Voices from the Streets Part 52- Leading by Example

Voices from the Streets columnist Nixon Dickenson (right) and his older brother, Austin Dickenson

By Nixon Dickenson

In this week’s Voices from the Streets article, I want to shine a light on a conversation with someone who means the world to me—my big brother, Austin Dickenson, also known as “Aussie.”

Aussie and I often discuss what’s happening to our young men and what we can do to make a positive impact in their lives.

Aussie is a true example of what it means to lead with purpose and passion. He’s the proud owner of Rainbow Tours, ARD Construction, and Aussie Carwash—but beyond his business success, what truly defines him is his heart for people and his commitment to building a better future. 

One of his greatest passions is coaching. As the Head Coach of the Grand Turk Rugby Team, Aussie has travelled to places like Trinidad, the Bahamas, the Dominican Republic, New York, and the United Kingdom—not just to compete, but to mentor, uplift, and shape young men into nation builders. My brother is also passionate about entrepreneurship and knows the value of hard work and perseverance. His mindset is that nothing in life can keep you down once you are willing to try again.

Aussie lives by a simple but powerful philosophy: celebrate the little things and make every moment count. His message to the youth, especially young men, is clear and heartfelt. Be mindful of who you surround yourself with. The wrong place at the wrong time can change everything. Stay away from crime, avoid drugs, and alcohol —it’s becoming a serious issue in the TCI. Focus on your education, keep your grades up, and if you’re struggling, don’t suffer in silence. Talk to someone, ask for help, you're not alone.

We also discussed the challenges our family has faced—dark moments that tested our strength. Many families in our country go through similar challenges; however, we reminisced that our parents never gave up on us. They supported us through our best and worst moments, and in all, we’ve learned that no family is perfect, and that’s okay to mess up, but we must learn from our mistakes.  Aussie shared that what matters most is the time he spends with his family and loved ones. He encourages everyone to cherish their loved ones, make time, as you never know when it might be your last chance.

In closing, let Austin’s story be a reminder that greatness isn’t just about success—it’s about service, resilience, and heart. Whether you're on the field, in the classroom, or facing life’s most challenging moments, remember this: you have the power to rise, to lead, and to make a difference. Surround yourself with people who lift you, stay focused on your goals, and never be afraid to ask for help. The future of our islands depends on the choices you make today. So choose wisely, live boldly, and always believe in your worth.

Aussie, I want you to know—I support you. I believe in you. I’ve told you before, and I’ll repeat it now: I love you, bro.