TCI News
Turks and Caicos Islands Join Global Leaders in Fiji to Champion Regenerative Tourism
Providenciales, Turks and Caicos Islands (August 26th, 2025) – The Turks and Caicos Islands joined global sustainability leaders, policymakers, and tourism experts at the Global Sustainable Tourism Council (GSTC) Training and Conference 2025, held from August 2nd to 9th at the Sheraton Fiji Golf & Beach Resort, Denarau Island, Fiji.
The landmark gathering focused on advancing regenerative and resilient tourism models, particularly for small island states which face
unique challenges such as climate change, ecosystem fragility, and economic dependence on tourism.
The GSTC2025 programme unfolded in three distinct phases: in-depth training sessions on the GSTC Criteria and best practices in cultural heritage preservation, destination stewardship, and environmental protection; a conference featuring keynotes, panels, and workshops with international experts, industry leaders, and representatives from Small Island Developing States (SIDS); and cultural celebrations that showcased Fiji’s rich heritage through music, dance, crafts, and cuisine—highlighting the inextricable link between culture, stewardship, and tourism.
Representing the Turks and Caicos Islands were Mr. Courtney Robinson, Strategic Development Manager, Experience Turks and Caicos alongside Mrs. Jasmine Thomas, Executive Director of the Turks and Caicos National Trust, and Ms. Claudia Munnings, Chair of the National Trust Board. The delegation actively contributed to global knowledge-sharing sessions, presenting the country’s progress in ecotourism, biodiversity conservation, heritage site management, and community engagement. The TCI team also gained insights from other island nations on strategies for climate adaptation, policy alignment, and safeguarding cultural identity.
Mr. Paul Pennicook, Interim CEO Consultant of Experience Turks and Caicos, said The Turks and Caicos Islands’ presence at the GSTC 2025 Conference is an important step in affirming our commitment to sustainability and resilience.
“As a small island destination, we are uniquely vulnerable to the impacts of climate change and environmental pressures. Participating in
this global dialogue allows us not only to share our progress in biodiversity conservation, heritage preservation, and community engagement, but also to learn from other nations facing similar challenges. This exchange of knowledge ensures that Turks and Caicos continues to grow as a world-class destination while safeguarding the natural and cultural treasures that define who we are,” he said.
Reflecting on the experience, Mr. Robinson, said: “The GSTC2025 conference was a powerful reminder that sustainability is not a choice but a necessity for islands like the Turks and Caicos. We learnt that collective stewardship, cultural authenticity, and strong partnerships are not only critical to protecting what we have but also to positioning the TCI as a global leader in sustainable tourism. The lessons shared by our fellow island nations will be invaluable as we continue to shape a tourism sector that benefits both our people and our environment.”
Key takeaways from the conference, included the importance of collaboration among government which is key to sustainability, how partnerships across sectors amplify impact and help integrate environmental, cultural, and economic priorities; and how vital authentic cultural experiences are for tourism differentiation and community pride.
The insights from GSTC2025 underline several strategic directions for the islands, including reviewing and strengthening national tourism and environmental policies in line with GSTC standards, leveraging partnerships and funding to advance sustainable initiatives, embedding community voices in decision-making processes, and incorporating climate adaptation measures into tourism infrastructure and practices.
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.
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.
(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.
