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.
Bahamas News
Bahama Brass Band Invitation Sparks Heritage Debate Ahead of TCI Constitutional Holiday
Turks and Caicos, August 20, 2026 – The planned participation of the Bahama Brass Band in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ inaugural Constitutional Holiday celebrations on August 30 has sparked public debate over culture, heritage and the historical contributions of Turks and Caicos Islanders abroad.
Organizers defended the invitation, saying the band’s inclusion is intended to highlight the deep historical ties between the two countries
and honor Turks and Caicos men who helped establish and develop the institution in Grand Bahama.
According to the organizers, the Bahama Brass Band began in 1955 in Pine Ridge, Freeport, with Turks and Caicos Islanders, including the late Deacon Reuben Hall Sr. of Middle Caicos and Jenkins Williams and Mervin Hendfield of North Caicos, among those who helped build its foundation. The band eventually grew to more than 50 men.
The organizers also pointed to the participation of Turks and Caicos men in The Bahamas’ Independence celebrations on July 10, 1973, arguing that their contributions became part of Bahamian history while maintaining strong connections to their homeland.
Supporters say bringing the band home represents an opportunity to honor those pioneers, showcase their regional influence and expose younger generations to an important part of Turks and Caicos history.
However, concerns raised publicly described the invitation as potentially disrespectful to local culture and heritage. Organizers acknowledged those concerns, apologizing to anyone who felt overlooked or offended, while maintaining that no disrespect was intended.
The committee said the event should ultimately unite rather than divide, presenting the band’s history as evidence of the reach and resilience of Turks and Caicos heritage.
PHOTO CREDIT: Bahamas Brass Band
News
BermudAir Launches New York Area’s First Nonstop Service to South Caicos, Now Just a 3.5 Hour Flight from Newark
Twice-Weekly Nonstop Flights Begin December 20 with Fares from $347 One Way, Creating Direct Access to Salterra Resort & Spa
– New Route Expands BermudAir’s Winter Turks & Caicos Network –
[New York, NY – August 20, 2026] – BermudAir, the leading premium leisure carrier to Bermuda and the Caribbean, today announced it will introduce nonstop flights to South Caicos from Newark this winter. The route places one of the Caribbean’s most secluded island destinations just 3.5 hours from the New York area for the first time.
The new service starts on December 20, 2026, operating on Sundays and Thursdays, and will be the only nonstop service to the destination
from the New York area. This seasonal service will operate through April 25, 2027. Fares start at $347 one way ($773 roundtrip) and go on sale today.
The new South Caicos route creates gives travelers two distinct luxury resort options, with direct access to Salterra, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, recently named the No. 1 resort in Turks and Caicos by Condé Nast Traveler.
Set across 85 beachfront acres with a 3,000-foot private white-sand beach, Salterra brings a full luxury resort experience to an island still defined by its historic salinas, pristine waters, bonefishing flats and uninhabited cays. Upon landing at South Caicos International Airport (XSC), guests are approximately 10 minutes from the resort.
While flights go on sale today, the airline’s BermudAir Holidays vacation-packaging division will offer curated travel to South Caicos from next month, featuring flights, hotels and authentic island experiences, with bundled discounts and value-added perks, making it even easier to explore the destination.
Previously BermudAir announced seven new routes to Providenciales in Turks and Caicos, from Newark (EWR), Boston (BOS), Baltimore-Washington (BWI), Raleigh-Durham (RDU), Fort Lauderdale (FLL), St Petersburg/Tampa (PIE) and Toronto (YYZ) which will all start in December except for Fort Lauderdale which begins October 26.
Expanded Winter Season
- To South Caicos:
- Twice-weekly nonstop from Newark (Sundays and Thursdays) from December 20 through April 25, 2027.
- To Turks and Caicos:
- Weekly nonstop from Newark (Saturdays) and one weekly direct service (Thursdays) from December 19 through April 29, 2027;
- Weekly nonstop service from Boston (Saturdays), from December 19 through May 1, 2027;
- Weekly nonstop service from Baltimore-Washington (Thursdays), from December 24 through April 29, 2027;
- Twice-weekly nonstop service from Raleigh-Durham (Thursdays and Sundays), from December 20 through May 2, 2027;
- Thrice-weekly service from Fort Lauderdale (Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays), from October 26 through May 3, 2027;
- Twice-weekly nonstop service from St Petersburg/Tampa (Mondays and Thursdays), from December 21 through May 3, 2027; and
- Weekly nonstop service from Toronto (Saturdays), from December 19 through May 1, 2027.
“We’re thrilled to continue expanding our Caribbean network as the premium leisure carrier from North America,” said Adam Scott, Founder and CEO of BermudAir. “Now New Yorkers can fly nonstop to two distinct sides of the Turks and Caicos Islands — Providenciales and the secluded island of South Caicos, home to the exquisite Salterra and Sailrock South Caicos resorts.”
The airline consistently earns Net Promoter Scores of 70+, one of the highest ratings in the airline industry. All flights will be operated on comfortable Embraer E190 aircraft, offering passengers the airline’s signature warm service and authentic island hospitality.
“South Caicos has always felt worlds away, and that is part of its magic,” said Michael Tibbetts, Founder and CEO of Salterra. “Beginning this winter, guests can fly nonstop from Newark in 3.5 hours, land at one of the newest international airports in the region and be at Salterra minutes later. This route makes a long weekend escape and an extended stay to one of the Caribbean’s most unspoiled islands remarkably easy, without changing the sense of discovery that makes South Caicos so special.”
For more information or to book flights, visit www.flybermudair.com. Salterra will offer dedicated stay packages timed to BermudAir’s Thursday and Sunday nonstop service. To book a stay at Salterra, A Luxury Collection Resort & Spa, visit www.salterra.com
SALT CAY — Residents say Salt Cay’s prolonged water shortage remains unresolved, with no visible activity or relief from the measures Government said would be advanced last week.
The crisis began in June after a critical filter failed at the island’s reverse osmosis plant, severely disrupting local water production.
Residents told Magnetic Media Tuesday morning that neither the replacement filter nor the promised bulk shipment of emergency water appeared to have arrived.
Minister of Innovation, Technology and Energy E. Jay Saunders, however, said the filter is already on Salt Cay.
“The RO filter is on Salt Cay and it’s being installed,” Saunders told Magnetic Media.
The large emergency water shipment has not materialised. Saunders said transporting more than 1,000 gallons in a single container requires a barge, and officials are still attempting to source one.
Government had previously indicated that it would try to deliver up to 2,500 gallons to partially replenish Salt Cay’s depleted storage tanks while repairs continued.
Saunders had initially projected that the RO plant would be fully operational by August 19. He now says the system is expected to return to full operation “in a few days.”
For residents, however, the immediate reality remains unchanged: the shortage continues, the bulk water has not arrived and the promised relief is not yet flowing.
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Bahamas News22 hours agoBahama Brass Band Invitation Sparks Heritage Debate Ahead of TCI Constitutional Holiday