TCI News
The Department of Gender Affairs Leads Critical Training on Domestic Violence Ordinance and Mental Health Response in Turks and Caicos Islands
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands 31 July 2025 — The Department of Gender Affairs within the Ministry of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs and Transportation successfully hosted a comprehensive two-day Multi-Sector Stakeholders Training on the Domestic Violence Ordinance and Mental Health Response, held July 10-11 at the Atrium Conference Room in Providenciales. This all-encompassing initiative brought together key stakeholders from various sectors, including law enforcement, healthcare providers, social workers, and community leaders, to deepen their understanding of the Domestic Violence Ordinance and the critical role they play in addressing the mental health impacts associated with domestic violence. The event also focused on strengthening governance, justice, security, and social welfare frameworks addressing gender-based violence in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
This important training session aimed to support and advance the implementation of the National Domestic Violence Ordinance while
addressing the mental health consequences tied to domestic abuse. Participants included representatives from the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force, the Ministry of Border Force, TCI Red Cross, Inter-Health Canada, the Department of Social Development, the Ministry of Education, the Human Rights Commissioner, and the Department of Behavioural Health Services.
The first day was facilitated by the Grace Bay Medical Centre team, led by Medical Director Dr. Sam Slattery and psychologist Ms. Daniela Hernandez. The session covered a range of topics, including trauma and emotional dysregulation, the physical effects of trauma, brain function impact from abuse, stress management in high-pressure environments, and self-care strategies for professionals working with survivors. Day two was presented by the Attorney General’s Chambers with Chief Parliamentary Counsel Dr. Gogontle K. Gatang-McCartney providing an in-depth review of the Domestic Violence Ordinance.
Honourable Shaun Malcolm, Minister of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs, and Transportation, praised the training during his opening remarks, emphasizing the unwavering commitment of the government to tackling domestic violence and supporting victims. He further stated that “Addressing domestic violence and its far-reaching consequences on mental health is a top priority for the government.” This reassurance from the government’s highest levels underscores the seriousness with which this issue is being addressed.
Mrs. Carolyn Dickenson, Director of Gender Affairs, highlighted the session’s significance, stating, “This training is vital to equipping frontline workers with the knowledge and tools they need to support survivors and uphold the National Domestic Violence Ordinance effectively. We are dedicated to providing ongoing resources to those on the front lines of this important work.”
The success of this training session showed the department’s dedication to creating a safer, more equitable society. By equipping frontline
workers with the necessary knowledge and tools, we strengthen stakeholders’ ability to support those affected by domestic violence. The Department encourages all agencies to implement the learned strategies and maintain open communication channels for ongoing support and collaboration. This commitment to continuous improvement and adaptation ensures that future sessions will build upon this foundation, incorporating feedback from participants and adapting to emerging needs within our community.
We are committed to our mandate as the leading agency to promote gender equality, gender equity and gender mainstreaming. Therefore, we will continue to prioritize efforts that strengthen the support framework for gender-based violence, ensuring a coordinated, sensitive, and effective response across all sectors throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.
For more information on the Department of Gender Affairs and available resources, please contact us at:
Telephone: 649-338-2681 (Grand Turk), 649-338-2686 (Providenciales)
Email: genderaffairs@gov.tc
Stay connected with us for upcoming activities and initiatives through our social media platforms:
Facebook: facebook.com/genderaffairstci
Instagram: @genderaffairstci
TCI News
Turks and Caicos Islands Reaffirms Status as Premier Beach and Romance Destination at World Travel Awards
Turks and Caicos, September 21, 2025 – On Sunday, September 21st, 2025, the United States Coast Guard Southeast (USCG), working
in coordination with the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force (RT&CIPF) Marine Branch, the TCI Regiment, and the TCI Border Force, intercepted a vessel carrying 103 migrants bound for Providenciales.
The suspicious vessel, first tracked by the USCG, was stopped at sea and later secured by the Sea Guardian vessel, which towed it safely to South Dock Marina. Upon arrival, the migrants were disembarked and handed over to the TCI Border Force for processing.
A breakdown of those on board confirmed:
- 75 males (including two minors)
- 28 females (including two minors)
This interception marks the 18th such operation in 2025, bringing the total number of migrants detained this year to 1,510. The RT&CIPF thanks the USCG and local agencies for their close cooperation, noting that this successful outcome demonstrates the effectiveness of layered security measures protecting the Turks and Caicos Islands. The Force reminds the public that illegal migration is dangerous and life-threatening, and violations of the law will not be tolerated.
Anyone with information on illegal migration is urged to contact the nearest police station, call 911, the Serious Crime Unit at 231-1842, or report anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477 or via the P3 app.
Photos Courtesy: Turks and Caicos Islands Border Force
TCI News
Invest Turks and Caicos Celebrates a Decade of Innovation and Impact at 4th Annual General Meeting
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands – September 19, 2025 – Invest Turks and Caicos Islands Agency (Invest TCI) proudly hosted its 4th Annual General Meeting (AGM) on Tuesday, September 16, 2025, at the Ritz Carlton, Turks and Caicos, marking a historic milestone, under the theme ‘ Celebrating a Decade of Innovation and Impact’.
The celebratory event brought together government officials, investors, developers, business leaders, and community stakeholders as the
agency reflected on ten years of strategic growth and outlined its vision for the next decade.
The meeting was called to order by Chairlady, Ms. Cindy Ewing, who welcomed the full house with energy and gratitude. She acknowledged the partnerships which have fuelled Invest TCI’s success over its first ten years. In her remarks, she stated, ‘This agency was created with a clear purpose, to attract sustainable investment that would strengthen our economy and open new doors for our people’.
The evening continued with a powerful address from Honourable Premier Charles Washington Misick, emphasizing the role of innovation, sustainability, and inclusive development as cornerstones of the country’s future. He reaffirmed government’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for investment, community-driven infrastructure, and balanced growth. Building on that vision, Her Excellency, Acting Governor Anya Williams reflected on how the landscape has shifted from TCI once seeking foreign investors to now being actively pursued. She emphasized that with this new dynamic, growth must remain sustainable, protect the environment, and deliver lasting benefits for the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Delivering the agency’s annual performance report, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove outlined achievements during the 2024–2025 financial year. These included the first Youth Business Summit, the opening of a new office in Grand Turk, the launch of the Community Pop-Up Series, the approval of the Heritage Turks and Caicos Islander Investment Policy, and advancement of the Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) Policy. She also reflected on a decade of accomplishments, noting how Invest TCI has expanded its reach, strengthened its impact, and positioned the islands for greater opportunity.
A Ten Years in Review video presentation followed, sparking applause and pride as it highlighted milestones in national development. The film set the stage for an invigorating panel discussion under the theme “The Next Horizon: Catalyzing Economic Development through Investment,” moderated by financial expert Mr. Drexwell Seymour.
The panel featured an extraordinary lineup: Premier Hon. Charles Washington Misick, former Premiers Hon. Galmo Williams and Hon. Dr. Rufus Ewing, CEO Mrs. Angela Musgrove, and youth leader Ms. Arielle Neely. The discussion highlighted not only the perspectives of national leaders but also the entrepreneurial achievements of the former Premiers, both of whom have successfully built businesses that continue to contribute to the Turks and Caicos economy. The presence of three seasoned leaders alongside Invest TCI’s chief executive and a dynamic youth voice captivated the audience, underscoring both the depth of experience and the promise of the next generation.
The discussion was focused on how investment can power sustainable growth and resilience in the Turks and Caicos Islands. Key themes included sustainable development, innovation and technology, local business competitiveness, youth integration, and public-private collaboration. Panelists emphasized the need for robust legislative frameworks and compliance, while highlighting human capital development as the cornerstone of future progress. Ms. Neely added a compelling youth perspective, calling for measurable inclusion through Youth Impact data and innovative financing models to ensure young people are active stakeholders in shaping the economy.
As part of the anniversary celebration, Invest TCI also launched the Inaugural Developer Awards, created to recognize developers who demonstrate exceptional commitment to inclusive, responsible, and impactful development. The awards spotlighted projects that extended beyond commercial success to deliver meaningful community value.
Two award categories were introduced:
- Sustainability Trailblazer: Recognizing developers who lead in building sustainable legacies through infrastructure, cultural preservation, and enduring community partnerships.
- Community Impact Award: Honouring developers who have made the most visible social contributions through job creation, training, community programs, and philanthropy.
Submissions showcased initiatives such as recycling and composting programs, eliminating single-use plastics, landscaping with indigenous vegetation, and investments in renewable energy. Many also reflected consistent support for local charities, reinforcing the vision of development that uplifts both the economy and the community.
Nominees included The Hartling Group, Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos), Grace Bay Resorts, Waterloo Investments Holdings Ltd., and JEM TCI Holdings Ltd. (Salterra Resort & Spa). Grace Bay Resorts received the Sustainability Trailblazer Award, while Sandals Group (Beaches Turks and Caicos) was honoured with the Community Impact Award.
Other memorable moments of the evening included two luxury raffle draws and a special recognition presented to Ms. Sheryl McLaughlin for five years of dedicated service to the agency.
The evening concluded with closing remarks from Deputy Chair Mr. Walter Gardiner, who expressed heartfelt gratitude to all participants and extended appreciation to the organizers for delivering a successful and memorable celebration.
