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The Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association Announces New Members of Staff

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#TurksandCaicos, December 16, 2022 – Football continues to develop strength in the Turks and Caicos Islands, growing in significant competition and participation. As a result of the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association’s (TCIFA) strategic plan to take football forward, building on the progress of past years, TCIFA welcomed new members of staff in an effort to further best practices, and expand quality football and administration.

Lenford Singh’s sixteen-year long experience with the TCIFA’s National Football Team Programme, coupled with his strong work ethic and leadership skills, supported his transfer to the coaching staff as they begin a new era of success. Singh played for the Turks and Caicos Islands Men’s National Football Team as striker and wide midfielder. He retired in September 2022. Singh joins the Technical Department as Football Coach, Talent Development Leader and Assistant Coach for the Boys U15 National Football Team. “I have always been extremely passionate about football, even as a young boy growing up in my community. I see football as a positive way to encourage young people to express their talents and achieve their maximum level of athletic potential. I am, therefore, driven and committed to continue providing knowledge and nurturing personal growth as I motivate our young people, keeping them on a positive path to achieving their goals,” said Singh. “I am excited to contribute to the Turks and Caicos Islands Football Association in my new capacity- the association which has been so instrumental in shaping me as a person, player, and now coach. Though there have been many great moments and memories as a player, now is the time to shift my focus. I look forward to influencing and molding our players into the leaders they are destined to be, whether on or off the field; and look forward to an exciting future ahead. I am thankful for the belief and continued investments ushered by President Sonia Fulford and the rest of the TCIFA.”

With a Bachelor’s degree in Primary Education, Jerisha Durham holds 5 years teaching experience at the Enid Capron and Ianthe Pratt Primary Schools in Providenciales. Durham now occupies the position of Executive Assistant to the Office of the President and General Secretary at the TCIFA, carrying a myriad of responsibilities. Her exemplary communication, organizational skills, and adaptability are but a few of her many strengths. She commented, “Babe Ruth once said, ‘Don’t let the fear of striking out hold you back.’ This is the motto that I live by. Football is new to me, yet, I am not afraid to start afresh or embark on this wonderful experience in my capacity at the TCIFA. I am filled with so much gratitude. The opportunity has already proven to be rewarding one, by the great people I have come in contact with, and the professional and collaborative work environment that exists. I am looking forward to a bright future in football administration, and learning more about the nuts and bolts of the beautiful game.”

After spending much of her childhood years playing in the youth football programme and volunteering, Monae Gooden returns to the TCIFA as Clerical Assistant. In 2017, she was awarded a football scholarship by ASA College in Miami, Florida, USA- a result of the 2017 Identification Camp organized by TCIFA.  There, she earned an Associate’s Degree in Business Administration. Gooden continues to further her education at the University of the West Indies Bachelor’s Programme, studying Business Management and Economics. “The unparalleled beauty of the game is the reason for my passion,” said Gooden. “I am ecstatic to return home to be a part of the administration that continues to invest in the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands, through football. In future endeavors, I hope to also do this as a player and a coach.”

TCIFA President Sonia Fulford commented, “It is truly an exciting time for football. It is with great pleasure that we welcome Singh, Durham and Gooden to the offices of the TCIFA. Not only will they bring a tighter focus to the work we are doing, but they will put forth significant contributions to our next chapter of growth and success. Our members of staff, each, embody the TCIFA’s values and mission. We are climbing the ladder and achieving a breakthrough. We are experiencing more active competition, both locally and internationally, than ever before. We are embracing this growth in every way possible and instituting multiple courses of action to keep up with this exciting momentum. We look forward to the new perspectives and dimension that these individuals will bring as we work collaboratively to raise the profile of football in these Turks and Caicos Islands.”

President Fulford continued, “It gives me great joy to see more Turks and Caicos Islanders becoming interested in football coaching and administration, as with our new members of staff, and we encourage more persons to become involved through our volunteer programme. I am also thrilled that Singh and Gooden has decided to shift gears and give back to our TCIFA from a different space. Football offers several options beyond the player’s field, and opportunities abound with exceptional growth chances. With that being said, there is always a place for everyone in football.”

For more information, please contact TCIFA Marketing and Communications Coordinator, Candia Ewing at 941-5532 or cewingtcifa@gmail.com

 

Address:

TCIFA National Academy

Venetian Road

Providenciales

Turks and Caicos Islands

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UK issues warning to tourists following shark attack

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Rashaed Esson

Staff Writer

In response to the Shark attack in Tobago on April 26, the UK Foreign Office issued a warning for British tourists stating that Tobago authorities temporarily closed the Buccoo Reef Marine Park and urged those who visit the beach, those who fish and others, to be careful when visiting certain coastal areas. These are “Plymouth, Courland Bay, Black Rock, Mt. Irvine, Buccoo, Pigeon Point, Store Bay, and all areas in between.”

 

 

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JAMAICAN STUDENTS GAIN SCHOLARSHIPS TO STUDY IN CUBA

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KINGSTON, April 25 (JIS):

Fifteen young Jamaicans have gained scholarships to pursue tertiary training in medicine, nursing and civil engineering in the Republic of Cuba, under the Jamaica-Cuba Bilateral Scholarship Programme.

Speaking at the awards ceremony for the students, held at the Embassy of Cuba in St. Andrew on April 24, Minister of State in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Foreign Trade, Hon. Alando Terrelonge, said the scholarship component of the partnership is one of the many successes for Jamaicans.

“Through this valuable programme, the Government of Cuba has consistently invested in the educational development of Jamaican students, through the provision of well-needed and appreciated undergraduate and postgraduate scholarships, primarily in Medicine and Health Sciences,” Mr. Terrelonge said.

He highlighted that the long-standing, meaningful and mutually beneficial bond of friendship and cooperation has been shared between Jamaica and Cuba for more than 50 years and has provided invaluable support to Jamaica, with several agreements in the areas of Health, Science, Culture, Sports, Tourism and Education.

The Minister of State said that Jamaica is grateful for the unwavering support towards Jamaica’s development, adding that “not only are we close geographical partners but our relationship is based on, among other things, mutual respect and strong people-to-people connections”.

Mr. Terrelonge told the students that they have succeeded in securing their places in the various programmes and have proven themselves to be the “crème de la crème, having successfully undergone a rigorous selection process”.

“I commend you for your drive, hard work and dedication towards your educational development,” he said.

“As you prepare to depart Jamaica for diverse and vibrant Cuba, I encourage you all to continue to work diligently in your respective fields of study, to remain faithful to the goals you have set for yourselves, and to fly, even higher, the Jamaican flag in Cuba. It is my hope that you will not only meet but exceed your and your families’ expectations,” the State Minister added.

He also encouraged the students to view the scholarship not only as an opportunity to advance academically but to also “immerse yourselves in the rich culture of the Cuban people” and to form new connections, build networks, explore new adventures, improve their Spanish-speaking skills, and to stay connected with the Jamaica Embassy in Havana.

Under the full scholarship, tuition, accommodation, meals, clothing allowance, study materials and medical care are covered by Cuba.

The programme is administered by the Embassy of the Republic of Cuba in conjunction with the Scholarship Unit of the Ministry of Finance and the Public Service and other entities. Every year, the Cuban Government invites applications from persons wishing to pursue undergraduate and postgraduate studies.

 

CONTACT: GARFIELD L. ANGUS

 

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GROUND BROKEN FOR HIGH SCHOOL AT CHRISTEL HOUSE

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KINGSTON, May 1 (JIS):

Ground has been broken at the tuition-free Christel House at Twickenham Park, St. Catherine, for the construction of a high school.

Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Faval Williams, who delivered the keynote address at the site, today (May 1), said Christel House’s dedication to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering vulnerable children is “nothing short of inspiring”.

“Your decision to invest in Jamaica speaks volumes about your belief in our nation’s potential, and your dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth is appreciated,” Minister Williams said.

She added that the partnership between the Government and the organisation, forged through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2019, is a “prime example” of what can be achieved when public and private entities come together with a shared vision and purpose.

Further, the Minister said a foundation is being laid for a brighter future, one where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances.

She said that Christel House Jamaica, which now operates a kindergarten school at the location, will in time be more than just a school.

“It will be a symbol of optimism, a sanctuary of learning, and a catalyst for positive change in our community,” the Minister said.

“By providing comprehensive support, including education, nutrition, healthcare, and mentorship, Christel House will empower students to break free from the chains of poverty and chart a course towards a better tomorrow,” she added.

Mrs. Willliams said the shared goal between the Administration and Christel House extends beyond the construction of a building, as it is about nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the destiny of the nation.

“Together, we are sowing the seeds of prosperity, equity, and social justice, ensuring that no child is left behind,” she said.

The school provides breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack, as well as transportation for children living far distances from the school. It also provides uniforms and textbooks, and counselling services for its students who have to contend with psychological and other emotional issues.

Founder of Christel House International, Christel Dehaan, emigrated from Germany to the United States (US) in 1962, and was an accomplished businesswoman.

In 1996, she sold her global enterprise, Resort Condominiums International (RCI), which had offices in 38 countries, and devoted her resources to philanthropic work from her headquarters in North Meridian Street, Indianapolis.

With support from dedicated donors, schools are run in India, Jamaica, Mexico, South Africa, and the US.

 

CONTACT: GARFIELD L. ANGUS

 

 

 

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