The Value of Finding Solutions
- NewslineTCI
- 7 minutes ago
- 3 min read
Voices from the Streets Part 62
By Nixon Dickenson
In this week's Voices from the Streets, I am excited to share the perspective of Makhi Butterfield, a young man with a bright future.
At just 20 years old, Makhi works as a security guard at JAGS McCartney International Airport.
However, his eyes are set on the skies, he aspires to become a pilot and understands that “the journey of a thousand miles begins with the first step.”
During our conversation, Makhi shared his favourite quote by the legendary John Lennon: “There are no problems, only solutions.” This struck me deeply because, too often, we focus on the problems we face as a nation, as a community, and individually, while spending very little time valuing solutions.
Makhi believes that when we remain open-minded, present, and embrace new experiences, opportunities, and relationships, we take the proper steps toward building a safer country. He reminded us that everyone has a role to play.
Makhi spoke candidly about losing many friends to gun violence and his determination not to become a statistic. His message is clear: celebrate life and appreciate small, humble beginnings. He does this by embracing experiences, fostering personal growth, building strong relationships, and showing gratitude daily.
Living authentically and making the most of his potential keeps him grounded, and he encourages other young people to do the same. One of Makhi’s most powerful insights is that accountability is the first step in addressing crime in our country. Young people must take responsibility for their actions, decisions, and consequences rather than making excuses or blaming others. Even under pressure, we must make choices that benefit not only ourselves but future generations. He also stressed that when young people are willing to be accountable, society must be willing to forgive.
Forgiveness does not erase consequences, but it helps heal wounds and build stronger communities. Makhi is also a strong advocate for gun amnesty programs that reward young people for turning in weapons without fear of prosecution. He believes this could be a practical way to stem the rising tide of gun violence sweeping our nation.
Makhi credits his family, especially his mother, for shaping the man he is becoming. He spoke of her countless sacrifices and vowed to pay it forward when he earns his pilot’s certification. His philosophy is simple yet profound:
“A book should never be judged by its colour but by its character and its value.”
He hopes to keep pushing and working hard until his dream takes flight.
Call to Action
Makhi’s story reminds us that every dream begins with discipline and purpose. As a security officer, he protects lives today while preparing to soar tomorrow. Let’s honour his example by doing our part:
Support programs that create pathways for young people to achieve their goals—whether in aviation, security, or other fields.
Mentor and encourage those who are working hard to rise above challenges.
Join the fight against gun violence by promoting accountability and forgiveness, and by supporting initiatives like gun amnesty programs.
If Makhi can stand guard at our airport while dreaming of piloting planes, then surely, we can stand guard over our communities and help our youth take flight. The future of Turks and Caicos depends on the steps we take today.
I want to offer a heartfelt thank you to Makhi Butterfield for sharing his vision, his courage, and his wisdom. Your story inspires us all to dream big, live authentically, and take the first step toward a brighter future.