Grace Bay Resorts Foundation, Graceway Communities Collaborate on “Trash to Treasure” Earth Day Competition

In celebration of Earth Day, Grace Bay Resorts Foundation, in partnership with Graceway Communities, hosted its impactful “Trash to Treasure” initiative—an event designed to promote sustainability, creativity, and environmental awareness among the next generation.

This year’s initiative brought together students from Enid Capron Primary School, The International School of Turks and Caicos, and Ashley’s Learning Center, each showcasing innovative projects created from recycled and upcycled materials. The event highlighted how everyday waste can be transformed into functional, educational, and artistic pieces across categories such as science, home appliances, and decorative design.

Adding to the excitement of the day, the competition featured three winners across three categories. Judges evaluated entries based on creativity, use of recycled materials, transformation, craftsmanship, aesthetic appeal, functionality, story, and presentation. Winners received special prizes, while all students were surprised with additional recognitions that filled the day with joy and enthusiasm, celebrating both their achievements and their commitment to sustainability.

Students from The International School demonstrated their environmental stewardship through initiatives such as their Eco-Warriors club, gardening programs, and energy-saving practices integrated into their curriculum.

“We are so grateful to Grace Bay Resorts Foundation and Graceway Communities for this event. At The International School, we emphasize the importance of growth, responsibility, and being part of positive change. At the same time, the school actively nurtures that passion,” said Iman Rudi-Bonotti, Vice Principal of The International School. “We are proud to be a Green Flag school, and we teach our students that there is no Planet B, so it’s our responsibility to protect the environment, especially here in the beautiful Turks and Caicos.”

From Enid Capron Primary School, Grade 6 teacher Natalie Watson Robinson emphasized how sustainability is already embedded in student life. “Through our Farming in Schools and Greening of Schools projects under the Ministry of Education, our students are consistently engaged in environmental activities. Many of them already had projects prepared before the competition was even announced,” she shared. “They are passionate about protecting the environment not just for themselves, but for future generations.”

At Ashley’s Learning Center, students presented a diverse collection of upcycled crafts, including wall art made from popsicle sticks, burlap, pistachio shells, and other repurposed materials. Principal Michelle Ricardo Benson highlighted the importance of inclusion in sustainability efforts. “Through hands-on activities like recycling crafts and gardening, our students learn the value of caring for their environment. Opportunities like this reinforce what we teach every day, and they truly enjoy being part of it,” she said.

Speaking on behalf of the organizing partners, Sanajah Forbes, Board Member of Graceway Communities, underscored the broader impact of collaboration. “When local entities come together, the impact is magnified. The Trash to Treasure initiative is a powerful educational tool it shifts the perception of waste from garbage to resource while promoting creativity, sustainability, and community pride.”

She added that Graceway Community’s involvement reflects a deeper commitment to the Turks and Caicos Islands. “It’s about being an active partner in building a sustainable future and setting a standard for how organizations can support grassroots environmental initiatives.”

Adding to this sentiment, Jessica Frattolillo, Chairperson of the Grace Bay Resorts Foundation and Director of Sustainable Operations at Grace Bay Resorts, stated:“Trash to Treasure is more than an Earth Day event, it’s a reflection of our commitment to sustainability. Seeing students transform waste into meaningful, creative, and practical pieces reminds us that environmental awareness starts with education and imagination. When we invest in our youth, we invest in a more sustainable future for the islands.”

She added her gratitude, thanking the sponsors, schools, and judges for their dedication and time. “The students truly showcased their absolute best today, and we are deeply grateful to the wider Turks and Caicos community for always being so open and supportive of allowing us to display sustainability practices.”

The Grace Bay Resorts Foundation also extends sincere thanks to the event judges: Norm Rogers, a dedicated community member known for his daily clean-up efforts across the island; Lauren Bristow, Interior Designer at Grace Bay Resorts; and Davidson Louis, Marketing Coordinator at Sotheby’s International Realty. Their time, expertise, and thoughtful evaluation played an essential role in recognizing the creativity, effort, and environmental awareness demonstrated by each student participant.

The Trash to Treasure event continues to serve as a platform for young minds to innovate while reinforcing the importance of environmental responsibility across the community. Through this initiative Grace Bay Resorts Foundation and Graceway Communities are helping to cultivate a culture of sustainability that will shape the future of the islands.