RTC Director

Health and Human Services Represents Turks and Caicos Islands at WELL 2025 Smart Hospital Symposium, Bucaramanga, Colombi

The Ministry of Health and Human Services proudly participated in the WELL 2025 Smart Hospital Symposium, an innovative global event where artificial intelligence (AI), hospital innovation, and patient-centered care converge to shape the future of healthcare.

The Turks and Caicos Islands were represented by a distinguished delegation comprising:

The Honourable Mr. Kyle Knowles, Minister of Health and Human Services
Mrs. Desiree Lewis, Permanent Secretary, Health
Dr. Nadia Astwood, Chief Medical Officer
Mr. Lynrod Brooks, Director, Health Policy and Planning
Ms. Florinda Gardiner, Manager, Contract Management Unit
Mrs. Marah Smith, Head of Secretariat

Hosted in Bucaramanga, Colombia, this exclusive symposium gathered over 250 esteemed national and international experts for a dynamic agenda of keynote lectures, interactive forums, and practical workshops. Participants also engaged in guided technical visits and observed operational smart clinics, offering a firsthand experience of the latest innovations revolutionizing healthcare delivery.

The symposium featured forward-thinking sessions on topics such as:

Fifty More Years of Life: Technology and Health for a Long-Lasting Future
AI in Action: Accelerating the Future of Healthcare
The Future of Health: Innovation with AI and Cutting-Edge Analytics
Selfies for Health: The New Frontier of Vital Sign Assessment with AI
AI and the Future of Mankind
Ethics in the Era of AI
Business, Science, and Technology in the Healthcare Revolution
Leveraging AI for Next-Generation Medical Platforms
From Idea to Revolution: Innovation and AI in Healthcare
Transforming Healthcare: Innovations in Smart Hospitals
From Big Data to Medical Precision: The New Era of Innovation
Interoperability and Telemedicine for a World Without Distances

The Honourable Minister of Health and Human Services, Kyle Knowles stated that "Our participation in WELL 2025 reflects our vision to position the Turks and Caicos Islands at the forefront of healthcare innovation in the region. The advancements in artificial intelligence and smart hospital technologies presented here have reaffirmed our commitment to modernizing our health systems. We are actively exploring how these transformative tools can be adapted to enhance patient care, strengthen health infrastructure, and build resilience across our healthcare sector. The insights gained will inform our strategic planning and guide the future of healthcare delivery in the TCI."

Looking Ahead

The Ministry’s engagement in WELL 2025 is part of its broader commitment to health sector reform and the integration of cutting-edge technologies to improve efficiency, access, and outcomes. Leveraging the knowledge and partnerships developed at this global forum, the Ministry is better positioned to pursue a bold and modern vision for healthcare in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Ministry’s participation in WELL 2025 reflects its ongoing commitment to embracing innovative, technology-driven approaches to healthcare transformation in the Turks and Caicos Islands. The insights and collaborations from this symposium will inform future strategic planning and support the modernization of health services across the territory.

by RTC Director

Minister Jolly Leads TCI Delegation at Global Sustainable Islands Summit in St. Kitts

The Turks and Caicos Islands was represented on the international stage last week as Hon. Zhavargo Jolly, Minister of Tourism, Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Environment, led a delegation to the Global Sustainable Islands Summit (GSIS) held in St. Kitts and a Forum on Access to Climate Finance for Sub-National Island Jurisdictions in Nevis.

The Minister was joined by Ms. Tracy Knight, Representative to the UK and Head of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government London Office, and Mr. Arthur Been, Deputy Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism. Together, the delegation participated in key panels, policy exchanges, and bilateral meetings aimed at strengthening the Islands’ position in regional sustainability efforts.

In his remarks to the summit, Minister Jolly highlighted the unique challenges faced by British Overseas Territories in accessing international climate finance — and emphasized the urgent need for island territories like TCI to be included in global funding frameworks.
“We may be small in size, but our ambitions are big. Turks and Caicos is ready to lead, and we are taking the steps now to build a more resilient and self-reliant future,” Minister Jolly said. “While we continue to prepare ourselves for greater autonomy, we must ensure that we’re not left out of the funding conversations that shape our future.”

The Minister outlined several ongoing initiatives, including a national climate risk assessment and collaboration with the Caribbean Development Bank on coastal defense. He also shared aspirations around green innovation — including the potential development of a utility-scale solar energy project and improved drainage infrastructure to combat flooding in key tourism and residential zones.

“These are the kinds of forward-looking ideas we want to explore seriously over the next decade,” he noted, “but our people will be at the center of any plan we advance.”

Tracy Knight, who served in a key support and advisory role throughout the summit, brings years of experience representing Turks and Caicos Islands in the UK and Europe. As Head of the TCI Government London Office, she has worked closely on UK and EU development initiatives, including past engagements under the European Development Fund (EDF), and continues to advocate for greater access to global funding streams for the islands.

“The Turks and Caicos Islands continue to face real limitations as an Overseas Territory when it comes to accessing key sources of development and climate finance,” said Knight. “My role is to ensure our voice is heard, especially in the rooms where funding decisions are made. This summit reinforced how important it is for us to stay engaged — and to keep pushing for equity and inclusion on the global stage.”

The TCI delegation also held constructive dialogue with regional counterparts, including USVI Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Nevis Premier Mark Brantley, building ties that may support future cooperation in tourism, conservation, and disaster resilience.

Following the summit, Minister Jolly reaffirmed his Ministry’s commitment to bold but practical planning, and expressed confidence that Turks and Caicos can become a leader in sustainable island development.

by RTC Director

Ministry of Health and Human Services Hands Over UK-Donated Respiratory Equipment to TCI Hospital

On Tuesday, 27th May 2025, the Ministry of Health and Human Services performed a “Handing Over” of essential Respiratory equipment to the Turks and Caicos Islands Hospital (TCI)/InterHealth Canada Ltd in a brief but meaningful ceremony.

Present for the handing over were Ms. Tamera Howell-Robinson, Permanent Secretary of Innovation, Technology and Information and Acting Permanent Secretary of Health and Human Services, Mrs. Jackurlyn Sutton, Chief Nursing Officer and National Infection Prevention and Control Focal Point, Mrs. Surbrena Pedican, Infection Control Nurse, TCI Hospital, Mrs. Cheryl Ann Foreman, other Ministry officials, and members of the local media.

The donation, which included five (5) Powered Air Purifying Respirators (PAPRs) and related consumables, was made possible through the generous support of the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) Acute Trust. The initiative was facilitated by Mrs. Janice Toplass, Infection Prevention and Control Specialist through the UK Health Security Agency’s (UKHSA) UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs) programme.

During the event, Mrs. Jackurlyn Sutton expressed heartfelt appreciation for the donation. She acknowledged the instrumental role played by the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) who supported the logistics and ensured timely delivery of the equipment as well as the ambulances from the West Midlands Ambulance Service to the Islands.

Chief Nurse Sutton explained “these powered Respirators are a part of a wider respiratory protection programme which commenced in the TCI during the COVID 19 Pandemic. This equipment can be used by staff caring for specific patients who cannot be fit tested to the usual tight-fitting face masks (respirators) such as N95s, thus ensuring all staff have access to respiratory protection where needed.”

She also noted “the respirators are a part of the ongoing impact of the first two-day national training workshop conducted by the Ministry of Health and Human Services in collaboration with the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and the UKHSA in January 2023. The Workshop facilitated the Training of Trainers in mask fit testing for twelve (12) health care professionals from both the public and private sectors”.

Nurse Surbrena Pedican, in her response, also expressed gratitude to the NHS and UKHSA for these powered Air Purifying Respirators to support the Respiratory Protection Programme within the TCI. “This equipment is an important additional layer to our personal protective equipment (PPE), which will serve to protect both staff and patients from airborne respiratory illnesses.”

Hon. Kyle Knowles, Minister for Health and Human Services, although not present for the exercise due to prior commitments, stated, “I am pleased by this kind gesture of donated Respiratory Equipment from the UK NHS Acute Trust, facilitated by the IPC Specialists from the UK Overseas Territories (UKOTs) Programme. The UKHSA has, over the past four (4) years, greatly assisted the TCI Ministry of Health and Human Services to build capacity not only within the area of Infection Prevention and Control but also in other key areas. We value this partnership and the various initiatives undertaken in collaboration with the programme lead, such as IPC Specialists, Mrs. Janice Toplass. We remain committed to strengthening our readiness and resilience in public health. May God continue to bless and keep us as a nation”.

The Ministry of Health and Human Services looks forward to continued collaboration with external partners such as the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), as we work to strengthen the knowledge and skills of our healthcare professionals to meet the evolving needs of our population. As part of this ongoing partnership, virtual training sessions will soon be provided by UKHSA to support the effective integration of the new equipment into the Turks and Caicos Islands’ broader respiratory protection strategy.

by RTC Director

Steven Astwood II Achieves First in the World in Prestigious CGMA Management Case Study Exam

The Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture proudly announces that Mr. Steven Astwood II has secured First Position in the World in the CGMA Management Case Study Examination held in February 2025. This extraordinary accomplishment marks a historic milestone for both Mr. Astwood and the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designation is an internationally recognised credential for management accountants and finance professionals. Offered through the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA), the program equips professionals with the strategic, analytical, and leadership skills essential for success in today’s global business environment.

The CGMA Management Case Study Exam evaluates a candidate's ability to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world business scenarios, simulating the role of a mid-level finance manager.

Achieving First in the World reflects a level of excellence unmatched by candidates from across the globe.

This outstanding achievement places a global spotlight on the Turks and Caicos Islands as a growing center for academic excellence and professional success. Mr. Astwood’s performance not only elevates the reputation of the TCI but also sets a powerful example for current and future generations.

Mr. Astwood’s educational journey began at Richmond Hill Preparatory School and continued at Clement Howell High School, where he progressed under the mentorship of Mrs. Kordell Campbell-Forbes.

Upon graduating from high school, Mr. Astwood pursued his tertiary education at Salford City College in Manchester, United Kingdom, where he earned a BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Business Studies with triple Distinction* grades. His academic excellence earned him a scholarship from the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands.

He then advanced to the University of Liverpool, graduating with First Class Honours in BA Accounting & Finance. He continued his academic pursuits by earning a Master’s degree in Project Management from the University of Central Lancashire, graduating with Merit, funded by a leading local property development company.

Currently, Mr. Astwood is completing his professional certification with the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA). He recently achieved the remarkable feat of placing first in the world in one of his final exams. Upon completing all examinations and the required work experience, he is on track to earn the prestigious Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) designation.

In addition to his academic success, Mr. Astwood has developed a strong professional background. He began his career as an Assistant Management Accountant and has recently been promoted to the role of Management Accountant.

Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports, and Culture, extended heartfelt congratulations to Mr. Astwood:
“On behalf of the Ministry of Education and the Government of the Turks and Caicos Islands, I extend my warmest congratulations to Mr. Steven Astwood II. His remarkable achievement of placing first globally in the CGMA Management Case Study Exam is a testament to his dedication, intellect, and perseverance. Steven has not only brought honour to himself and his family, but also to our entire nation. His success proves that our young people can compete—and win—on the global stage. I encourage Steven and all of our students to continue striving for excellence, to dream big, and to believe in the power of hard work and education.”

Mr. Astwood’s success highlights the importance of investing in education and empowering our youth to achieve their fullest potential. The Turks and Caicos Islands proudly celebrate this momentous occasion and look forward to witnessing even greater accomplishments from our future leaders.

by RTC Director

DECR to Host Free Swim Lessons in Celebration of World Oceans Day

The Department of Environment and Coastal Resources (DECR) is pleased to invite members of the public to participate in a Free-Swimming Lessons event in honor of World Oceans Day.

The event will be held at The Bight Park on Saturday, 7th June 2025, from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM, under the theme "Connecting People with Nature."

This initiative aims to promote ocean awareness, water safety, and environmental stewardship while helping members of the community build confidence in the water. The DECR is offering this opportunity to a maximum of 20 participants of various ages.

The swim lessons will be led by experienced instructors Ben Stubenberg, Morgan Luker, and Bennett Williams, who have generously volunteered their time and expertise for this community initiative.

Registration is required and can be completed through the Google Forms link provided on the official event flyer. Pre-registered participants will be given priority. Should space remain available on the day of the event, walk-in participants may be accommodated on a first-come, first-served basis.

The DECR encourages everyone to take advantage of this opportunity to Connect With Nature, build essential swimming skills, and celebrate our shared responsibility for protecting the marine environment.

by RTC Director

Turks and Caicos Islands Represented at the 27th Caribbean Postal Union Conference

The Ministry of Public Safety and Utilities is pleased to announce the successful participation of the Turks and Caicos Islands in the 27th Annual Caribbean Postal Union (“CPU”) Conference held from 26th to 30th May 2025 at the Cadillac Hotel, South Beach, Miami, Florida.

The Turks and Caicos Islands delegation was led by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. Desmond Wilson, and included the Postmaster General, Mrs. Elizabeth James, and Head of Secretariat, Ms. Shanetta Thompson.
This year’s conference, convened under the theme “A Stronger and Safer Union: Designing Solutions through Engagement,” brought together delegates from twenty-five (25) member states across the Caribbean and beyond, including representation from the United States, Chile, France, and India.

The five-day event featured an extensive agenda covering a wide array of critical developments and challenges in the postal sector, with special focus on modernisation, security, trade compliance, and international cooperation.
Conference Highlights Included:

Mail Statistics and Trends – A regional update on international mail volumes affirmed continued robust flows across the Caribbean network.
United States Customs and Tariff Updates – Emphasis was placed on the new US tariff regime and its implications for Caribbean exports and postal logistics.

Air Security and Prohibited Goods – A comprehensive presentation addressed the transport of dangerous items and enhancements to air mail safety.

Financial and Operational Modernisation – IRP/IRS remuneration reform, critical for sustainability, was explored alongside CPU’s pilot initiative to implement an International Financial System to enhance cross-border e-commerce transactions.

Security and Compliance Strategy – The STOP Act and Electronic Advance Data (EAD) were examined in the context of tightening regulatory requirements and enhancing US-Caribbean compliance mechanisms.

Transportation and Resilience – Updates from the Caribbean Transportation Task Force were shared, along with the UPU's Disaster Risk Management Certification program to strengthen postal resilience.

Public-Private Partnerships and E-Commerce – Strategic partnerships with Pakya Mailing Services and Access LLC showcased innovative models for integrating private sector efficiencies into postal operations.

International Collaboration – India Post proposed expanded training and regional collaboration with CPU members.

A notable aspect of the conference was the official visit to the United States Mail International Service Center (ISC) in Miami, where delegates witnessed firsthand the scale and logistics of global mail processing.

The Minister for Public Safety and Utilities, Hon. Otis Morris, extended his appreciation to the delegation and underscored the importance of continuous innovation in public services:

“As Minister, I am proud of the leadership and engagement demonstrated by our delegation at the CPU conference. The lessons and relationships formed will serve to guide the strategic transformation of our Postal Services. In an era of rapid digitisation and global commerce, the CPU remains a vital platform for cooperation, problem-solving, and future-proofing regional postal systems. We remain committed to ensuring that our postal services evolve to meet the changing needs of the public while continuing to play a central role in connectivity and commerce.”

The Permanent Secretary, Mr. Desmond Wilson, added:

“This year’s CPU Conference reinforced the importance of regional collaboration and innovation in postal services. The discussions on modernisation, security, and cross-border partnerships are vital as we work to enhance efficiency and resilience in the Turks and Caicos Islands’ postal sector. We look forward to implementing key takeaways to better serve our community.”

Finally, the Postmaster General, Mrs. Elizabeth James, commenting on the significance of the event stated:
“The conference was both fruitful and enlightening. It provided a clear lens into the evolving strategies and innovations that are essential to ensuring our postal service remains efficient, competitive, and aligned with the demands of a technology-driven, e-commerce world.”

The Turks and Caicos delegation returned to the islands on Sunday, 1st June 2025, energised with new insights and partnerships that will inform the Department’s modernisation agenda.

by RTC Director