Grace Bay Resorts Launches Landmark Hospitality Training Program for Clement Howell High Students

Grace Bay Resorts, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, officially launched a transformative two-year hospitality training program on Friday, November 14, at the Kisiwa Villa in the Bight, Providenciales.

Members of the Turks and Caicos Islands Government, Management and Staff and staff across the Grace Bay Resorts share in a photo moment with students at the Clement Howell High School at the Kisiwa Village, which is part of the Grace Bay Resorts Private Villa Collection.

The program is designed for fourth-form Clement Howell High School students. The initiative aims to create a clear pathway from classroom learning to real-world careers in the tourism sector, the backbone of the Turks and Caicos Islands economy.

The launch ceremony brought together government ministers, hospitality executives from Grace Bay Resorts, educators, and 28 students chosen for the inaugural cohort.

“This isn’t charity, this is smart,” stated chairman for the event Almando Rigby of the Rock House, which is part of the Grace Bay Resorts.

“This program isn’t about fulfilling positions,” Rigby said. “It’s about building futures. The best talent, the most authentic energy, the people who will truly care about our guests… they’re already here in Providenciales. We just have to open the door.”

Tiffany Minnis, General Manager for the Grace Bay Resorts Private Villa Collection, and who is the initiator of the programme, was elated at its roll-out.

“This is an opportunity to showcase what this island has as young talent,” Minnis said. “I am so honored that Grace Bay Resorts took on the challenge… This program is intended to live on, not just in your fourth form but also into your fifth and continuing on.”

She added, “At the end of this, I want you to be able to say, ‘I’ve accomplished what I would like to dream big about.’”

Minister of Health and Human Services, Hon. Kyle Knowles encouraged students to take ownership of the opportunity.

“When you meet guests with questions or concerns, don’t say ‘I don’t know.’ Go and find the solution,” Knowles said. “Everyone remembers the person who takes the time to help… Let that person be you.”

He urged students to see the program not as time away from school but as “an opportunity that will definitely change your lives for the years to come.”

Minister of Tourism Hon. Zhavargo Jolly, encouraged the students to grab the opportunity with both hands, reminding them that the vocation could be a vehicle to their lifelong profession.

“This step you’re taking now is going to help you get wherever you want to go,” Jolly urged. “The smartest investment you’ll ever make is the investment in yourself… Once you learn the art of service, I promise you, you will be successful, and you will make a lot of money.”

Nikheel Advani, Chief Operation Officer of the Grace Bay Resorts, used his personal story to encourage the students. He also encouraged the students to stay focused.

“Don’t let anybody tell you you’re not good enough,” he said. “You can be whatever you want to be. I started as a dishwasher 35 years ago… and now I help run a company in one of the most amazing islands in the world.”

Advani also credited the vision and passion of program creator Tiffany Minnis.

“She believes you can be anything you want to be. And she fought to make this program happen,” Advani noted.

Thierry Grandsire, Vice President of Operations at Grace Bay Resorts, highlighted the practical motivation.

“We know the talent is here,” he said. “Some of the most talented managers and executives at Grace Bay Resorts are Turks Islanders. If we want the best, we start in the schools.”

He added, “This country allowed us to grow this company. We have a calling to give back.”

 Minister of Education Hon. Rachel Taylor delayed stressed the value of hands-on experience. She, too, encouraged the students to make most of the opportunity offered by Grace Bay Club.

“Internship is an easy matriculation into the job market. That’s your résumé right there,” she said. “And I want this program expanded throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands.”

Nadia Wilson, Vice Principal for the Clement Howell High School expressed the school’s pride and commitment to the programme.

“When I saw our students so smartly dressed in their black and white, I felt such a sense of pride,” she said. “We are committed to seeing this program succeed… We will provide the scaffolding they need to ensure their success.”

The students were also presented gift packages by Grace Bay Resorts, symbolizing the start of their two-year training journey.