TCI News
TCI Top Models Take New York by Storm: A Global Future in Sight
NEW YORK CITY, New York– Monday, 25th August, 2025 —Three of the Turks and Caicos Islands’ brightest rising stars have taken a major leap toward international modelling success following a transformative and career-shaping journey to New York City, the beating heart of the global fashion industry.
Shakem Charles, TCI Top Model 2025; Brittney Bien-Amie, TCI Top Model Muse 2025; and Hubert Prospere, Cycle 6 First Runner-Up, recently travelled to the fashion capital with a clear goal: to meet with leading fashion and commercial agencies and secure international representation that could launch their careers onto the global stage.
Curated and led by Courtney Robinson, Executive Producer and Founder of the TCI Top Model Contest, the visit was more than a talent showcase—it was a strategic career development initiative aimed at placing TCI models on par with the world’s top talent.
“This trip marked an essential next step in elevating our models from local promise to international prospects,” said Robinson. “Our meetings confirmed what we already knew—TCI talent is world-class. The response from agencies has been overwhelmingly positive, and our models represented both themselves and the Turks and Caicos Islands with pride, poise, and professionalism.”
Over several days, the trio participated in a rigorous schedule of agency interviews with top-tier fashion and commercial representation, runway walk assessments, digital photoshoots, and self-taped auditions. Each model left a strong impression on industry executives, setting the stage for potential signings with agencies that have global networks spanning US states: New York, Los Angeles and Chicago, along with international cities: London, Milan and Paris.
In between meetings, the models explored New York’s most iconic neighbourhoods and cultural landmarks, absorbing the city’s dynamic
energy and artistic spirit. Highlights included the cobblestone streets of SoHo, the edgy vibrance of the Lower East Side, the architectural grandeur of Hudson Yards and the bright lights of Times Square. At The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA), they explored the exhibitions Face Value: Celebrity Press Photography, The Many Lives of the Nakagin Capsule Tower, and Oasis in the City. At The Metropolitan Museum of Art, they experienced Superfine: Tailoring Black Style, Lorna Simpson: Source Notes, and Arts of Africa and Oceania. These cultural encounters provided creative fuel and deepened the models’ understanding of global aesthetics, visual storytelling, and self-expression.
Reflecting on his experience, Shakem Charles shared, “Walking into those agencies in New York felt like stepping into a vision I’ve carried quietly for years—something I wasn’t sure would happen so soon. It wasn’t just a series of interviews—it was a pivotal moment that sharpened my focus and deepened my resolve. Each meeting confirmed that this is where I’m meant to be. I’m no longer watching from the sidelines—I’m ready to take my place on the world stage.”
Brittney Bien-Amie, who captivated agencies with her commanding presence, said, “New York was surreal—like watching pieces of my own dream come to life. I’ve always held this vision in my heart, but to actually be seen, heard, and embraced by some of the biggest names in the industry—it was overwhelming in the best way. I wasn’t just showing them my portfolio—I was showing them my journey. And I walked out knowing, not hoping, that I belong. This is just the beginning of something bigger than I ever imagined.”
Hubert Prospere, known for his sharp editorial edge, added, “This trip wasn’t just about meeting agencies—it was about proving to myself and the world that I belong at the highest levels of this industry. Every meeting, every look, every conversation confirmed that my talent and professionalism stand shoulder to shoulder with the best. The agencies were genuinely impressed, not only by my portfolio but also by the passion and discipline I showed. This is not the finish line—it’s the launching pad for a path that will take us well beyond what we envisioned. The possibilities ahead are limitless.”
What especially stood out to the agencies was the calibre of the models’ portfolios, built in collaboration with leading TCI Top Model’s creative forces—particularly renowned local photographer Renau Destine, who has been a mainstay of the creative team since 2012. His work has helped shape the visual identity of the competition and prepared the models for the international spotlight, ensuring their materials matched the standard of top global talent.
With meetings concluded and follow-ups underway, the models are now awaiting final decisions regarding agency representation, development deals, and placement in international markets. Many of the agencies have affiliate offices across major fashion hubs, opening doors to careers that span continents.
“This moment isn’t just about modelling,” Robinson emphasised. “It’s about representation, visibility, and proving that world-class talent can come from anywhere—even a small island nation. This is a win not just for the models, but for the Turks and Caicos Islands as a whole.”
As they return home to await the next chapter, one thing is clear: they didn’t just visit New York—they made their mark.
Turks and Caicos, October 28, 2025 – We are closely monitoring the impact of Hurricane Melissa on Jamaica, and our thoughts and prayers are with our regional neighbours for their safety and well-being
We are now entering a critical period as Hurricane Melissa advances towards the Turks and Caicos Islands. Current projections indicate that Hurricane Melissa will begin to impact the Turks and Caicos Islands around midday tomorrow, Wednesday, 29th October.
This morning, Her Excellency the Governor and the Hon. Premier chaired a State of Preparedness Meeting. All Government agencies and critical services are mobilised. The safety and protection of every person across our Islands remains our highest priority. Our emergency response teams are prepared and the TCI Regiment is deployed across each of our Islands to support community readiness and immediate response. The Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force are on active duty, with additional officers in North Caicos, Salt Cay, South Caicos and Grand Turk.
At this time, the hurricane is moving north-northeast. The country is expected to experience tropical storm conditions, heavy rainfall and
significant storm surge. The storm surge poses a serious concern for low-lying coastal areas especially along our western and southern coastlines, which may result in coastal flooding. Based on the most current weather projections and anticipated impacts for the Turks and Caicos Islands, the National Executive have agreed the following actions:
1. Evacuation Advisories
Residents in specific low-lying and flood-prone coastal areas are likely to experience significant storm surge of 2-4 feet with accompanying rainfall. Strong advice is now place for residents in these areas to relocate to designated shelters which will be open from 4pm this afternoon. These areas include:
Middle Caicos
- Conch Bar Nearest Shelter: The Community Centre
North Caicos
- Sandy Point Nearest Shelter : Sandy Point Community Centre
- Whitby Nearest Shelter: Adelaide Oemler Primary School
- Bottle Creek Nearest Shelter: Adelaide Oemler Primary School
Providenciales
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- Chalk Sound Nearest Shelter Enid Capron Primary School
- Five Cays Nearest Shelter: Enid Capron Primary School
- Discovery Bay Nearest Shelter: All Saints Church, Leeward Highway
- Juba Sound Nearest Shelter: A. Louise Garland High School
- Long Bay Nearest Shelter: A. Louise Garland High School
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South Caicos
- Cockburn Harbour Nearest Shelter: Community Centre
- Old Airport Road Nearest Shelter: Community Centre
Should an evacuation order become necessary, it will be issued following the 6:00 PM Advisory this evening from the TCI National Weather Service.
2. Activation of Emergency Operations Centre
The National Emergency Operations Centre in Providenciales and all Islands Emergency Operations Centres will be activated at 4:00 PM today.
3. Shelters Access
Shelters across all Islands will open today at 4:00 PM to receive members of the public.
4. Shelter-in-Place
A Strong Shelter-in-Place Advisory is in place for all islands, commencing at 10:00 PM tonight. This will be in place until the all clear has been issued.
This means that from 10:00 PM tonight, all residents should be off the road, in a safe location, either at home or a designated shelter.
Please note that this position may be revised following the 6:00 PM Advisory from the TCI National Weather Service, depending on updated storm projections.
The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority (TCIAA) has confirmed that all airports remain fully operational for today. They will advise the public about ongoing operations dependent on the weather impacts.
In times such as this, the role of commercial entities extends beyond business – it becomes a vital part of the community’s resilience. All retailers and service providers are urged to uphold their humanitarian responsibilities by maintaining fair pricing and ensuring essential goods and services remain accessible to all.
Residents and visitors are reminded to adhere strictly to all official advisories and evacuation orders as they are issued. Avoid unnecessary movement, secure your property, and ensure that you and your family are prepared with essential supplies. Stay prepared and stay safe.
Turks and Caicos, October 24, 2025 – Commissioner of Police Fitz Bailey delivered an impassioned address to male students at Clement Howell High School, calling on them to recognize their power, seize their potential, and “awaken the sleeping giants” within.
In a message that blended humility, faith, and personal experience, the Commissioner reminded the boys that the decisions they make today will shape their future.“The choices you make today determine who you become tomorrow,” he said.
Bailey, who revealed he was the first in his family to attend high school, urged the students to embrace education and discipline as tools of
transformation.“Knowledge is power. If you want to be a real man, you need to read,” he told them. “Remember your potential — if others can do it, so can you. Some of you are sleeping giants waiting to be awakened.”
He emphasized that circumstances of birth do not dictate destiny, challenging the young men to carry self-respect, faith, and moral conviction wherever they go. “Self-respect is key; respect yourself, respect others, and respect God,” he said. “The circumstances you were born into do not define who you are.”
The Commissioner also spoke about resilience, advising that true strength often lies in restraint.
“There will be challenges, and people may try to impede your development — but rise above negativity. Sometimes, strength means walking away,” he said. “Some of you are sleeping lions; it’s time to awaken that instinct and rediscover your true potential.”
In closing, Commissioner Bailey delivered a stirring challenge:
“Each morning, look in the mirror and remind yourself that you were created by God and are capable of great exploits. You are a possibility with potential. Step forward with confidence — this is your country, your islands. Be the best version of yourself.”
Following his speech, the Commissioner engaged the students in open dialogue, answering questions and listening to their perspectives on issues affecting young men in the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Developed by Deandrea Hamilton • with ChatGPT (AI) • edited by Magnetic Media.
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