Voices from the Streets Part 56; A Conversation with Jeff Agenor on Gun Violence and Mental Health

Writer Nixon Dickenson (left) with Jeff Agenor

By Nixon Dickenson

In this week’s Voices From the Streets, I want to spotlight a compelling conversation with Jeff Agenor, a certified psychologist who spent 11 years in the United Kingdom and has returned with a renewed passion for the social welfare of young people in the Turks and Caicos Islands.

Jeff’s discourse on gun violence was both sobering and spiritually grounded. He emphasised that while prayer is essential, it must be accompanied by practical action. “We live in a society that is spiritual,” he said, “and God is spiritual—but He is also practical.” This duality, Jeff argued, must guide our approach to the mental health crisis among young men, many of whom are silently struggling.

He drew a powerful analogy from scripture: the moment Jesus wept at the death of Lazarus. “Jesus was moved by compassion,” Jeff explained. “That same compassion must be shown to our youth today.” He believes that empathy and understanding are foundational to healing—not just individually, but nationally.

Jeff stressed that the Turks and Caicos Islands are in urgent need of spiritual and social healing. “This generation needs to know that Jesus is the answer,” he said. But he also called on leaders to build trust with young people and create opportunities that steer them away from criminal activity. “It’s time for youth facilities to be built—safe spaces where they can interact, grow, and heal.”

Mental health support and value-based practices must be at the forefront of crime prevention strategies. Jeff also challenged the community to confront and dismantle stigma and discrimination based on nationality and ethnicity. “There is one God,” he reminded us, “and humankind was created in His image and likeness. There is value and beauty in every individual.”

Jeff’s profound perspective has led me to pose these critical questions to you, readers, for reflection and action:

Mental Health and Crime Prevention:

1.      What systems currently exist in the Turks and Caicos Islands to support young men struggling with mental health?

2.      How can mental health services be integrated into crime prevention strategies?

3.      Are there culturally sensitive approaches to therapy and counselling that resonate with local youth?

Spirituality & Practical Solutions

1.      How can faith-based organisations collaborate with mental health professionals to provide holistic support?

2.      What role does spiritual leadership play in shaping youth perspectives on violence and healing?

Youth Engagement & Safe Spaces

1.      What barriers exist to building youth facilities in the country, and how can they be overcome?

2.      How can young people be involved in designing and leading these safe spaces?

Leadership & Trust Building

1.      What steps can community leaders take to build trust with youth who feel marginalised or unheard?

2.      How can mentorship programs be structured to provide consistent guidance and support?

Stigma, Discrimination & Inclusion

1.      What policies or practices currently contribute to stigma based on nationality or ethnicity?

2.      How can schools, churches, and community centres promote inclusivity and celebrate diversity?

Over the past decade, the surge in homicides and gun violence in the Turks and Caicos Islands has been alarming. In 2013, there were only 4 murders, but by 2024, that number had surged to 48. Many of these violent incidents are believed to involve young men, often linked to gang activity and social disenfranchisement.  Like Jeff, I too believe that understanding the root causes of crime and mental health struggles allows policymakers, educators, and community leaders to make evidence-based decisions. Without data and insight, interventions may be misdirected or ineffective.

Thank you, Jeff, for your unwavering commitment to addressing one of the most pressing issues facing our nation—gun violence and the mental health crisis among our youth. Your voice will make a difference and bring clarity, compassion, and conviction to a conversation where solutions are desperately needed.