A Conversation with Tavares Rolle: The future is ours to shape—let’s rise to the challenge

Writer Nixon Dickenson (right) is pictured here with Tavares Rolle

Voices from the Streets Article 58

By Nixon Dickenson

In this week’s Voices From The Streets, I’m honoured to share an inspiring conversation with Tavares Rolle, a young local making remarkable strides in the hospitality industry. Tavares is currently employed at Grace Bay Club and was recently named Supervisor of the Year by the Turks and Caicos Hotel and Tourism Association.

Tavares’ journey didn’t begin in a leadership role. He started as a waiter, steadily worked his way up to shift leader, and eventually earned his current position as Supervisor. His story is a testament to perseverance, humility, and hard work.

When asked about his advice for young people, Tavares emphasised three key principles:

·         Hold yourself accountable for your success.

·         Be willing to work hard.

·         Remain teachable.

He shared that starting from the bottom taught him to appreciate success and the valuable lessons learned along the way. According to Tavares, many young people who turn to gun violence and other criminal activities often do so out of frustration and a lack of clear purpose. He encourages those feeling lost or unheard to surround themselves with positive influences—people who can offer wisdom and help open doors to opportunity.

“There are many individuals in this country with the influence and connections to make a difference,” he said. “But your attitude and character must align with your ambition.”

Tavares believes that young people must hold themselves to higher standards and take responsibility for every decision they make. The path to success is not easy—it requires patience, resilience, and faith. “There will be hard days and many ‘no’s,” he said, “but prayer, perseverance, and purpose will always triumph over adversity.”

He also highlighted the urgent need for trade schools in Turks and Caicos. “Our young people have the talent,” he said, “they just need the right facilities to help them become the business owners who will drive our country forward.”

Tavares expressed concern about the impact of crime on the nation’s future. “We must not let crime destroy our beautiful country—what our forefathers worked so hard to build.” He stressed the importance of police presence in every community to ensure citizens feel safe and supported.

As Turks and Caicos Islanders, Tavares believes we must make a greater effort to uplift one another and collaborate in building businesses that will leave a lasting legacy for future generations. “National pride must be more than lip service—it must be a mission that becomes reality. Together, it’s possible.”

While there are many factors contributing to gun violence, Tavares believes the most powerful solution is simple: treat people kindly. As an employee in the bedrock of the country’s financial lifeline, he sees it as his duty and honor to treat everyone—locals and visitors alike—with kindness and respect.

“When I do this, I lead by example,” he said. “If I can do it, you can do it too.”

I was truly inspired by Tavares’ story, and I am hoping that it will be a spark for change. Whether you're a young person seeking direction, a community leader with influence, or simply someone who cares about the future of Turks and Caicos—now is the time to act. Mentor someone. Speak life into someone’s dreams. Advocate for trade schools. Support local businesses. Be the example of kindness and accountability that our communities need.

 Together, we can build a safer, stronger, and more united Turks and Caicos Islands.  Thank you, Tavares, for being a role model and for sharing your journey, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to uplifting others. Your story is a beacon of hope and a powerful reminder that with purpose, perseverance, and positivity, anything is possible. Thank you for leading by example and inspiring a generation to dream bigger and work harder.

The future is ours to shape—let’s rise to the challenge.