The Turks and Caicos Islands Government and by extension the Ministry of Tourism is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Thecla Joseph as the Director of Maritime within the Maritime Department.
Mrs. Thecla Joseph-Charles is a well certified and experienced professional within the Maritime sector. Her passion and drive as well as her attitude of service has made her an asset within the sector. This is true as her early training and certification in the field of Hospitality and Hospitality Management has shaped her approach to problem solving and the idea of service delivery that can be boasted anywhere.
She started her career as an administrative officer with the St. Lucia Air and Sea Ports Authority within various department. Seeing the need to improve upon her Associate Degree in Hospitality which she attained with Distinction, she would go on to further her knowledge in that field earning her a Bachelor of Science Degree in Hospitality Management from Monroe College, USA where she graduated Summa Cum Laude.
After completing studies, she returned to her native home St. Lucia and continued with the Ports Authority where she started and would be transferred to serve in the capacity of Maritime Assistant within the Division of Maritime Affairs. Always one seeking to add value by new learning, she was exposed to several courses and regional training workshops which would cement her belief that she can be a contributor to something important both locally, regionally and even internationally. She was certified in basic Seamanship and earned certification from Lloyd’s Maritime Academy in the form of a Certificate in Trade and Transports and a Diploma in Maritime Business Management all through distance learning while on the job.
Her interest was further sparked and encouraged her to pursue a Master of Science Degree in Maritime Affairs from the prestigious World Maritime University in Malmo, Sweden. Upon completion she was given the responsibility of Assistant Registrar of Ships and also acted as the Director of Maritime Affairs.
Mrs. Joseph-Charles is a firm believer in the motto of Sir Arthur Lewis Community College “In pursuit of excellence” and is clear in her purpose to motivate, build, educate and reinforce the gains already made by the Turks and Caicos Islands in the maritime sector. Her warmth and service-oriented attitude will offer opportunities for all who are presently and those who seek to engage in the Maritime sector.
Commenting on her appointment, Permanent Secretary Cherylann Jones stated; “I wish to welcome Ms. Joseph to the Turks and Caicos Islands Government and the team of the Ministry of Tourism. She has joined the Department of Maritime in a critical time as we continue to prepare for and advance III code audit, key policies and legislation in an effort to improve and enhance the TCI’s Maritime sector. She comes with a wealth of knowledge and we are confident that with the support of the robust team, and requisite skillset in her ability to lead the Department.”
