TCI Integrity Commission Hosts Inspiring 2025 Integrity Speak-Off

The Turks and Caicos Islands Integrity Commission successfully hosted the 2025 Integrity Speak-Off Competition on Monday, November 24th, 2025, at Beaches Resort, East Caicos Boardroom.

From 10:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., the event delivered an energizing display of intelligence, moral conviction, and youth leadership. Students showcased not only their academic strength but their commitment to ethical principles that shape strong nations.

Round 1 featured the powerful moot:

“Be it resolved, this House believes that youth involvement in integrity initiatives can transform the Commission’s effectiveness.”

Participants delivered compelling, well-researched arguments. Their statements demonstrated exceptional insight, including:

“Laws command obedience, awareness commands commitment.”

“Laws are powerless without understanding.”

“Laws punish corruption, but awareness prevents it.”

“Laws without awareness feel imposed, not embraced.”

“Awareness is not a luxury but a bridge that connects.”

“The fight against corruption begins at home and in the heart.”

Round 2 intensified the competition with a 5-minute impromptu speech segment, challenging students to respond thoughtfully and confidently to real-world integrity issues. Their poise and quick reasoning demonstrated the strength of ethical thinking under pressure.

Judges included Ms. Selena Grant (Apprenticeship Program Representative), Ms. Samadia Lightbourne (Senior Investigation Officer, Complaints Commission), Captain Dixie Smith (Maritime Operations Commander & Multi-Agency Task Force Member, TCI Regiment), and Mr. Kauome Smith (Lawyer, National Health Insurance Board).

Aligned with the International Anti-Corruption Day theme, the Speak-Off reinforced a vital message:

Knowledge without character is incomplete—and character without integrity cannot lead.

Integrity remains the foundation of leadership across every field of study and every position of trust.

Outstanding Performances

1st Place / Best Speaker: Mr. Xavier Malcolm

2nd Place: Ms. Jade Rigby

3rd Place: Kenderdine Jean

4th Place: Seth Carter

5th Place: Annette Fulford

All students performed exceptionally well. Winners received trophies, certificates, and cash prizes. The Grand Turk Campus also received a cash contribution toward a new or ongoing project.

The Commission extends appreciation to the Acting Premier Honourable Jamel Robinson, the Minister of Religious Liberty Honourable Sean Malcolm, and the Minister of Health, Honourable Kyle Knowles for attending and supporting the event, including representatives from the Department of Education along with Mr. Mark Garland (Director) and TCICC President Ms. Candice Williams, Faculty and team—reinforcing the national importance of empowering youth as ethical leaders and champions of good governance.

The passion, confidence, and vision displayed by the students proved that the future of the Turks and Caicos Islands is bright and filled with emerging leaders ready to rise with integrity.