week  

Published

on

NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Bottling Company (CBC), local producers of Coca-Cola and Dasani products, is proud to once again support Basketball Smiles for their 27th year.

Upholding its corporate pillar of community outreach, CBC proudly donated $2,000, over 75 cases of Dasani, Powerade and Sprite, reusable Powerade water bottles and numerous marketing materials.

The annual sporting summer camp offers free basketball and life skills training to Junior and High School students.

Basketball Smiles’ mission of developing leadership qualities while fostering children’s academic achievement and self-esteem aligns perfectly with CBC’s commitment to supporting and empowering youth.

Jazmin Darling, Assistant Marketing Manager for Caribbean Bottling Company shared why the company continues to support this program each year.

“At CBC, we believe investing in our youth is one of the greatest ways to strengthen our communities. We’re proud to support Basketball Smiles each year because it goes beyond the game. This program champions healthy lifestyles, positive values and brighter futures. It’s a privilege to play a role in helping these young athletes reach their full potential each year,” she shared.

Sam Nicholls, Basketball Smiles Camp President and Founder expressed.

“Caribbean Bottling Company is an incredible partner. We are truly grateful for their generous support, which will go a long way in making a positive impact on the lives of our campers,” Nicholls expressed.

CBC is always ready to lend its support toward initiatives and programs that uplift young Bahamians. The impact Basketball Smiles makes on the community is undeniable and is why CBC remains a historic sponsor.

For more information on sponsorship, events and new products, visit www.cbcbahamas.com today.

Continue Reading

Bahamas News

CWS Supports Transforming Spaces with Premium Products and Unique Cocktails

Published

on

CWS brand representative for Bottega and Excellsior wines posing with attendees enjoying glasses of Bottega Gold Prosecco at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas.

NASSAU, Bahamas — Caribbean Wines and Spirits (CWS), The Bahamas’ premier wine and spirits distributor is thrilled to once again lend its support to Transforming Spaces (TS).

CWS is a proud historical partner of the annual art week which highlights Bahamian art and art spaces. Under this year’s theme, “Chasing Light” Transforming Spaces and Caribbean Wines & Spirits created a memorable art experience.

To mark 21 years of the upliftment and exposure of culture and Bahamian art, CWS offered award winning wines St. Francis, Rebellious, Bottega and Excellsior; premium spirits, Cross Keys Gin, El Tequileno Tequila, Angostura Rum and Nemiroff Vodka, along with the newly added Coors Light Beer from its portfolio.

To kickstart the annual art week, CWS delighted attendees with a tasting of globally renowned Bottega Wines at TS’ Poetry Jam, held at ICE Bahamas. Throughout the event, Bottega brand representatives shared tasting notes, ideal pairings, and insights into the brand’s portfolio.

During the highly anticipated Saturday and Sunday tours, CWS showcased its premium products at select art galleries.

Attendees enjoyed Rebellious and St. Francis wines at The Current: Baha Mar Art Gallery and Museum, Bottega and Excellsior wines at the National Art Gallery of The Bahamas, Coors Light beer at the University of The Bahamas Pro Gallery and hand-crafted Schweppes mixes featuring Cross Keys Gin, El Tequileno Tequila, Angostura Rum and Nemiroff Vodka at CAB Gallery & Studio.

Throughout the two-day tour, CWS product specialists enriched the experience by providing a deeper appreciation for their exceptional beverage portfolio.

Members of the Transforming Spaces Committee expressed their appreciation towards CWS’ support after another successful art week.

“Transforming Spaces is deeply grateful for the continued support of Caribbean Wines & Spirits over the years. Their partnership has become such an important part of the TS experience, helping us create welcoming and vibrant moments for our audiences across the tour weekend. From signature wines and cocktail bars to refreshments at gallery stops and pop-up events, their contribution brings an added sense of hospitality, celebration, and connection to the journey through Bahamian contemporary art.” — TS2026 Committee.

Caribbean Wines & Spirits is proud to partner with Transforming Spaces in supporting and elevating the voices and works of Bahamian artists and looks forward to strengthening this partnership for years to come.

To learn more about CWS’ involvement in the community, follow on social media @caribbeanwinesandspirits or visit the website at www.cwsbahamas.com today.

Continue Reading

Government

Government Outlines New Healthcare Vision as Interhealth Exit Accelerates Reform  

Published

on

By Magnetic Media Newsroom

 

PROVIDENCIALES, Turks and Caicos Islands — The Turks and Caicos Islands Government says the breakdown of its relationship with InterHealth Canada presents an opportunity to reshape healthcare delivery, with plans to expand local medical services, strengthen primary care and reduce dependence on overseas treatment.

During a national briefing following InterHealth Canada’s notice terminating its hospital contract, Premier Charles Washington Misick acknowledged publicly for the first time that Government and InterHealth had been negotiating an exit from the arrangement for more than a year after what he described as an “irretrievably broken down” relationship.

Despite the contractual dispute, Misick and Health Minister Kyle Knowles stressed that healthcare services will continue uninterrupted during the transition.

“Allow us to do our job,” Knowles appealed, assuring residents that Government is actively managing the transition and safeguarding patient care.

The Premier outlined what amounts to a broader healthcare transformation built around four connected levels of care: strengthened community-based primary healthcare; expanded polyclinic services; enhanced hospital-based secondary care with greater specialist capacity; and overseas tertiary treatment only for cases that cannot be managed locally.

Among the proposals are the long-discussed establishment of intensive care units, expanded use of currently unfinished hospital space, recruitment of more resident specialist physicians and stronger contract management to oversee future healthcare agreements.

Knowles said the new polyclinic model will broaden services available outside the hospitals, including dentistry, ophthalmology, laboratory services, diagnostic imaging, gynaecology and preventative screening, helping to reduce pressure on emergency departments while improving early intervention.

Misick also acknowledged that while the hospital system significantly improved healthcare access after opening in 2010, Government believes further reform is necessary to improve affordability, sustainability and the range of services available within the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The briefing marked the Government’s most comprehensive explanation to date of its plans beyond the InterHealth contract, signalling that officials now see the transition as an opportunity to redesign healthcare delivery rather than simply replace one operator with another.

Continue Reading

FIND US ON FACEBOOK

TRENDING