National Youth Awards 2026 Celebrates Excellence And Achievement

The Department of Youth Affairs proudly hosted the second biennial National Youth Awards on Saturday, 7 February 2026, bringing together Cabinet Members, dignitaries, awardees, students, parents, well-wishers, and members of the media for a grand black-tie ceremony dedicated to celebrating the outstanding achievements of young people across the Turks and Caicos Islands.

The recipients who won awards at the National Youth Awards 2026

 With an audience of over 200 attendees, the formal event shone a national spotlight on youth who continue to make exceptional contributions within their communities and respective fields. A total of 31 awards were presented to deserving young individuals and organisations in recognition of their talent, leadership, service, and innovation.

 The evening featured a number of distinguished highlights, including a flawlessly executed Flag Parade by the TCI Cadet Corps, musical performances by the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force Band and the Provision Band, and a captivating saxophone performance by Youth in Performing Arts Award winner, Mr. Deangelo McLeod. The ceremony was expertly guided by hosts Ms. Shakiah Lewis and Mr. Ashley Brooks, whose professionalism and charisma ensured a smooth and engaging programme.

 Each awardee received a handcrafted trophy designed by local artisan Mr. Stanford Handfield, reflecting the culture, creativity, and dedication embodied by the nation’s youth. Throughout the evening, video features showcased the various initiatives and programmes spearheaded by the Ministry of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, highlighting continued investments in youth development across the islands.

 The ceremony was further honoured by remarks from Her Excellency the Governor, the Honourable Premier, and the Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, Honourable Rachel Taylor, each commending the awardees and reaffirming the Government’s commitment to empowering young people.

L-R Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education and Recipient of the Young Professional Awards – Arnelle Taylor-Hall

 In her address, Honourable Rachel Taylor, Minister of Education, Youth, Sports and Culture, stated: “Tonight, we celebrate the extraordinary talent, resilience, and dedication of our young people. These awardees represent the very best of the Turks and Caicos Islands, and their achievements remind us that when we invest in our youth, we invest in the future of our nation. The Government remains steadfast in its commitment to creating opportunities that empower every young person to thrive.”

 2026 National Youth Award Recipients:

Youth in Education – Mia-Lionelle Henry

Youth in Sports (Senior) – Deajah Smith

Youth in Sports (Junior) – Carmelo Cartwright

Youth in Entrepreneurship – Wayne Gardiner

Youth in Art and Culture – Tinell Garland

Youth in Performing Arts – Deangelo McLeod

Youth in Literary Arts – Jeffca Forbes

Youth in Religion – Onilia Richards

Environmental Stewardship Award – Luis Serpas

Youth in Health and Wellness – Maya Saunders

Youth in Media – Zoya Faessler

Youth Influencer – Ashad Bain

Youth in Agriculture – Tevin Ramsey

Young Professional – Arnelle Taylor-Hall

Youth in Community Service – A’Janae Robinson

Youth in Innovation and STEM – Myah Audae Simpson

Youth in Cosmetology and Barbering – Harolyn Forbes

Youth Ally – Charvis Ferguson

Personal Triumph – Jermaine Williams Jr.

Young Artisan / Skilled Trade – Imran Hoza

Youth in Tourism – Compton Clarke

Unsung Hero – Kenson Odena

Premier’s Award – Chelsea Been

Youth Organisation – Key Club

Corporate Award – Graceway Communities

Stalwart in Youth Development (Providenciales) – Roxann Wake Forbes

Stalwart in Youth Development (North Caicos) – Reniko Taylor

Stalwart in Youth Development (Middle Caicos) – Brieanna Forbes

Stalwart in Youth Development (South Caicos) – Camiko Lewis

Stalwart in Youth Development (Grand Turk) – Shakiah Lewis

Stalwart in Youth Development (Salt Cay) – Enrique Dickenson

Unity Through Excellence Award – Bereniece Dickenson Martinez

The Department of Youth Affairs has extended sincere gratitude to all partners, sponsors, volunteers, performers, presenters, and supporters who contributed to the planning and successful execution of this national event. Appreciation is also extended to those who tuned in via social media and radio broadcasts.

Her Excellency Dileeni Daniel-Selvaratnam, The Governor of the Turks and Caicos Islands

Members of the public who were unable to attend are invited to re-watch the full live broadcast on the Turks and Caicos Islands Government Facebook Page. The official National Youth Awards Booklet may also be accessed online for detailed information on nominees and award categories at: https://online.pubhtml5.com/kvhar/sgga/.

 The National Youth Awards continues to stand as a beacon of inspiration, encouraging young people throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands to pursue excellence, serve their communities, and realise their full potential.