We are nature lovers, ocean ambassadors, philanthropists and entrepreneurs living on a tiny island and trying to make this a better world.
We love this place. We explore, freedive, kitesurf, swim and melt with the local culture. The Turks & Caicos Islands have everything you can wish for. From crystal clear waters, amazing wildlife to magical marine life. Hang around with Jojo the local wild dolphin, freedive with resident caribbean reef sharks, glide through the seagrass bed with the friendly turtles and experience closer encounters with the majestic humpback whales. Our challenge is to keep this beautiful island as pristine as possible for future generations.
See how our partners are bringing awareness to the Islands
Our Initiative:
The initiative named “Proud of my Island” consists of the creation of affordable reusable and recyclable shopping bags. The bags will feature unique landmarks, cultural heritage, wildlife and marine life of the island that would appeal to both visitors to take back home as a souvenir and for residents to use them with pride. The project is an inspiration to get to know our island better, to strengthen the pride of belonging to TCI that has been blessed by God, and a call to become owners of what we have, of those attributes that identify us as an island and that make us unique in the world.
Partnership Program
By becoming a partner your logo will be featured in the bags, you will get social media recognition and mention in the local newspaper, radio and local magazines for the launch of the bags
Proud of my Island Partner Benefits
Promote the island abroad
Promote the island abroad
Bring environmental awareness
Our Goal
Collect funds through the sale of the bags to support local non-profits that advance education, environmental protection and assistance to people in need.
At a local level, get to know TCI, be proud of what we have and bring environmental awareness. At an international level, visitors will take the bag home as a souvenir and reuse, creating direct advertisements for the island.
$
0
For a 2x2 inch logo on a side of the bag
0
plastic or paper bags saved by using our shopping bags!
FOUR COLLECTION
Athlete Tahjari
Tajhari Williams, a 16-year-old raised in Turks and Caicos, embarked on an extraordinary journey in swimming since his early childhood days. His passion for the sport ignited at the age of 3, marked by a natural affinity for the water. Under the guidance of his uncle, Tajhari’s talent flourished, propelling him into the competitive world of swimming.
As he matured, Tajhari’s skills thrived under the mentorship of Lenin Hamilton, a key figure in establishing a swim club on the island. Joining the Turks and Caicos Aquatics Swim Club and securing a spot on the National Swim Team, Tajhari’s unwavering dedication led him to represent his nation in prestigious swim meets worldwide. From the serene shores of the Bahamas to the vibrant cities of Miami and Tokyo, he showcased his prowess, claiming victories and making history for his homeland.
Yet, the challenges faced by young islanders like Tajhari became evident as he reached a ceiling in his career. The absence of an Olympic swimming pool on the island limits his training opportunities, slowing his path to the pinnacle of the sport.
Through perseverance, hard work and community support, Tajhari’s dream can become a reality. Securing sponsors who share his vision will give him the opportunity to train at a US high school with a reputable swimming program. With each stroke, Tajhari edges closer to his dream of representing Turks and Caicos at the Olympics, showcasing the resilience of a determined young islander ready to conquer the waves and leave a lasting impact on the world.
If you’d like to support Tajhari in achieving his dream, you can donate at www.makeachamp.com/tajhariwilliams.
Mangrove Reusable Bag
Mangroves are coastal ecosystems found in tropical and subtropical regions, characterized by trees and shrubs adapted to survive in muddy, salty, and brackish water. Their intricate root systems stabilize the coastlines, guarding against erosion and buffering the islands from the impact of storms and hurricanes.
These ecosystems are pivotal ecological sanctuaries, providing shelter and nourishment to a diverse array of marine life, including fish, crustaceans, and birds. Mangroves filter pollutants and contribute to carbon sequestration, helping to mitigate the impacts of climate change.
Mangroves hold immense value for local communities, offering resources and cultural significance that are integral to environmental sustainability and human welfare.
Despite their significance, mangroves face threats from water-based business operations altering ecological balance, generating waste, and increasing pollution and physical disturbances. To safeguard the mangroves of the Turks & Caicos Islands for future generations, it’s imperative to carefully consider environmental impacts, implement sustainable management practices, and engage the local community to eliminate disturbances and mitigate pollution.
One of the main species commonly found in shallow coastal waters, including mangroves are the Lemon Sharks. These apex predators play a crucial role in maintaining the balance of marine ecosystems. The Lemon Aid project, a community-driven initiative, partnered with Big Blue Collective, aims to protect lemon sharks and their habitat through research, education, and outreach. For more information on the Lemon Aid Project, read here: www.sharks4kids.com/lemon-shark-research
Queen conch Reusable Bag
The conch, a revered symbol in the Turks and Caicos Islands, holds profound cultural and ecological significance. As a ubiquitous marine gastropod, the Queen Conch (Strombus gigas) is not merely a culinary delicacy but an integral part of the islands’ identity.
Beyond its cultural value, the conch plays a vital role in the marine ecosystem of the Turks and Caicos. Its grazing habits help regulate seagrass beds, maintaining the health of coastal habitats and supporting a diverse array of marine life. The conch exhibits remarkable longevity, with lifespans exceeding 40 years in suitable habitat conditions. They attain sexual maturity around 4-5 years of age, characterized by the development of a flared lip measuring 15 mm or more in thickness.
The conch population has been on a decline due to factors such as overfishing and habitat alterations across various regions, including the Turks and Caicos. Extensive studies conducted over the years have provided evidence of this downward trend.
Regulations governing conch fishing vary by country, emphasizing the need for sustainable fishing practices to safeguard their populations. Proud of my Island Initiative advocates for stringent regulations across the Turks & Caicos Islands and actively promotes a conch sanctuary in Turks & Caicos Islands.
For those interested in delving deeper into conch farming and establishing their own hatchery, the “Queen Conch Aquaculture Manual” by Megan Davis and Victoria Cassar offers a comprehensive guidance, detailing the process through its four stages. Access the manual for free at conchaquaculture.org/manual: https://conchaquaculture.org/manual
THIRD COLLECTION
Donkeys of Grand Turk
The Untamed Spirit of TCI's Wild Donkey
Hold onto your beach hats, folks! We’re about to take a ride through the history of the wild donkeys of TCI. These adorable creatures have been roaming the beaches of Grand Turk, Salt Cay, and South Caicos for centuries, and they have quite the story to tell.
It all started back in the mid-1700s when Bermudian salt rakers brought the first donkeys to Grand Turk. These hard-working animals were tasked with hauling bags of salt from the salinas to the boats on the beach. But when the work was done, the donkeys were left to roam free and enjoy the beautiful Caribbean weather. Who can blame them for wanting to stick around? With 350 days of sunshine, white sand beaches, and Pina coladas, I wouldn’t want to leave either!
As the demand for salt grew and permanent settlements took hold, more donkeys were imported to the islands. And when the salt industry waned in the early 20th century, these
resilient donkeys managed to survive and thrive in our beautiful islands. And why wouldn’t they? They had found their paradise, and they weren’t going anywhere.
But don’t be fooled by their laid-back island vibe, these donkeys are more than just pretty faces. They are highly intelligent creatures, sociable and calm. They even have a unique capacity to bond with each other and with humans. In fact, their heart rates sync up with those they come into contact with! They have been scientifically proven to be beneficial for children with disabilities and instrumental in maintaining the local ecosystem. Proud of my Island strongly supports a donkey sanctuary initiative. These wonderful animals are woven into TCI history and should be preserved for future generations of islanders and visitors to enjoy. And next time you see a wild donkey on the beach, don’t just snap a selfie.
Take a moment to appreciate their unique spirit and the role they play in TCI’s rich history.
The pristine shores of our island are always vulnerable to plastic drifting through the ocean. Please help us keep the beaches clean by properly disposing of any plastic or trash you have used. We have so much to protect! “Proud of my Island” is a driving force behind the movement to become more conscious of the environment. By choosing reusable bags, you become part of the island’s effort to reduce, reuse and recycle. Let’s all limit our carbon footprint and live a more sustainable lifestyle.
Turks and Caicos Identity
The meaning of Home
Having been born and raised amidst the serene white sand beaches and vibrant green
landscapes of Grand Turk, situated in the Turks and Caicos Islands, I have come to recognize the profound significance of embracing the island life.
From the gentle caress of the morning sun to the captivating spectacle of stars adorning the night sky, I have always felt an undeniable sense of belonging in this remarkable setting. The essence of the island lifestyle extends beyond the breathtaking scenery; it encompasses a deep appreciation for the people who inhabit these shores. Following in the footsteps of my mother and grandmother, I have embraced the tradition of greeting others with a warm and radiant smile, an act that fills my heart with immeasurable joy. The interconnectedness and care we share with one another are the very pillars that fortify the strength and vitality of our island communities and cultures. It is an honor to be a part of this exceptional tapestry of the Turks and Caicos Islands.
Words by Shanice Williams, ex – Miss Turks & Caicos Universe
About Turks & Caicos Islands
Situated in the enchanting Caribbean Sea, the Turks and Caicos Islands boasts a captivating blend of natural beauty and diverse cultural heritage. With a population of approximately 46,000 people hailing from various backgrounds, these islands offer a lively mosaic of traditions and identities.
The people of Turks and Caicos share a strong sense of community and togetherness, despite their differences. Their rich historical legacy and deep-rooted heritage are expressed through vibrant music, dance and food festivals. These cultural celebrations bring closer not only islanders but also people from all over the world. By embracing the island spirit, one discovers a captivating fusion of breathtaking landscapes, tight-knit communities, and a celebration of cultural treasures. Turks and Caicos Islands stand as a testament to the harmonious coexistence of natural wonders and human connection, leaving a lasting mark on those fortunate enough to call it home or experience its profound charm.
Blue Hole
East Caicos
The Mystical Blue Hole
The Blue Hole is a captivating natural phenomenon hidden within the sacred realm of the Turks & Caicos islands. This enchanting sanctuary resides on the uninhabited East Caicos, a place of unmatched magnificence and where the echoes of ancient times whisper captivating tales.
During the twilight of the ice age, the Blue Holes began their clandestine formation, emerging as supernatural gateways from the fabric of existence. These circular phenomena share the mystique of enigmatic sinkholes that permeate our world. They originated twenty millennia ago, when vast regions of North America and Europe were veiled in ice and the sea’s depths were low. Rainwater, infused with acid, delicately descended upon the exposed limestone that
once held hidden coral reefs. Drop by drop, the limestone yielded, carving deep shafts into the heart of the earth, forming intricate cavern networks interlaced within the subterranean labyrinth. As destiny shifted, the seas surged forth embracing the terrestrial kingdom once more. Celestial waters filled the sacred Blue Holes, creating separate chambers veiled in cobalt and mystery. Some of these magical chasms are nestled inland, while others are found within the shallow banks, kissed by translucent turquoise waters. Their essence is a testament to the harmonious interplay between shadow and light, creating an otherworldly spectacle that leaves beholders
in awe. These sanctuaries, shielded from oceanic forces, nurture unique ecosystems that flourish in the mesmerizing depths while colonies of resilient bacteria defy the limits of light
and oxygen. In the land of Turks & Caicos, a courageous few attuned to the murmured whispers, embark on daring expeditions to East Caicos, driven by an insatiable curiosity. They traverse the threshold between the known and the unknown, seeking to unlock the mysteries concealed within TCI’s bewildering geology, testifying to the timeless wonders of our planet. In this hour of cosmic reckoning, let us safeguard our pristine islands, preserving their ethereal beauty and cherishing the wonders they hold.
The pristine shores of our island are always vulnerable to plastic drifting through the ocean. Please help us keep the beaches clean by properly disposing of any plastic or trash you have used. We have so much to protect! “Proud of my Island” is a driving force behind the movement to become more conscious of the environment. By choosing reusable bags, you become part of the island’s effort to reduce, reuse and recycle. Let’s all limit our carbon footprint and live a more sustainable lifestyle.
SECOND COLLECTION
Mudjin Harbour on Middle Caicos
Mudjin Harbour & Rocky Dragon Cay aka Sleeping Dragon. Middle Caicos, Turks & Caicos Islands.
Mudjin Harbour
Take a 25-minute ferry ride, and you will arrive at North Caicos, one of the largest islands in the Turks and Caicos. Drive across this lush island dotted with small farms and gardens and cross the one-mile causeway to Middle Caicos.
Soon you’ll see a sign for the road to Mudjin Harbour. After parking, look for the winding stone path that will take you to the edge of a high bluff where a jaw dropping view of a pristine beach will appear like magic. Just beyond, you’ll see the jagged spine of Dragon Cay with its prominent head looking as if it’s about to crawl out of the water. Walk along the top of the bluff until the path ends at a natural tunnel. Enter carefully and emerge onto a secret beach walled off from the rest of the world. This path is the beginning of the “Crossing Point Trail” that, back in the day, natives walked to visit family and friends in scattered settlements.
The pristine shores of our island are always vulnerable to plastic drifting through the ocean. Please help us keep the beaches clean by properly disposing of any plastic or trash you have used. We have so much to protect! “Proud of my Island” is a driving force behind the movement to become more conscious of the environment. By choosing reusable bags, you become part of the island’s effort to reduce, reuse and recycle. Let’s all limit our carbon footprint and live a more sustainable lifestyle.
Humpback Whale
Humpback whale breaching. North shore of Providenciales, Turks & Caicos
The epic journey of the Humpback Whales
Every year beginning in January, humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) arrive from the nutrient rich coasts off Greenland, the Canadian Maritime Provinces, and New England to the warm waters of the Turks & Caicos Islands.
Here, the mothers give birth to calves in the shallow banks and nurture them for the long and arduous journey back in late March or early April. During this period, males compete fiercely to mate with a female, often singing as a distinct form of communication that will travel miles away. Humans too can hear the singing in the water and even feel the vibrations if close enough. The unique patterns on the underside of the fluke (tail) serve as the equivalent of a human fingerprint and allow marine scientists to identify and track them. Weighing up to 88,000 pounds (40 metric tons) and measuring 40 ft (12 m) or more in length, these magnificent cetaceans can be seen arching their backs, slapping the water with their giant pectoral fins, dramatically breaching, as shown in the picture, or just resting beneath the surface throughout the Turks & Caicos. The most popular islands for whale watching are Grand Turk and Salt Cay, with February and March being the best time for viewing or even swimming with these gentle giants under professional guidance.
Whales often ingest plastic in the ocean that can severely harm and even kill them over time. If these whales and other sea creatures are going to survive, we must ensure that our oceans remain clean. By using reusable shopping bags, you are directly helping the environment and reducing plastic that ends up in our oceans. Refuse single-use plastics and reuse and recycle as much as you can to keep our oceans and the planet healthy. Make small, conscious choices every day towards a more sustainable lifestyle.
FIRST COLLECTION
Brown Pelican
Throughout the planet there are only eight species of pelican, making us incredibly blessed to have the Brown Pelican (Pelecanus occidentalis) as a common sight in Turks and Caicos.
Having the Brown Pelican gracing our shores is made extra special by it being an excellent example of species recovery from one that was once on the brink of extinction. Seen as a comically elegant bird; clumsy on land, yet so graceful in flight, rising and falling as they glide along the coastline just inches above the water. While the smallest of the family, it is also one of only two species that feed by plunge-diving at high speed into the water to catch their prey. You can witness this spectacle along Grace Bay and all over the TCI.
This image of a Brown Pelican showing its oversized bill and sinuous neck was taken on the water’s edge at Half Moon Bay on Little Water Cay. The adult Pelican is basking in the first light of the day and the photograph was captured nice and close with a wide-angle lens. Be sure that spotting TCI’s National Bird in all its glory is on your must to do list while visiting the islands.
Kim Mortimer Photography
West Harbour Bluff (The Split)
Hidden on the remote southwest coast of Providenciales, West Harbour Bluff is a highly-scenic attraction in the Frenchman’s Creek and Pigeon Pond Nature Reserve, and brings together geology, flora and fauna, and history. This special coastal area complements the nature reserve, and adds to the natural diversity that makes the protected region a jewel in the Turks and Caicos.
Part of what makes West Harbour Bluff exceptional are the details. There’s Split Rock with its osprey nest, the small cave that has a secret access to the ocean and where Lucayan artefacts were once found, the historical rock inscriptions on the cliffs above left by shipwrecked sailors, a secluded beach, and fascinating wildlife. There’s always something interesting to see. Ospreys, brown pelicans, and white-tailed tropic birds glide by, sharks, stingrays, and eagle rays can be seen from the cliffs, and in the distance on the horizon is West Caicos and the breaking waves at distant West Reefs. Bonefish Point, a sandy spit of land nearby, is another beautiful spot close by, and supports thatch palm forests, starfish, and calm water.
It’s important that West Harbour Bluff is protected and preserved for future generations. As part of a nature reserve, fishing, the taking of any natural or historical object, graffiti, and vandalism is illegal.
Agile Levin
In May 2019, the Turks & Caicos Government took a huge turn and officially imposed a ban on plastic bags and single-use products. For us, this was like a wish come true.
So yes, we got inspired and saw reusable bags as the perfect vehicle to keep spreading what matters to us. We went above and beyond and loving what we know, we decided to pursue this simple yet essential idea. We got together with local photographers to find the perfect image, one that would feature either unique landmarks, cultural heritage, wildlife or marine life of the Turks & Caicos Islands.
And as you might agree with us, selecting the images was hard enough as all of them were beautiful and worth of showing. In the end, we accomplished our mission.
Somehow, we needed one more step to close the circle and that’s when we realized we could help people in need in times of pandemic through this, our perfect vehicle.
Proud of my Island is an inspiration to “love what you know”, get to know our island better, strengthen the pride of belonging and a call to be part of the natural resources that identify us as an island and that make us unique in the world.
Our Partners
