Gender Affairs Department marks Women’s Month with island-wide events, award ceremony planned

Turks and Caicos, March 18, 2026 – The Department of Gender Affairs is continuing its observance of Women’s Month with a series of activities across the Turks and Caicos Islands, including island-wide church services, community events and an upcoming awards ceremony to honour women advancing justice, leadership and human rights.

The observances began with International Women’s Day services held throughout the country under the 2026 theme “Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls,” highlighting the importance of equality, empowerment and protection of women and girls in every community.

In Providenciales, the service was led by Minister of Home Affairs, Religious Affairs and Transportation, Hon. Shaun Malcolm, joined by Permanent Secretary Federico Johnson and Deputy Director of Gender Affairs Monique Long at Abundant Life Ministries, where government officials, community leaders and residents gathered to mark the occasion.

Similar services were held across the islands. In Grand Turk, the observance took place at St. Mary Pro-Cathedral, led by Deputy Permanent Secretary Kiesha Taylor and Director of Gender Affairs Carolyn Dickenson. In South Caicos, District Commissioner Yvette Cox led the service at Revival Faith Center, while in Salt Cay, District Commissioner Aisha Thomas hosted the observance at St. John’s Anglican Church. The North Caicos service was held at the Kew Church of God of Prophecy, bringing together residents to celebrate the contributions of women in the community.

Officials say the month-long observance is designed not only to recognise achievements, but also to encourage continued action toward fairness, opportunity and protection for women and girls throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.

As part of the celebrations, the Department of Gender Affairs will host the Exemplary Women Awards on March 21 at Brayton Hall in Providenciales. The event, themed “All Rise: Honouring Women Advancing Law, Human Rights and Justice,” will recognise outstanding women who have contributed to national development and the advancement of equality.

Gender Affairs officials say the activities reflect the Government’s ongoing commitment to promoting gender equality and ensuring that the voices, achievements and challenges of women remain a national priority throughout the year.

Developed by Deandrea Hamilton • with ChatGPT (AI) • edited by Magnetic Media.