One Eleuthera Foundation Annual Impact Report 2023/2024

About Us

Who We Are:

One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) is a nonprofit community development organization incorporated in the Commonwealth of The Bahamas. Led by a committed team and Board of Directors, OEF is part of an organic collaboration of different community actors and organizations that have recognized the island’s challenges, opportunities, and assets and have committed to developing a comprehensive, sustainable plan for Eleuthera. We represent a gathering of professionals and organizations that share a commitment to A Shared Vision for South Eleuthera built on the responsible stewardship and development of our island’s many assets and resources.

One Eleuthera Foundation of the U.S. (OEF-US) is a registered 501(c)3 headquartered in the Carolinas. Founded in 2016, its mission is to support the work of OEF and its partners as they transform local communities into thriving, successful, and scalable models of sustainable development and progressive change.

The Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) is an Eleuthera-based nonprofit birthed and powered by OEF. As the primary education and innovation arm of OEF, CTI’s mission is to develop students through technical training. CTI’s vision is to become the country’s leading institution for tertiary training and skills development, focused on driving local innovation and creating economic opportunities in areas critical to the sustainable development of Eleuthera and The Bahamas.

CTI’s three social enterprises include Farmer’s Table restaurant, The Retreat Hotel and The Farm at CTI. Located at our Rock Sound campus and powered by OEF, these nonprofit operations provide handson industry training for students. Proceeds from our supportive customers help offset labor, food costs and other direct expenses. Any excess proceeds are reinvested into additional student training. Through offering various programs in agriculture, culinary arts, hospitality, and the construction trades, OEF and CTI are empowering and developing the island’s workforce.

Full Circle Annual Impact Report:

OEF’s journey from ‘gift to impact’ is a dynamic cycle every year, much like the earth’s orbit. Each Annual Impact Report reflects how our investments of time, expertise, and finances help to complete the circle and drive momentum to strengthen communities, connect our island, and shape a more equitable, sustainable future.

This Year’s Theme: “Elevating Together”

Elevating Together speaks to fostering a culture of collaboration and shared purpose as we join forces to uplift communities and transform lives. It’s about uniting diverse talents and passions, breaking down silos, and embracing innovation to drive meaningful change. Together, we create a powerful force for good, amplifying our collective impact and building a future that reflects our highest aspirations for equity, sustainability, and progress.

From the Chairman

I am pleased to present the 2023/2024 Annual Impact Report for One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF), which highlights the significant progress made during the year. As I conclude my tenure as Chairman of One Eleuthera, it continues to be an immense privilege and joy for me to acknowledge and support the impactful work of OEF in communities across Eleuthera.

VISION: To facilitate Eleuthera in becoming a thriving, inclusive, and equitable community-driven ecosystem for sustainable development, social empowerment, and economic ownership.

MISSION: To transform communities into thriving, successful, and scalable models of sustainable development and progressive change. We accomplish this through planning, strengthening, and connecting.

1 2 3

PLANNING and innovating for a sustainable future.

STRENGTHENING people, communities, key organizations, and partners.

CONNECTING communities to knowledge, resources, and capital to effect sustainable development and progressive long-term change.

Four years ago, I assumed the chairmanship of OEF in an environment dominated by the Covid-19 Pandemic, which changed the way that we socialized with friends, family and the wider community and resulted in The Bahamas experiencing the worst crisis since the Great Depression. Despite all the challenges, OEF remained focused on its mission to empower Eleutherans which has resulted in the expansion of its campus training facilities and educational programs, the acceleration of its food security efforts, the facilitation of entrepreneurial opportunities and the strengthening of its partners and social enterprises.

This year has been an exciting time of board renewal as we celebrated the contributions of our founding members, like Founding President Shaun Ingraham and other longtime employees and supporters. During the year we also welcomed new members to the Board, including President and CEO Keyron Smith, who has brought a fresh perspective to the organization and its future participation in the social sector. I am excited to see the movement of OEF from a singular voice on the many needs of the sector to a thought leader committed to bringing the nonprofit, for-profit and government sectors together to collaborate on solutions to address The Bahamas’ greatest challenges. I am so proud of all that One Eleuthera has accomplished and the impact of the Foundation’s efforts on the lives of my fellow Eleutherans.

to personally thank the management and staff of OEF and my colleagues on the Board for supporting me throughout my tenure. I will forever be grateful for the guidance and insights that you provided on key strategic priorities and future areas of growth and focus.

I remain confident that together, we will continue to strengthen our organization and make a lasting change in our community for years to come.

Authors: Yolanda Pawar, Lane Glaze, Keyron Smith, Saiydah Bryan Design: Renée Regnier Photography: Yolanda Pawar, Saiydah Bryan, Glass Window Studios - glasswindowstudios.com

Mario Smith Chairman

Mario Smith | Chairman

MarioSmith

From the Desk of the CEO

Keyron Smith | President & CEO

As I reflect on the past year, one truth stands out more clearly than ever: growth is not just a goal we aim for but a mindset we must embrace. It’s about seeing every challenge as an opportunity to learn and improve. At the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI), this mindset drives us forward, serving as the foundation for everything we do.

This past year has been a time of remarkable progress for our organization—not just in the tangible results of our initiatives but in how we face and navigate change as a team. We have learned to step confidently into uncertainty, meet challenges with resilience, and explore the full scope of what is possible for our communities and organizations. We have fostered a culture of innovation, adaptability, and collaborative growth by expanding educational opportunities in our training programs and cultivating new partnerships.

Yet, our success is only possible through nurturing people and cultivating partnerships. Our strength lies in our connections—with community members, donors, partners, and each other. These relationships fuel our growth and elevate our impact.

Together, we are creating opportunities for individuals and communities to thrive, elevate, and build a brighter future for Eleuthera. Our focus has not been solely on achieving results but on fostering leadership and ownership within the communities we serve. We are dedicated to providing pathways that equip individuals with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to realize their full potential. By cultivating a culture of continuous learning and development, we are planting the seeds for sustainable change that will empower not just this generation but those to come. Looking to the future, our vision is expansive and rooted in the continued evolution of our people and

island. In the coming year, we will invest in elevating ecotourism on the island with the development of new nature and birding trails at CTI. We will break ground on a much-anticipated hospitality and events pavilion designed to host hospitality training programs, affordable retreats, weddings, and cultural events that blend Eleuthera’s natural charm with toptier service.

We are also proud to announce the launch of a demonstrative food forest and regenerative agriculture orchard on the CTI Farm. A key component of our commitment to sustainable farming practices, this initiative will serve as a model for food security and ecological balance in our region. In line with our growth mindset, the expansion of CTI’s Learn and Earn courses will continue to provide young people and adults with access to education and the technical skills to thrive in an ever-changing economy.

Our vision also extends to the Blue Economy. We will begin training and preparing cohorts of students to participate in new opportunities for sustainable livelihoods in marine conservation, fisheries, and ecotourism. We are equally committed to expanding our Learn to Swim program into schools across Eleuthera to ensure more children have access to this life-saving skill.

“If everyone is moving forward together, then success takes care of itself.”

- Henry Ford

Beyond our direct initiatives, we recognize the importance of strengthening the entire nonprofit sector to support national development and better respond to natural disasters. Through the launch of our Social Good Accelerator, we will work hand-in-hand with other nonprofit organizations across The Bahamas, sharing knowledge, resources, and expertise to amplify our impact. This Accelerator will help replicate the success of OEF’s model in communities nationwide and regionally, fostering collaboration and driving meaningful change throughout the archipelago.

The future we are building holds tremendous promise, and our commitment to elevating together has never been stronger. We are determined to rise as a united force, strengthen our bonds, and continue pushing the boundaries of what we can accomplish for our communities, islands, and regions—together! Thank you for your unwavering belief in our mission and vision.

MOVING THE NEEDLE

Celebrating A Year of Elevated Goals and Successful Partnerships

Deliberate, strategic actions lead to measurable progress and meaningful change, and this past year has been a fantastic example of just that! Together with our partners, donors, and local communities at One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI), we have invested in innovative solutions, addressed pressing needs, cultivated a sense of hope, and equipped and empowered our people through education and practical training.

Marked by elevated goals and successful partnerships, this year has allowed us to expand our reach, but also deepen our impact and influence in our five key areas of focus: Economy, Education, Environment, Health, and Heritage.

As we celebrate our accomplishments of the last twelve months, we are proud to highlight a few of our favorite stories that point to even brighter possibilities as we continue to elevate together!

The Farm at CTI Continues To Transform Eleuthera’s Local Food System

This year, our thriving community-based sustainable farm has extended its growing season and improved the island's food security. Using hydroponic methods and the CTI’s revolutionary Oasis Grow House, The Farm at CTI has been successful at cultivating a wide variety of fresh, high-quality fruits and vegetables year-round.

Access to affordable, healthful produce has been transformative for the community. With crops grown free of harmful pesticides and fertilizers, the nutrient-rich produce offers significant health benefits to local families.

More than 30 local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and grocers— spanning the island from south to north—have seen the benefits. The farm’s ability to provide produce with a longer shelf life, paired with reduced costs from direct sourcing, has helped these businesses improve their bottom line while offering customers better access to nutritious, affordable food.

The Farm at CTI continues to evolve as a model of sustainable agriculture, demonstrating how local innovations can strengthen food security, enhance community health, and boost economic growth.

Local School Seedlings Program Cultivates Future Farmers and Entrepreneurs

Earlier in the year, One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) launched a local School Seedlings Program to help cultivate young farmers and engage youth at Preston H. Albury High School and Central Eleuthera High School. Both schools received seeds and seedlings donated by OEF to strengthen their respective agriculture programs.

Through this initiative, students gained hands-on experience in sustainable agriculture, learning the essentials of planting, harvesting, and nurturing crops while integrating these practices into the curriculum under the careful guidance of each school’s Agriculture Department.

President and CEO of OEF, Keyron Smith, Wins the 2024 Sustainable Tourism Leadership Award

Keyron Smith, President and CEO of One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI), was honored this year with the 2024 Sustainable Tourism Leadership Award courtesy of the Caribbean Journal, the world’s largest website covering Caribbean travel. This award was part of The Bahamas Travel and Sustainability Awards held in conjunction with The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism to celebrate leaders advancing sustainable tourism through innovative development and community-driven practices.

OEF and CTI spearhead agritourism, sustainable community development, hospitality, and vocational training on Eleuthera. Keyron’s recognition highlights his leadership in promoting responsible economic opportunities that balance environmental preservation with community upliftment and advancement. As the Bahamas’ tourism sector grows, OEF and CTI will continue demonstrating the importance of sustainable development in shaping Eleuthera's future.

Beyond the field, students develop entrepreneurial skills by harvesting and selling the produce grown. Sales generated help to keep each school's farm running, ensuring the continuity of the program and reinforcing valuable lessons in business and economics for students.

This initiative fosters a deeper appreciation for sustainable farming, builds strong roots, and develops practical skills that can open doors to future careers in agriculture and entrepreneurship. In this way, young people contribute to local food security and learn the value of self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship.

Clemson University Students and OEF Map A Promising Future for Tarpum Bay

Clemson University’s Landscape Architecture students recently teamed up with One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and community stakeholders to render a sustainable development plan for the Tarpum Bay waterfront. Under the guidance of Dr. Hala Nassar, Clemson’s Professor of Landscape Architecture, the students incorporated community input, innovation, technology, and best practices to draft a holistic plan for the area. Initiated last year, the program engaged the Sophomore students in a community mapping exercise to explore innovative ways to transform the area while preserving its natural beauty and cultural heritage.

After months of research and design, the students presented their concepts in May, featuring sustainable strategies that maximize the bay's natural ecosystems and geography. The proposed plans emphasized ecoconscious development, culture-centric commerce, heritage spaces, and social gathering areas that meet the community’s needs. This partnership highlights OEF’s commitment to fostering innovation and sustainable development to help shape a prosperous and balanced future for Eleuthera.

Sixty-three Eleutherans Graduate with New Skills from CTI

In June 2024, sixty-three Eleutherans proudly graduated from the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI), receiving certifications that will enhance their career opportunities and entrepreneurial prospects. CTI continues to play a pivotal role in empowering local communities by offering a variety of technical and vocational courses and workshops year-round.

OEF Donates Over $56,000 in Hurricane Disaster Relief Supplies

One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) significantly contributed to disaster preparedness on Eleuthera this year by donating over $56,000 in essential hurricane relief supplies to local organizations and disaster response agencies. This generous donation has equipped local communities across the island with crucial equipment as we navigate this and future hurricane seasons.

The relief supplies, including chainsaws, generators, first aid kits, life jackets, and other critical safety equipment, were distributed to key organizations, including the Royal Bahamas Police Force, the Health Association of Central Eleuthera, local government offices, Men of Faith, and South Eleuthera Emergency Partners (SEEP).

Empowering place-based organizations and local agencies with these tools is essential to ensuring they can mobilize quickly before and after disasters like hurricanes. This readiness will enable them to save lives, stabilize affected communities, and speed up the return to normalcy. As Eleuthera faces increasing risks from severe storms, OEF’s contribution is crucial in building local resilience and strengthening disaster response capabilities.

When Academic Worlds Collide: A Week of Entrepreneurial Magic

When two innovative academic worlds collide, magic happens! This year’s one-week business and entrepreneurship intensive on Harbour Island was a testament to that.

The program brought together Entrepreneurship students from the Centre for Training and Innovation’s Harbour Island Trade (CTI-HITS) and undergraduate students and faculty from Wake Forest University's Center for Entrepreneurship.

From the first session to the exciting business pitch grand finale, students worked sideby-side, expanding their horizons and gaining fresh perspectives on business and entrepreneurship. Participants honed their entrepreneurial skills and formed lasting

connections, deepening their understanding of each other and the global business landscape in this enriching crossborder exchange.

The intensive was more than just a learning experience—it was a catalyst for personal growth. Students gained a broadened worldview, newfound confidence in their abilities and the entrepreneurial tools to turn their ideas into reality. The program’s success underscores the importance of entrepreneurship, global learning, and the power of collaboration in shaping the future for young innovators. Plans are underway to facilitate the program again next year.

Special thanks to Friends of HITS Board Directors Lisa and Rick Anderson who were instrumental in organizing and hosting this innovative program.

On June 14th, thirty-eight students from CTI-HITS on Harbour Island earned certificates in QuickBooks, Entrepreneurship, and Advanced Electrical Installation. Two days earlier, twenty-five students from South Eleuthera graduated in QuickBooks, Basic Culinary, Carpentry, and Introduction to Hydroponics. These programs equip individuals of all ages with indemand skills, opening doors to full-time employment, entrepreneurship, and new careers.

Recognizing the unique economic challenges facing communities in South Eleuthera, CTI’s Learn and Earn program in Rock Sound provides students with a weekly stipend to support and assist them. This temporary income compensates for time invested in learning and eases the transition for those changing career tracks. CTI’s accredited courses, recognized by NAECOB, blend hands-on training with theoretical learning, emphasizing service-based projects. With each graduation, CTI celebrates the success and elevation of its students and a brighter future for Eleuthera’s people, workforce and community development.

Training Future Nurses and Elevating Access to Healthcare

Since 2005, a longstanding partnership between One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and Emory University has enabled nursing students from the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing to embark on transformative, life-changing study abroad experiences on Eleuthera.

This year’s Spring Break trip was no exception, as cohorts of nursing students visited and immersed themselves in Eleuthera’s healthcare system, providing support in governmentrun clinics across the island. For these future healthcare leaders, the opportunity to train in rural healthcare settings and learn innovative, adaptive practices to deliver quality patient care was a valuable and rare experience.

Stationed at the clinics, the students collaborated with local nurses and doctors, gaining hands-on experience that enriched their education and sharpened their clinical skills. Additionally, they led health education initiatives in local schools and community centers, empowering residents with knowledge on nutrition and the management of noncommunicable diseases.

OEF is proud to be a part of this transformative legacy program. It continues to leave a lasting impact on students and underserved communities, fostering a deeper cultural awareness and creating connections that last a lifetime.

OEF Celebrates 12 Years With Harvest Haven Fundraiser & Community Events

The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) celebrated its 12th anniversary on April 22nd (Earth Day) with a series of dynamic events highlighting community engagement and sustainability. The week of festivities included the organization’s inaugural “Harvest Haven” fundraising dinner at CTI’s Retreat Hotel. Guests delighted in an enjoyable evening featuring exquisite culinary offerings and live entertainment. This event honored OEF's Founding Members and raised funds to advance ongoing community development programs. Title sponsors included Bahamas Striping Group of Companies and Insurance Management Ltd.

The observance of Earth Day was a focal point of the Anniversary events which included a campus-wide festival and Youth Sustainability Art and Craft Expo for local schools. This community event showcased local artisans, food vendors, and sustainability-focused activities that engaged residents and visitors.

Additionally, staff participated in a community clean-up to reduce plastic waste in public spaces. This initiative underscored OEF's commitment to the environment while uniting staff, local partners and supporters in a fun, community clean up exercise.

OEF's Community Greens Giveaway: Cultivating Health Through Nutrition

Greens are on the go, thanks to One Eleuthera Foundation’s (OEF's) Community Greens Giveaway. This initiative is designed to promote healthy eating and improve food accessibility on Eleuthera. By distributing nutritious leafy greens to community members, local organizations, associations and churches, OEF is encouraging residents to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diets.

This initiative aligns with OEF’s mission to foster wellness and promote the management of noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) through better nutrition. By raising awareness about the impact of diet on health, the giveaways not only provide fresh produce but also serve as a platform for community education around healthy eating habits.

OEF's Community Greens Giveaway empowers individuals and groups to take charge of their health. Through this program we aim to nurture a healthier, more informed population invested in wellness and an improved quality of life.

Celebrating Success: The Farm at CTI's Achievements in Food Production

This year, the Farm at CTI has made significant strides in enhancing food security and increasing community access to nutritious food. The farm successfully ran its first summer production trial, extending the traditional growing season and gaining valuable insights along the way. The team maximized the shading and protective functions of the Oasis Grow House to regulate conditions inside the facility and also opted for more heat-tolerant and disease and pest-resistant crops. For the first time, the farm produced lettuce and cucumbers year-round despite extreme and unfavorable summer temperatures.

The “Farm Fridays” vegetable stand sales resumed and led to a seamless transition to the Farmers Table restaurant, where a new vegetable retail cooler now makes fresh produce available daily. This season also saw the addition of new crops, including red and yellow bell peppers, green beans, broccoli, broccolini, and baby cauliflower to the diverse mix of thirty crops. Growing systems like the hydroponic tower for growing herbs and the deep-water hydroponic pool, along with natural soil enhancements and composting methods, further contributed to the farm’s success and sustainability. It was a season of firsts and valuable lessons learned as we continue to elevate agriculture on Eleuthera.

OEF: A Model of Innovation and Success for The Caribbean

One Eleuthera Foundation’s (OEF's) vision is to facilitate Eleuthera in becoming a thriving, inclusive, and equitable community-driven ecosystem for sustainable development, social empowerment, and economic ownership. We are pioneering a community development model that is place-based, people-focused, and designed to strengthen communities through innovative problemsolving and the elevation of people, programs, and paradigms within the communities we serve. Our blueprint of trials and successes, combined with our “Shared Vision” for the future, offers other communities, island nations, and Small Island Developing States (SIDS) the opportunity to not just replicate our model but to work alongside us in bringing lift, collective advancement and elevation to the region.

We are always honored to welcome visitors from other Caribbean countries to observe our work and the systems we are nurturing. It is our hope that our work can be helpful in creating a roadmap to sustainability and selfsufficiency. We recently hosted a delegation of Local Government officials from the Turks and Caicos Islands, who were on Eleuthera conducting training. The group learned about OEF's social enterprises, technical training programs and unique strategies for addressing national challenges at a community level.

OEF Invests Over $350,000 in Elevating & Empowering Eleutherans

The One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) continues to make transformative contributions, focusing on elevating individuals, strengthening communities, and expanding the reach and scope of local community-based organizations on Eleuthera.

This fiscal year, OEF has awarded $18,000 in scholarship funding from the Cotton Bay Fund, supporting 16 students pursuing higher education at colleges and universities abroad. Another $56,389 was disbursed in community grants from the Cotton Bay Fund to support local organizations in South Eleuthera that are addressing important community needs.

To promote sustainable livelihoods and skills development, $262,671 was allocated through CTI and CTI-HITS for vocational and technical trades scholarships, empowering Eleutherans to gain industry-recognized skills and national certifications. Additionally, OEF provided an additional $13,479 in community grants to enhance local programs, particularly those aligned with OEF’s five key areas of focus.

These targeted investments are a testament to our unwavering commitment to creating opportunities for progress, innovation, and resilience—as we empower Eleutherans and elevate together.

Petra Kemp, South Eleuthera

Cotton Bay Fund, Scholarship Recipient June 2024 Graduate: Nova Southeastern University

“Because of my scholarship, I have been able to pursue my passion and obtain a Bachelors in Biology with a minor in Pre-Health. The financial assistance you provided has allowed me to achieve numerous accomplishments and reach new heights during my time in college.

In addition to excelling academically, I have also had the opportunity to give back to my community. I have served as a mentor for other Bahamian students, joined the Caribbean Student Association, and served as an e-board member of the Black Women in Medicine organization.

Furthermore, I am proud to share that I became a spring 2024 initiate of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated. Your support has enabled me to pursue my academic goals and empowered me to become a leader and advocate for others. I am truly grateful for the opportunities that your scholarship has provided me, and I will continue to strive for excellence in all my endeavors. Thank you for your generosity and belief in my potential.”

Scholarship funding disbursed from the Cotton Bay Fund via OEF: $18,000

Students educated through CTI and CTI-HITS since inception: 500+

Students currently studying abroad and receiving Cotton Bay Fund scholarship funding: 16

Community grant funding provided to local organizations from the Cotton Bay Fund via OEF this fiscal year: $56,389

CTI and CTI-HITS vocational and technical trades scholarship funding provided to Eleutherans this fiscal year:

$262,671

Community grant funding provided by OEF to local organizations: $13,479

Learn to Swim Participants Since Inception: 287 LTS Students | Year 4 : 60 (5-14 yrs) 12 (18-70 yrs) 82% of students assessed demonstrated competency in at least 5 of the 9 swim skills

Retailers, hotels, and restaurants benefiting from direct sourcing of produce from the CTI Farm: 30 Over 130 students and faculty members visited the island and OEF on service-based trips this fiscal year, contributing valuable community service hours and directly investing thousands of dollars in local businesses and our economy Variety of fresh produce and herbs grown on the CTI Farm: 30 Farm Volunteer Hours Logged: 503 OEF remains one of the largest employers in South Eleuthera, supporting over 45 salaried staff

STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES

Mom Reclaims Lost

Dreams and Elevates Through Education

Shonell Maxcine Wilson CTI-HITS Student, North Campus Courses:

Entrepreneurship 101: Doing Business in The Bahamas (Fall 2023) QuickBooks 1 (Fall 2023) QuickBooks 2 (Spring 2024)

Shonell Maxcine Wilson—a devoted mother of five—recently embarked on a remarkable journey of selfdiscovery, reviving her long-dormant dreams of further education.

For over two decades, Shonell happily dedicated herself to the roles of wife, mother and entrepreneur. Nurturing and supporting her children and family was always a top priority. Still, Shonell also found the time to turn her talents and passion projects into business ventures in her community on Harbour Island.

As the years passed and her children matured into young adults, Shonell decided to return to school. In 2023, she proudly earned her GED, but this was just the beginning. Building momentum from this step, she searched for additional avenues to accelerate her growth without leaving home.

In the fall of 2023, she decided to follow in her son’s footsteps. She enrolled as a student at The Centre for Training and Innovation’s Harbour Island Trade School (CTI-HITS), knowing this decision would provide her with the access, knowledge and business acumen she needed to elevate.

Shonell doubled down and embraced the challenge of dual enrollment in both the Entrepreneurship 101 and QuickBooks 1 courses offered. She poured herself into learning while juggling a hectic schedule as a fulltime student, busy entrepreneur, and dedicated homemaker. The following semester, she continued her academic journey with the QuickBooks 2 Course, and her determination paid off. Shonell was able to earn three professional certificates in less than a year.

The courses she studied did not just impart new skills but became a catalyst for transformation, exposing Shonell to her potential and giving her the launchpad to take her businesses to the next level. She has since streamlined her operations and applied her accounting and entrepreneurial training to make her ventures more efficient, freeing up valuable time to focus on future growth and expansion.

Shonell’s three businesses, Briland Art, Harbour Island Massage, and Monica’s Fresh Fruit Smoothies, continue to thrive and blossom. Looking ahead, she envisions expanding Monica’s Fresh Fruit Smoothies with a mobile truck and eventually a café. For Harbour Island Massage, she dreams of establishing a spa and training others in massage therapy. Briland Art is also poised for greater things, with plans to expand into a larger space.

Shonell’s story is about more than just personal achievement—it’s about inspiring others to chase their dreams, no matter the stage of life. “Just start,” she says. “Have a plan and a goal, but don’t be afraid to take the leap. It’s not always easy, but with dedication and commitment, you can create the life you want for yourself and your family.”

STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES cont:

The Queen

of Cooking Takes on Carpentry

Pamela Whitfield CTI Student, South Campus Course: Introduction to Carpentry (Fall 2023)

As the Sous Chef at CTI’s Farmer’s Table restaurant, Pamela Whitfield delights in showcasing her creativity through cooking. You would not expect to see her operating a table saw or hammering nails, but Pam’s versatility teaches us that you can’t judge a book by its cover or limit a person’s capability.

As the only woman in the fall 2023 Introduction to Carpentry course at the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI), Pamela defied expectations, showcasing her determination to master a trade traditionally dominated by men. Her educational journey is a testament to her belief that stepping outside one’s comfort zone can lead to unexpected and rewarding growth.

Pamela’s decision to pursue carpentry was driven by a desire to do something out of the ordinary. “I wanted to do something different, something that goes beyond every day,” she recalls. While the course presented challenges, particularly in learning to handle new tools, Pamela credits her supportive instructor and the camaraderie of her classmates with making the experience both educational and enjoyable. “Even the guys in the class were encouraging. It was a team effort, and that made all the difference,” she says.

Although Pamela doesn’t plan to make carpentry her primary profession, she sees it as a valuable skill for personal projects and a creative outlet. “It’s more of a hobby for me, something I can do in my free time, whether it’s working on small projects around the house or experimenting with new ideas,” she explains.

Being the only female in the class, Pamela brought a unique perspective that inspired her younger male classmates. “They looked up to me like a big sister or even a mother figure, and I think that motivated them to push themselves,” she shares proudly. One of her most memorable moments in the course was when the entire class came together to build benches. “At first, I couldn’t even hold a drill, but by the end, we had created something tangible together. It was a proud moment for all of us,” she reflects.

Pamela envisions continuing to grow both personally and professionally. She dreams of one day running her own business, whether it’s in cooking, carpentry, or another venture that blends her diverse skills. Her advice to other women is simple: “Get out of your comfort zone. Don’t just stick to what you know—try something new. You never know where it might lead.”

Elevating Success Through Education

Jermaine Plakaris CTI-HITS Student, North Campus Courses:

Electrical Installation (Summer 2023)

Advanced Electrical Installation Single Phase (Spring 2024)

Jermaine Plakaris, a self-employed electrician, has steadily carved out a successful career by harnessing the power of education and practical experience. With his hands-on approach and a drive to formalize his knowledge, Jermaine’s journey to self-development through the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) has been nothing short of transformative.

Jermaine's introduction to the world of electrical work began as a teenager when his stepmother encouraged him to pick up a trade during his summer break. At the time, he knew little about the field but quickly learned the ropes by teaming up with an experienced local electrician. Despite his initial lack of experience, Jermaine immersed himself in the practical work, often doing much of the physical labour while learning under his mentor's guidance.

Over the years, Jermaine dabbled in various professions, including barbering, but his passion for electrical work remained strong. When he heard about the courses offered at the Centre for Training and Innovation's Harbour Island Trade School (CTI-HITS) he saw an opportunity to solidify his skills with formal training. In 2023, Jermaine completed the Electrical Installation course, followed in 2024

by the Advanced Electrical Installation Single Phase course. These courses provided him with the theoretical knowledge he previously lacked, bridging the gap between practical experience and a deep understanding of the work he was already doing.

"The courses at CTI-HITS helped me immensely, especially with the theory behind electrical work," Jermaine reflects. "Before, I could do the job, but I didn’t always understand ‘the why’ behind it. Now, I have the confidence to take on more complex projects and even pursue my electrical licenses."

This elevated confidence has opened doors for Jermaine, allowing him to expand his business and engage in larger contracts. He now has his sights set on mastering three-phase electrical work and continuing to grow his business. More than personal success, Jermaine desires to inspire others, especially young people, to pursue trades and technical skills. "My goal is to show others that if you put your mind to it, you can achieve great things," he says. "It’s not easy, but once you have the determination, the rest falls into place."

Jermaine’s story demonstrates the power of perseverance and the value of education in shaping a successful career. As he continues to build his business and mentor others, he remains committed to lifelong learning, proving that the possibilities are endless with the right mindset.

STUDENT SUCCESS STORIES cont:

Cultivating Curiosity and Nurturing Young Dreams

Timberly Morley & Timothy Morley CTI Students, South Campus Course:

Introduction to Hydroponics (Spring 2024)

At just fifteen years old, Timberly Morley has already started planting seeds for a bountiful harvest in sustainable agriculture. She successfully completed the Introduction to Hydroponics course offered in the fall of 2023 at the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI). Alongside her, with equal enthusiasm, was her precocious nine-year-old brother Tim, who eagerly attended every class. Tim did not officially graduate, but instead he received a certificate of attendance. The experience of learning side-by-side with this big sister became a memorable and valuable chapter in their young lives.

For Timberly, a standout student in agriculture at Preston H. Albury High School in Rock Sound, the decision to take the course was deeply rooted in her love for agriculture. Having her younger brother tag along made the learning process even more enjoyable. “It really brought a laid-back and special vibe to the moments where we learned and discussed topics that we had never even thought about before,” she shared.

The course opened the siblings’ eyes to the possibilities of becoming young farmers who, even at this tender age, can consider ways to address food shortages through

innovative techniques like hydroponic growing. “Seeing Tim get engaged and mastering things added an extra layer of fun to the whole experience,” she notes. Despite being the youngest present, Tim found great joy and pride in being a welcomed part of such an advanced class. He marveled at how plants could grow without soil, which completely changed his perspective on farming. He explains, “We plant seeds in the soil at home, but when I learned that you didn’t need soil, and the plants can even grow faster and healthier, that was super exciting. Plus, no weeding—that was a bonus!”

The course’s focus on practical skills left a lasting impression on Timberly. She now envisions using her newfound knowledge to pursue a future career as an Agronomist, as she aptly summarizes her takeaway, “No farmers, no food, no future!”

Together, Timberly and Tim have a message for other young people:

“Don’t be afraid to try something new! Pursuing your interests can lead to amazing discoveries and experiences. It’s okay if you don’t know everything at first—that’s part of the fun. The key is to stay curious, work hard, and never give up. Every skill you learn can help you grow and open doors you didn’t even know existed.”

With a shared love for learning and a commitment to exploring their passions, Timberly and Tim Morley prove that curiosity, when nurtured, can inspire personal growth and a brighter future for our communities.

Cooking Up Dreams and Building Bridges

Baselet Julien

CTI-HITS Student, North Campus Courses: Basic Culinary (Spring 2023) QuickBooks 1 (Summer 2023) Entrepreneurship 101: Doing Business in The Bahamas (Fall 2023) Current Course – Carpentry (Summer 2024)

In the bustling kitchens of the Pink Sands Resort on Harbour Island, Baselet Julien is not just cooking meals; he is using his gifts to build a better future for his family. As a local youth leader, husband, father, and dedicated student at The Centre for Training and Innovation’s Harbour Island Trade School (CTI-HITS), Baselet embraces every opportunity to increase his knowledge, skills, and community impact.

Guided by his passion for learning and a vision that stretches well beyond the kitchen, Baselet recently graduated from three diverse CTI-HITS courses: Basic Culinary, QuickBooks 1, and Entrepreneurship 101, and is currently enrolled in Introduction to Carpentry.

Each course has served as a stepping stone toward his ultimate goal of building a business that connects Haiti and The Bahamas through a rich cultural exchange, tourism, trade, and goodwill. Inspired by both nations' shared history and heritage, Baselet dreams of one day launching a vibrant marketplace that celebrates and showcases Haitian and Bahamian cuisine, art, and craftsmanship.

Balancing his studies with his roles as a youth leader and a devoted family man has been no easy feat, but with

his wife's unwavering support, Baselet has found the strength and tenacity to take it all on.

CTI’s courses have imparted more than just technical skills. Each course has enriched Baselet’s professional and personal life. “I enrolled in a variety of courses at CTI-HITS driven by my passion for learning and personal growth,” he reflects. “The biggest lesson I've learned is how important good communication and leadership are for building community,” he says.

Baselet embodies the spirit of resilience, perseverance, and ambition. He envisions a future where his family can thrive and contribute to building the business. He foresees his daughters growing up inspired by his journey and understanding the value of education and hard work. Within five years, he hopes to launch his business venture and build a cultural bridge between Haiti and The Bahamas while providing new economic opportunities for his family and local community.

ELEVATING TOGETHER

From Creating to Building…for All

Elevate Together

el·e·vate (ˈeləˌvāt): verb

1. to raise or lift up to a higher position

2. the hope of OEF for all Eleutherans

One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) and the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) have grown into two of the most impactful nonprofits in The Bahamas and the region, championing lasting change. As OEF celebrates 13 years and CTI marks its 8th, we find ourselves evolving in pursuit of our "Shared Vision," just as the island of Eleuthera continues to transform. Guided by our mission to strengthen and connect communities and empower people by “Elevating Together," we remain committed to addressing the island's changing needs through education, economic development, environmental stewardship, health improvements, and heritage.

As we embark on a new year, we are excited to share our strategic vision, and we invite you to join us in making a lasting impact.

Elevating Together to Impact the Economy

OEF’s Commitment to Food Security

Food security in The Bahamas is a growing concern, as the nation heavily relies on importing over 90% of its food. This dependency makes the country vulnerable to global supply chain disruptions, price fluctuations and quality control concerns. In Eleuthera, this challenge is compounded by limited agricultural infrastructure, which constrains local food production.

OEF and CTI have made significant progress in boosting food security on Eleuthera by investing in community agriculture, training farmers, and

promoting innovative farming practices. The Oasis Grow House (OGH) is the centerpiece of The Farm at CTI—a 1.1-acre hydroponic cooling house, the first of its kind in The Bahamas. Fully computerized, solar-powered, and hurricane-resistant, it features an automated retractable roof and wall system, advancing sustainable farming in the country.

Since launching the OGH in 2022, our farm now supplies fresh, nutritious produce to over 30 stores, hotels and restaurants across Eleuthera and Harbour Island. By providing affordable, high-quality food with a longer shelf life, we aim to improve health outcomes while supporting communities and local businesses. We also regularly donate greens to underserved communities, making healthy choices accessible to all. In the coming year we plan to strengthen our crop production efforts to help meet the local demand.

Additionally, our signature "We' Farmers Market" also brings together local farmers, artisans, and entrepreneurs each month, promoting “buying local” and strengthening community support for Eleuthera's growers and small businesses.

The Regenerative Food Forest

OEF and CTI plan to invest further by establishing a 1.0-acre Regenerative Food Forest. This space will be dedicated to exploring advanced strategies for syntropic farming, soil creation and enrichment, further cementing Eleuthera’s role in advancing regenerative agriculture. This regenerative agriculture model offers an invaluable opportunity to educate farmers in new, sustainable farming techniques, promoting soil health, resource efficiency, and climate resilience. Additionally, this innovate approach strengthens the island as a hub for agricultural tourism, drawing visitors interested in eco-friendly farming and sustainability practices in The Bahamas.

The Launch of CTI’s Food Hub

Due to a lack of local food processing infrastructure, farmers face challenges in preserving and adding value to their produce, leading to higher food insecurity. Investing in this sector is essential to reducing post-harvest losses, extending shelf life, and boosting the competitiveness of local goods in both domestic and export markets.

To address this, fundraising is underway for a multipurpose Food Hub featuring training facilities and a state-of-the-art packaging and processing center. This initiative will strengthen the local food production industry, improve food security, and create economic opportunities through job creation and entrepreneurship, building a more resilient food system for The Bahamas.

Strengthening The Bahamas’ Nonprofit Sector

Recent crises, like Hurricane Dorian and the COVID-19 pandemic, have revealed deep inequalities in The Bahamas, hitting vulnerable populations the hardest. While civil society has been vital in responding to these challenges, the sector remains underfunded and under-resourced, especially during disasters.

To empower Bahamian nonprofits to drive sustainable social change, OEF is launching the Social Good Accelerator (SGA). The SGA will strengthen nonprofits by enhancing operational efficiency, strategic planning, and crisis response. Through vital training, resources, and fiscal sponsorship, local nonprofits and social enterprises will be better equipped to focus on their missions and expand their impact, especially in addressing climate change and inequality.

Empowering Communities Through Micro Grants & Scholarships

The Community Grants Program empowers the work of local organizations and grassroots initiatives dedicated to improving their communities. This program provides financial support, tertiary scholarships, technical assistance, and capacitybuilding opportunities. Through our Cotton Bay Fund (CBF) and micro-grants program, we award grants to local organizations to advance projects that align with key development goals such as economic sustainability, environmental stewardship, education, health, and heritage preservation.

Key Economy Goals and Objectives:

Continued refinement of the OGH operations

• Establishment of a 1.0-acre Regenerative Food Forest

Fundraising for the Food Hub processing and packaging facility

Provision of funding for local community grants and scholarships through our micro-grant program and the Cotton Bay Fund

Building capacity, growth and impact in the nonprofit sector through OEF’s Social Good Accelerator

Elevating Together to Impact Education

OEF will further its commitment to enhancing and increasing access to education through CTI’s programs and training resources. First launched in 2016, CTI continues to expand and facilitate the growing training and labour force needs defined by Eleuthera’s development renaissance and evolving economy.

Learn and Earn Program and CTI-HITS

CTI’s first and signature Learn and Earn Program was launched at the Rock Sound campus in 2016 to provide an alternate employment pathway for South Eleuthera youth during an economic downturn. This robust program remains actively subscribed, and since then, CTI’s training footprint has expanded significantly to encompass the Harbour Island Trade School (CTI-HITS).

As a satellite school, CTI-HITS serves students from North Eleuthera’s neighboring settlements and islands, including Harbour Island and Spanish Wells. To date, more than 500 students have been educated courtesy of CTI’s nationally accredited training courses and in-demand, skills-based workshops. Both the signature Learn and Earn program in the South and the CTI-HITS programs in the North continue to evolve and cater to the specific training needs of the students based in these differing areas and economies.

The next strategic moves in CTI’s institutional growth and educational programming will involve revamping the Learn and Earn program in the South and expanding both physical training locations in Rock Sound and North Eleuthera. These progressive developments will increase our student training capacity, expand our curricula, and promote three pathways for student advancement through increased employability, access to entrepreneurial training, and industry exposure, which can include study abroad opportunities.

CTI-North Campus

In North Eleuthera, a 4,000 sq/ft building near the Three Island Dock has been secured for use as a training center and the home base of CTI-HITS. External and internal improvements and furnishings are estimated at $590,000. Once completed, this facility will serve as the school’s Northern Campus and house all construction and trade-related programs while providing student support facilities and administrative offices.

Hospitality and Events Pavilion

The proposed Hospitality and Events Pavilion at CTI’s Rock Sound campus is another significant development slated to increase the availability of skilled professionals and elevate hospitality and event management on Eleuthera. The construction of a $1.2 million, 2,700 sq/ft state-of-the-art training facility will provide students with in-demand skills and real-world experience to excel in hospitality, culinary arts, and event management. This Pavilion will also be used to attract and host large-scale cultural and performing arts activities, weddings, conferences, and special events to bolster South Eleuthera’s economy and tourism product.

Entrepreneurship Training Expansion

Entrepreneurship in The Bahamas, including Eleuthera, has grown significantly in recent years. Between 2017 and 2020, there was nearly a 60% increase in the number of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the country, reflecting an increasing need for business development skills and ongoing entrepreneurship training.

OEF and CTI continue to train, nurture and increase Eleuthera’s network of entrepreneurs through various

training opportunities designed to benefit SMEs. To accelerate this mission, we are instituting targeted programs and initiatives to empower entrepreneurs and create an enabling environment for their businesses to thrive. Through our partnerships with organizations such as the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) of The Bahamas and Wake Forest University’s School of Entrepreneurship, we are providing world-class training to some of the island’s most promising and enterprising young entrepreneurs.

Learn to Swim Program

Imagine living in a country surrounded by stunning blue waters but not knowing how to swim. This is a reality for more than 90% of the Bahamian population, contributing to the nation having the fourth-highest rate of unintentional drownings globally. Even more alarming, when hurricanes strike with sea surges — as they frequently do—many citizens lack the skills needed to save their own lives. Additionally, countless Bahamians cannot benefit from or participate in Eleuthera’s Blue Economy without the ability to swim.

OEF launched a free, six-week Learn to Swim program for children and adults in 2021. Now, four years in, we continue to work with U.S. partners and local volunteers to change the status quo and provide this crucial skill. Since inception, we’ve enrolled nearly 300 Eleutherans giving them life-saving swimming skills and a newfound confidence in and around water. We are now expanding this program into primary schools in South Eleuthera as part of a national initiative to ensure that children have access to swimming and drowning prevention education that can save their lives and open doors to future economic opportunities in our Blue Economy.

Key Education Goals & Objectives:

• The diversification of training modalities and the expansion of the curricula for CTI’s Rock Sound campus and Harbour Island Trade School

The expansion of Entrepreneurship training opportunities in North and South Eleuthera.

• The launch of fundraising efforts for a new 2,700 sq/ft Pavilion on the Rock Sound campus to provide facilities for professional hospitality and large-scale events training

• The launch of fundraising efforts for a Northern campus for CTI-HITS

The expansion of OEF’s Learn to Swim program as a pilot program in local schools.

Elevating Together to Impact the Environment

A shared desire to protect Eleuthera’s pristine beauty and preserve its natural resources for future generations was the impetus for the formation of OEF in 2012. Protecting, caring for, and promoting the sustainable use of Eleuthera's world-renowned natural resources remains a high priority.

Blue Economy Training

In 2025, OEF and CTI will launch a Blue Economy Capacity Building Program on Eleuthera, working with local and international partners to strengthen the capabilities and knowledge of the workforce in the ocean economy through education, grants and advanced training. We will commence the first year of this initiative by facilitating an assessment of the sector's challenges and opportunities. From this, we will develop training opportunities to benefit Eleutherans and enhance industries within this sector.

Birdwatching Nature Trail on Campus

We are expanding our ecotourism offerings with an exciting birdwatching (avi-tourism) experience. This growing global trend has become a popular activity at our Rock Sound campus, especially in the winter months. Each season, birdwatchers from Nassau and the U.S. visit to catch a glimpse of the rare Kirtland’s Warbler, a near-endangered North American songbird, and other species that frequent Eleuthera throughout the changing seasons. Our 50-acre campus has become a prime sanctuary for this elusive species.

Starting in 2024, we are partnering with the American Bird Conservancy and other local partners on "The Bird’s Eye View" project, which will create nature trails and birdwatching stations on campus to promote conservation and education. This initiative will protect the Kirtland’s Warbler and other species. In collaboration with Antioch University, we will also embark on a project to propagate and plant Black Torch and White Sage—vital food sources and habitation for the Warbler. Together, we will boost biodiversity, raise awareness and increase conservation efforts.

Key Environment Goals & Objectives:

The development of Eleuthera’s Blue Economy and its training-related opportunities

Increased conservation efforts to strengthen Eleuthera’s bird species, build thriving ecohabitats, and improve plant propagation on campus and across Eleuthera

• The expansion of CTI’s avi-tourism, biodiversity, and education programs through the establishment of a new campus Birding & Nature Trail

Elevating Together For Improved Health and Wellness

Fortunately, in recent years Eleuthera’s healthcare services have expanded to offer a variety of public and private healthcare options. Many of the procedures and special services that used to require a trip to Nassau, including mammography and some routine lab testing, can now be obtained on the island. While OEF celebrates the expansion of healthcare services to family islands like Eleuthera, we are not naïve to the reality that many of the most chronic health issues remain endemic.

Working with Bahamas Wellness, a private clinic with three locations on Eleuthera, we are gearing up to launch an Eleuthera Wellness Initiative. This initiative will include regular health checks and screenings, nutrition education and meal planning, fitness and exercise activities, and backyard farming lessons for locals.

In addition, OEF will continue to work with our longterm partners at Emory University and Clemson University to explore how best we can provide support services to Eleuthera’s most vulnerable populations –including the elderly, shut-ins, and those chronically ill or adverse to seeking medical attention. OEF has a partnership with Emory University’s Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing and Clemson University that brings cohorts of students to Eleuthera each year. These service-based programs provide support to local clinics, public health, and other agencies while also providing educational study abroad and cultural immersion opportunities for students.

Farmer’s Table – Farm to Table Restaurant

Our vision is to create a healthier community by making fresh, locally grown foods the cornerstone

of our diet. Through Farmer’s Table, our social enterprise restaurant, we are tackling the rise of noncommunicable diseases by offering wholesome, farmto-table meals that nourish the body while supporting local farmers. It also serves as a marketplace for local produce like fresh eggs, pineapples, and handcrafted pepper sauces.

Farmer’s Table promotes sustainable, plant-based eating, offering a healthy alternative to the typical high-fat, starch-heavy diet. It also provides hands-on training for CTI’s culinary and apprenticeship program. Upcoming workshops and cooking demos will teach families how to prepare nutritious meals using farmfresh ingredients to improve community health.

By supporting the Farmer’s Table restaurant, Eleutherans and visitors to the island are fueling a movement that puts health and wellness at the heart of our community.

Road Safety Campaign

Traffic fatalities and accidents have become an alarming issue on Eleuthera, with lives lost and families forever changed by preventable tragedies. Currently, speeding, distracted driving, and unsafe road conditions are major contributors to the rising number of accidents and fatalities on our island.

In response to this growing concern, we are launching a comprehensive road safety campaign to promote safe driving habits and create a culture of caution and responsibility on Eleuthera’s roads. Through education, community outreach, and partnerships with local authorities, we are committing to improving awareness of road safety to reduce traffic accidents, protect lives, and foster safer communities.

Key Health Goals & Objectives:

Increased collaboration with Bahamian and international health partners to pioneer impactful local health and wellness initiatives

• The advancement of community health through education, training, and ongoing access to healthy dining options

The launch of an island-wide road safety campaign with local partners to save lives and reduce traffic accidents

Elevating Together to Impact Heritage

Cultural Immersion & Educational Experiences

Lastly, OEF and CTI remain committed to hosting a wide range of university, local and international civic and church groups that travel to Eleuthera for retreat, study and service each year. Our long-term partnerships with Emory University and Clemson University, in particular, have resulted in more than 1,000 students and faculty visiting the island over the years. These service-based trips have provided valuable intellectual and cultural exchanges, thousands of volunteer hours, and an injection of well over $1,000,000 into Eleuthera’s economy.

Our Foundation believes that cultural and educational immersion experiences create meaningful connections between The Bahamas and the world. By continuing to support universities and international groups, we aim to provide transformative opportunities for students and professionals to learn about and engage with Bahamian culture, heritage, and traditions.

Eleuthera’s

Annual Food and Craft Festival

Moreover, in partnership with the Ministry of Tourism, we continue to host Eleuthera’s annual Food and Craft

Festival with the goal of becoming a frequent venue for similar cultural festivals and events. This annual celebration places local artisans, food vendors, and cultural ambassadors at the forefront, showcasing the unique craft, artwork, products, cuisine, and creativity of Eleuthera’s artisans and entrepreneurs.

Key Heritage Goals & Objectives:

The expansion of programs, partnerships, and opportunities for universities and international and local groups to engage in community service-based trips and cultural immersion experiences on Eleuthera

The cultivation of partnerships to boost Eleuthera’s Orange Economy and increase local cultural festivals such as The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism’s Annual Food and Craft Festival

In Conclusion

Since our inception, OEF and CTI have been committed to delivering innovative, sustainabilitydriven projects and programs with a clear and singular focus: to elevate and empower Eleuthera and its residents. We believe that building resilient communities is the cornerstone of future development, ensuring that the people of Eleuthera and The Bahamas can adapt, thrive, and prosper in an ever-changing world. Through experiential learning and collaboration, we have demonstrated that the most effective way to achieve long-term community development is by working together and joining forces with our partners, donors, neighbors, and all who share our vision of a resilient and prosperous Bahamas. We invite you to support our mission and join us as we continue to build stronger, more resilient communities for the future development and elevation of Eleuthera and The Bahamas…together.

BUILDING FOR THE FUTURE

Fundraising Goals & Major Projects

Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) Learn and Earn Scholarship Program

Join us on a journey of transformative impact by supporting our programs and projects. Your generosity fuels our sustainable development mission, igniting real change within our communities that aligns with achieving our nation’s larger development goals. Every donation is an investment in building a stronger, more inclusive society – one where opportunities flourish, potential is unlocked, and the trajectory of our island and nation’s future is elevated.

Your

Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI-HITS) Student Training Centre (Gregory Higgs Building)

Construction and buildout of Food Processing Unit, Packaging Facility, Plant Tissue Culture and Seedling Lab, and Classroom Space.

$1.2M

600 Gifts of $2,000

Focus: Construction and buildout of facility | Outfitting of Pavillion with furniture, fixtures & equipment (FFE) for training programs.

600 Gifts of $2,000

Your valuable contribution will equip aspiring hospitality and culinary students to excel in Eleuthera’s growing serviceoriented industries. It will also provide a venue to showcase cultural events that develop Eleuthera’s youth and orange economy.

Your partnership will establish a much-needed food processing facility and plant tissue culture lab to help build a local food supply chain and provide farmers with high-quality, disease-resistant seedlings for increased food production Fundraising Goal: $1.5 Collective Gift Activation: 300 Gifts of $5,000

Focus: Construction of sustainable, hurricane resilient student housing & transitional housing facilities.

Help us to achieve affordable, sustainable campus housing for visiting schools, university groups, and volunteers. We envision expanding into a regional training institute that can accommodate and house large groups, and your help is vital.

Golf Cart Access will be used for:

Disabled Guests: Help us to transport guests with disabilities.

Ease of Transfer: Help us to provide safe transport of heavy goods, supplies and laundry on campus for Housekeeping and general staff.

Security/Surveillance: Help us to monitor and patrol our large campus and respond swiftly to needs.

Focus:

The Feed & Seed Food Hub

The Hospitality & Events Training Pavilion

Multipurpose Campus Housing

THE ANNUAL FUND OF ONE ELEUTHERA

We are incredibly grateful for the 257 donors (who made a total of 540 gifts) and came together to support the work of One Eleuthera Foundation, Center for Training and Innovation and other partner organizations for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024.

FRIENDS OF ELEUTHERA ISLE OF FREEDOM CIRCLE

$100,000+

The Friends of Eleuthera is a lifetime recognition group for all donors who have given over $100,000 cumulatively in support of OEF, CTI and other partners. We are so grateful for this group, who have made contributions of magnitude to advance our work and provide stability to our programs and operations.

FRIENDS OF ELEUTHERA

Cumulative of $100,000+

Anonymous

Rick and Lisa Anderson

Joan Barrett and Christopher Mahoney

Binnacle Advisors Limited

Claneil Foundation

Cotton Bay Fund for South Eleuthera

Donner Foundation

Fidelity Charitable Fund

James Findlay

Marjie Findlay and Geoffrey Freeman

GEF SGP Bahamas

GlobalGiving

Stephen and Mary Graves

JAB Investments Ltd

Hathaway Jade

Barbara Jordan

Louise and Gunnar Klarr

Robert and Jennifer McNeil

Sand Dollar Fund

Schwab Charitab le Fund

Betsy Searle and Mike Branham

Marion “Scotty” Searle

Sally Searle

Susan G Komen Foundation

Brent and Robin Symonette

Templeton World Charity Foundation

The Boston Foundation

The Sallingsund Bridge Foudnation

The TK Foundation

Tricord Foundation

Anonymous

Binnacle Advisors Limited

Fidelity Charitable

Marjie Findlay and Geoffrey Freeman

Schwab Charitable Fund

Templeton World Charity Foundation

LIGHTHOUSE BEACH CIRCLE

$25,000-$99,999

Rick and Lisa Anderson

Antony and Angela Beck

Claneil Foundation

Mark and Megan Dowley Hathaway Jade

Barbara Jordan

Lombard Odier

Robert and Jennifer McNeil

Clarke and Mary Ohrstrom

Marion “Scotty” Searle Tribune242

GLASS WINDOW BRIDGE CIRCLE

$10,000-$24,999

American Bird Conservancy

Associazione Italia-Bahamas Onlus

Bahamas Striping Group of Companies

Caroline Barber

Joan Barrett and Christopher Mahoney

Community Foundation of Boulder County

Jaime Frankfurt

The Gildea Foundation

Milan Hasecic

CUPID’S CAY CIRCLE

$1,000-$4,999

Corrine Abraham

MIchael and Eva Anderson

Anonymous

Anonymous

Anonymous

Rob and Sally Baird

BDR Investments

Darico Higgs

Doug and Katie Jordan

Fred and Winkie King

Gary Poirrier

RBC Capital Markets

Reise Family Foundation

REMINC

Mark and Diane Simmons

Sociable Weaver Foundation

(Augusta and Gill Holland, Jr.)

Dirk and Caroline Van de Put

PREACHER’S CAVE CIRCLE

$5,000-$9,999

Mary Celeste Beall

Theodore Beringer

Sameer and Tricia Bhatti

Community Foundation of Western North Carolina - Day and Elaine Shields

Nancy Dunlap and John D

Johns

Benjamin Freeman

Lane and Anne Glaze

Cassie and Charles Kelley

J.S. Johnson & Company Ltd

Clifford Johnson

Michael and Samantha Jordan

Lenexa (KS) Rotary Foundation

Leon Levy Foundation

Marie Fauth Charitable Trust

Gretchen and Peter Menzies

Theresa Mersky

Nina Peyton

Kerry Pryor

Betsy Searle and Mike Branham

Donald Soffer and Michele King

John and Stephanie Stenberg

Chris Suarez

Islay Symonette

Stephen and Alessandra

Uihlein

Gustav Wellin

Rolf Schuermann

Anton and Hope Sealey

Jill and Chris Shelnut

Keyron Smith

Peter and Judith Stanton

Stills Point Charitable Fund

Charles Walbridge

Ron and Lisa Walker

Lynn Walton

Susan Walton

Charles and Charmayne Bernhardt

Cobelen Bisson

Ed and Kalita Blessing

Marina Carlson

Brian Cates

John and Tanya Crone

Marion Currow

Paul and Kristen Davidson

Bob and Lynn Dobson

Charles & Gayle Eaves

Barbara Erskine

Jennifer Freeman

Samuel and Stacy Freeman

Brenda Glaze

Glen Mar Church

James and Georgia

Gleason

George and Karen Gowen

Emily Gowen

Alexandra Graubert

Stephen and Mary Graves

Greater Atlanta Water

Safety Alliance

David and Alice Hageman

Tim and Selima Hauber

Shaun and Sandra

Ingraham

Insurance Management

Roy Jackson

Mark Jennings

John Wesley UMC

Wills Jordan

William and Priscilla

Kennedy

Alan Kornberg and Harold Koda

Michael Kusiak

Bill and Janice Lane

Mark Manifould

Holmes Merritt

Julian and Brooke Metcalfe

Wesley Mollno

Susy and Gregg Polzin

Gina Pontello

Chris Prapha

Nathanial and Marysia

Reeves

Carolyn Briscoe

Catherine Broderick

David and Cindy Bryant

John Burton

Erma Carey

Karen and Jerry Carter

Patrick Chen

Terry and Barbara Clark

Laura Cloutier

Caroline Coburn

Ben Watters

Wellin Family Fund

Constance O’Neil White

Kim and Marc Williams-

Pulfer

Emily Beck and Geoffrey Young

OCEAN HOLE CIRCLE

$500 - $999

Francis and Frances Abbott

Anonymous

Juan Bacardi

Adam and Kali Bebeau

Robin Bolton

Margaret Bonney

Robyn Curry

Abigail Day

Lyn and Norin Felton

Paul and Jo Gable

Joe Gallagher

Jerry and Paulette

Handegan

Jim Hassenstab

Marco’s Pizza (Aetos

Holdings Ltd)

Tom and Barb Martin

Thomas and Kristyna Meyer

J Roger and Meda Morrison

Yolanda Pawar

Zoe Perkins

John and Gretchen Schuler

Mario Smith

Cynthia Trickey

QUEEN’S BATH CIRCLE up to $499

Rahul Abhyankar

Jane Abrams

Michelle Anderson

Anonymous

Austin Balser

Gerald Bamman

Lehn Benjamin

Lyn Boudolf

Donald Lewis

Jesse Lipson

Brian Major

Virginia and Mark McBride

Shawna McCartney

Deborah McDermott

Tyler and Ale McNeil

Stephen and Patricia Meyer

Jessica Miller

Susannah Miller

Grace and Preston Cole

Chris and Katie Conley

Mikel Cook

Ben and Rose Cox

Lisa Davenport

Lauren Day

Annie Deboer

James and Linda Devereaux

Chip and Debby Dewing

Carlotta & Ralph Di Fiore

Thomas and Nancy

Dinwiddie

Bill Dowler

Ross and Jess Economy

Kim and John Erickson

Face in Water

Patti Fakunding

Margie and Andrew Farquhar

Joan Farrell

Kristy Favors

Nancy and Timothy Fohl

Frank Gerrity Charitable

Trust

Cecily Gallagher

Bryan Galloway

Gary and Jody Gaulin

Vincent Gemma

Ilka Higgs

William and Nina Horner

Muriel Htut

Tim Ingraham

Kelley Don Jenkins

Heidi Johnson

Jeffrey Johnson

Joey and Chong Jordan

Stephen and Nancy Jusick

Carolyn and Deryl Keese

Pat and Bonnie Kelley

Jason and Jennifer Kelly

Laura-Allen Kerlin

James and Alexandra

Kingery

Alisa and Peter Kuhn

Janice Lane

Nick LeBaron

Maribeth Moody

Avis Munroe

Mindy Myers-Lage

Kimberly Naylor

Network for Good

Laura Paine

Anita Parker

Mitzi Patin

Juanita Pinder

Penney Rahm

Helen M Rodgers

Alexandra Rome

Catherine and Marty Ryan

Peter and Susan Salis

Melissa Sellars

Bob and Lyn Sheffield

Ryan and Kyrsten Spurrier

John and Pamela Spurrier

Robert and Marian Stillwell

Elizabeth Stone

Jad and Erin Taylor

Regi and Yvonne Thackston

Maisie Thompson

Craig and Nancy Tompkins

Josh Torn

Winslow and Elizabeth

Tuttle

Kentisha Ward

Deborah Waterman

Rex and Cindy Waters

Jeff Weicksel

Tina Williams

Craig and Lucille Wingate

John and Robyn Witschey

Meg Epler Wood

DONOR SPOTLIGHT

The William H. Donner Foundation was established in 1962 and traces its roots to the International Cancer Research Foundation, established by William Henry Donner (1864-1953) following the 1929 death of his son, Joseph, from lung cancer. Donner supported pioneering medical research, including that of Nobel Prize-winner Dr. Ernest O. Lawrence at the Donner Laboratory, University of California, Berkeley.

Following Donner’s death and a period of reorganization, Donner’s grandchildren assumed leadership of the William H. Donner Foundation. Headquartered in New York, the Foundation concentrates on funding such areas as Canadian Studies in the United States, the interrelationship of food policy, nutrition, and preventive healthcare, and developing American Indian leadership and institutions; the foundation then developed a focus on policy research. We are most grateful to Anita Winsor, William Edwards, and the Donner family for their loyal support of the Centre for Training and Innovation’s Harbour Island Trade School (CTI-HITS). Every year, their generous annual donations enable dozens of students in North Eleuthera to pursue their education and training without leaving their families or beloved island home.

Reise Family Foundation

The Reise Family Foundation is a Canada-based private charitable foundation established by Leo and Geraldine and their three sons, Leo, Charles, and Norman. Together, they formalized the family’s philanthropic efforts to continue the Reise family legacy of giving and caring for perpetuity. Leo and Geraldine’s generosity began decades ago when they supported major initiatives within their local community and the not-forprofit sectors of education, health, sports, and the arts.

Today, that same spirit of caring is extended through the foundation’s support of the Centre for Training and Innovation’s Harbour Island Trade School (CTIHITS). This giving initiative, led by Dawn Reise-Ward the granddaughter of Leo and Geraldine, aims to uplift Bahamian youth by providing vocational scholarships and a bridge to hope. We are grateful to Dawn ReiseWard and the Reise family for their kind support. Dawn has lived on Harbour Island for twelve years, where she owns and operates Valentine’s Dive Center.

WAYS TO GIVE

Making a gift to the One Eleuthera Foundation contributes to short and long term initiatives that are building the livelihoods of the people of Eleuthera and establishes models that can be replicated to do the same for people across The Bahamas and the region. Making a gift of any amount is easy and can be done by check, direct deposit, wire transfer or online:

U.S. donors are able to make taxdeductible donations through our sister entity, One Eleuthera Foundation of the U.S., a 501(c)3 incorporated in the U.S.

• Checks should be made payable to “One Eleuthera Foundation of the U.S." and mailed to:

One Eleuthera Foundation of the U.S. c/o Lane Glaze P.O. Box 1302 Clemson, SC 29633, USA

• For credit/debit card go to www.oneeleuthera.org/donate

• For wire and in-kind gifting instructions and other inquiries, contact: Rev. Lane Glaze, President, OEF-US E: laneglaze@oneeleuthera.org C: 864.207.9135

Bahamian donors can make gifts electronically or in person.

• Checks should be made payable to “One Eleuthera Foundation“ and can be dropped off at our office in Rock Sound. One Eleuthera Foundation Queen’s Highway and Mingo Drive Rock Sound, Eleuthera, The Bahamas

• For credit/debit card go to www.oneeleuthera.org/donate

• For electronic bank transfer intructions and other inquiries, contact development@oneeleuthera.org

FUNDRAISING MILESTONES

The Tribune Newspaper has proven that gifts-inkind can also help elevate the work and impact of the nonprofit sector. For two years, the newspaper has allowed thought leaders within One Eleuthera Foundation to contribute OP-ED articles covering various subjects related to holistic community development, agriculture, health, education, culture, and the nonprofit sector.

Our symbiotic partnership has provided fresh content and perspectives, while the exposure gained from contributing to this reputable and respected daily newspaper has been substantial. We are elated by this editorial gift with an estimated value of nearly $20,000 per year and for the platform to increase awareness of our work and impact in building a better Eleuthera and Bahamas.

Since our launch in 2012, we have been blessed to connect with a community of friends, partners and supporters from The Bahamas and around the world who have embraced our visionary mission to create a sustainable and inclusive future for the people and island we serve.

Your generous contributions - both large and small, one-time and recurring - support a growing portfolio of programs and initiatives that are systematically and radically changing the landscape and trajectory of Eleuthera and The Bahamas for the better. Your donations are not just creating impressive sustainable development achievements around food security, community health and education. More importantly, they are uplifting people and empowering communities with the skills and resources to be resilient and self-sufficient in the face of challenging times.

OUR FINANCIALS

One Eleuthera Foundation and the Centre for Training and Innovation seek to be transparent in our financial operations by making our audited Financial Statements publicly available. To view, please visit: https://oneeleuthera.org/oef-financials/

One Eleuthera Foundation - Board of Directors

Sameer Bhatti, Director

Sameer Bhatti also serves on our OEF-US Board. See page 33 for his bio.

Diane Bowe-Pindling, Director

Diane, a Chartered Accountant, is a proud graduate of Preston H. Albury High and is passionate about Eleuthera and its unrealized possibilities. She currently serves as a consultant to a Family Office and project manager for The TK Foundation’s Disaster Relief Fund. She is a member of The Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants, the Chartered Institute of Arbitrators, The Links Incorporated, a Director of the Public Hospitals Authority Foundation, and an officer of the 23rd Company Boys’ Brigade.

Cecil Ferguson, Director

Cecil is a veteran Compliance, AntiMoney Laundering, Trust and Real Estate Professional, having spent over thirty years in the financial services sector of The Bahamas, with numerous, reputable organizations. He holds several degrees from the University of The Bahamas, Taylor University, and Nova Southeastern University. Cecil served as a Foreign Service Officer to the US and United Nations.

Marjie Findlay, Director

In 2012, Marjie worked closely with Tom Burns and Shaun Ingraham to launch OEF.

She is the President of a nonprofit college scholarship organization serving Native Americans and has served as a board member and Chair of the Board for the Claneil Foundation. Along with her extended family, Marjie has been coming to South Eleuthera for over 50 years.

Shaun Ingraham, Director

Shaun Ingraham is the visionary cofounder of OEF and CTI and past President of OEF. Over the past 25 years, he has led disaster relief and economic and social development efforts for various national, regional and international development organizations worldwide. A native of Eleuthera, Shaun has won numerous awards for his work, including a Cacique Award, and the Community Impact Award from Emory University.

Kim Williams-Pulfer, Secretary

Dr. Kim Williams-Pulfer also serves on our OEF-US Board. See page 33 for her bio.

Clifford Johnson, Treasurer

Clifford has long been a key figure in The Bahamas’ public accounting profession, having held multiple leadership positions at Pricewaterhouse Coopers. He has also served as a member of The Gaming Board from 1992-1995, the Securities Commission of The Bahamas from 1999-2001 and the Small Business Development Centre (Access Accelerator) from 2018-2021. He is also a member of the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants and Chairman of the Royal Bahamas Police Force Dependants’ Trust.

Theo Neilly, Director

Theo is a long-time public servant, having spent most of the last two decades serving his community and country in local government and civil aviation. Later, Theo was elected a Member of Parliament, and most recently he has served as Consul General for The Bahamas in Washington, DC. A native of South Eleuthera, Theo is a Preston H. Albury High School graduate and later earned his Bachelor’s degree from Palm Beach Atlantic University and MBA from University of Liverpool (UK).

Anton Sealey, Director

Anton D. J. Sealey is a veteran of The Insurance industry of The Bahamas and now serves as Vice President and Director for Insurance Management (Bahamas) Ltd. In addition, Anton is the President of The Bahamas Football Association and serves in several capacities with both the regional governing body for football, The Confederation of North, Central American and Caribbean Association Football (CONCACAF), as a member of the Finance Committee and the world governing body, The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) where he serves as a member of The Members Association Committee.

Keyron Smith, President & CEO

Keyron Smith is the President and CEO of OEF and CTI. He spent his formative years in Lower Bogue, Eleuthera before pursuing higher education abroad. Keyron holds a Masters in Governance and Public Policy from University of Manchester, UK., a Bachelor’s degree from University of The Bahamas (UB) and is also a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). He is the former Assistant Director of Grants and a Policy Fellow at UB and has been recognized with national leadership awards.

Mario Smith, Chair

With roots in Hatchet Bay, Eleuthera, Mario is the Chief Compliance Officer for RBC Dominion Securities Global Limited (Caribbean) and Regional ComplianceCaribbean. He holds degrees from Acadia University, Canada and the University of Manchester, UK. Mario also serves as a Director of CTI, as a member of the Board of Rotary Bahamas Disaster Relief and is a Past Assistant Governor for Rotary District 7020.

One Eleuthera Foundation - US Board of Directors

Corrine Abraham, Director

A nurse educator at Emory University since 1985, Corrine has coordinated student immersion experiences in Eleuthera since 2005. Corrine and her colleagues work collaboratively with the Ministry of Health and OEF to align goals and experiences with local needs. She has received funding for two Emory Global Field Scholars grants exploring strategies to improve chronic disease management, including breast cancer, diabetes and hypertension. She also holds a joint appointment with the Atlanta VA Health Care System, where she coordinates efforts to improve the quality of care provided to veterans.

Rob Baird, Director

Former Chairman and CEO from Conco Cos., Rob holds degrees from University of Missouri-Columbia and Georgetown University. He is a big supporter of the arts in his hometown and has been an active member of the community on Eleuthera for the last few decades.

Sameer Bhatti, Treasurer

A native of New Providence, Sameer serves as the CEO for BTC after a ten-year stint with Comcast and more than thirty years in the industry. He holds degrees from Duke University, the University of Maryland, and the University of The Bahamas and has also completed training at both Harvard and Oxford. His wife, Tricia, is a Pediatric Pathologist at Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia and shares his commitment to sustainable philanthropy focused on the Caribbean and Africa.

Lynn Dobson, Director

A retired nurse educator, Lynn and her husband Bob have been traveling and serving on Eleuthera for more than 20 years. As a three-time cancer survivor, Lynn has worked closely with those on the island experiencing cancer and helped start the first support group for women going through breast cancer. Lynn has an undergraduate degree in nursing and a Masters in Nursing Education from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She was honored by her alma mater with the Distinguished Nursing Alumni Award and the Humanitarian Award.

Lane Glaze, President & Chair OEF-US

Lane first began traveling to Eleuthera in his capacity as an ordained United Methodist Campus Minister over 20 years ago. In 2016, he helped found One Eleuthera Foundation of the U.S. (OEF-US), a 501(c)3 based in the Carolinas. Since inception, OEF-US has assisted OEF by raising and granting more than $24 million to OEF and its partners. Formerly a CPA with Ernst & Young and COO of a private trust company, Lane also serves as a Professor of Practice in Nonprofit Leadership at Clemson University and Trustee for Spartanburg Methodist College.

Jeff Gowdy, Director

With degrees from the University of Virginia and Vanderbilt University, Jeff is the Director of Consulting and Business Development at Sustainserv.com which is devoted to developing sustainability strategies and programs. Jeff fell in love with Eleuthera and its people while serving as an intern on the island in the mid 2000s.

Kim Williams-Pulfer, Secretary

Kim Williams-Pulfer, Ph.D. is the principal consultant of KWP Research Strategies LLC, a research consulting firm focused on community development, the arts, public humanities, and nonprofit and philanthropic management. From 2023-2024 she was an American Council of Learned Scholars (ACLS) fellow. In 2021- 2022, she also served as an ACLS Leading Edge Fellow as Research and Evaluation Manager at The Hurston/ Wright Foundation. Dr. Williams-Pulfer holds a B.A. in Psychology from Taylor University, an M.A. in English from Butler University, a graduate certificate in Nonprofit Management from the Paul H. O’Neill School of Public and Environmental Affairs, and a Ph.D. in Philanthropic Studies with a minor in Caribbean Studies from the Indiana University Lilly Family School of Philanthropy.

Center for Training & Innovation - Board of Directors

Julian Carey, Director

Julian is a businessman and entrepreneur from Tarpum Bay, Eleuthera. He is the former President of the Eleuthera branch of the Rotary Club, where he has served as the Fellowship and Fundraising Chair since its inception. Julian is a devout community builder and operates the Tarpum Bay Shopping Center. An avid fisherman, Julian enjoys the great outdoors and organizes and hosts an annual fishing tournament in South Eleuthera, which promotes tourism on the island.

Reginald Eldon, Secretary

Dr. Reginald Eldon hails from The Current, Eleuthera and spent his career serving the Bahamas Conference of the Methodist Church in various roles including Youth Director, General Secretary and Dean of the Centre of Leadership. He later served as the Dean of Adult Education at Queen’s College in Nassau and as a Consultant for OEF. He is also a certified Grief Recovery Specialist and Spiritual Life Coach.

James Gomez, Treasurer

James has over 30 years working as a Chartered Accountant and Certified Insolvency and Restructuring Advisor and holds membership in numerous professional bodies, including the Bahamas Institute of Chartered Accountants, Association of Insolvency Restructuring Advisors, American Bankruptcy Institute and INSOL. James has substantial experience across several sectors, including public, financial services, tourism and leisure, and public tax policies. He is a proud descendant of Rock Sound, Eleuthera.

Gregory Higgs, Director

Over four decades ago, Gregory Higgs had the vision to start his own familyowned and operated construction business. Today, Higgs Construction is Harbour Island’s leading full-service construction company, delivering years of experience and an elevated standard of excellence and luxury to the industry. Gregory is an active member of his community. His interest is in uplifting youth, empowering people, and giving back to his community in meaningful ways that create lasting change.

Paul

Davidson

Shaun Ingraham, Chair

Shaun Ingraham also serves on our OEF Board. See page 32 for his bio.

DONOR SPOTLIGHT CONT'D

Bahamas Striping Group of Companies (BSGC) is a leader in quality road striping and paving solutions. BSGC is considered one of the fastest-growing companies in The Bahamas and emerged in 2010 out of the entrepreneurial startup of its then 23-year-old President and founder, Atario Mitchell. Today, the Group comprises several companies and continues to examine opportunities to diversify its investment portfolio in The Bahamas and the Caribbean.

Insurance Management (Bahamas) Limited (IMB) is a Bahamian-owned insurance company that has been serving communities across the archipelago since 1977. IMB offers a wide range of insurance products and services to protect lives, loved ones, property, valuables, and businesses. The company prides itself on providing excellent service and demonstrating honesty and integrity in every undertaking. As a good corporate citizen, Insurance Management generously supports important local causes and organizations.

Kim Williams-Pulfer, Director

Dr. Kim Williams-Pulfer also serves on our OEF-US Board. See page 33 for her bio.

Keyron Smith, President & CEO

Keyron Smith also serves on our OEF Board. See page 32 for his bio.

Mario Smith, Director

Mario Smith also serves on our OEF Board. See page 32 for his bio.

On the occasion of OEF’s 12th Anniversary in April, BSGC became the major title sponsor of OEF’s inaugural “Harvest Haven” fundraiser dinner. This event raises crucial funds to support and accelerate OEF’s mission to empower people and build resilient, self-sufficient communities. We are grateful for BSGC’s generous support and partnership.

In April of this year, IMB sponsored OEF’s inaugural “Harvest Haven” fundraiser dinner.

This annual gala event aims to raise crucial funds to support and accelerate OEF’s mission to empower people and build resilient, self-sufficient communities. We are grateful for their support.

Former Clemson University Student Volunteer & Donor

“The Bahamas, Eleuthera, and most of all, its people continue to leave an indelible footprint on my life. I believe the work that OEF and CTI are doing to improve people's lives through fresh foods, education, and more are incredibly important foundational pieces for empowering and improving the lives of the people. I'm excited by what has been achieved so far, the vision, and what comes next. I support financially to give back for everything I've gained from my experiences in Eleuthera and The Bahamas. After telling my now-wife, Kristen, about this incredible place, we were able to visit and tour CTI this year. The farming developments and farm-to-table restaurant blew us away, and we got to see the Learn to Swim community program in action.”

On behalf of the Board of Directors, Management and Staff of One Eleuthera Foundation and the Centre for Training and Innovation, we extend our heartfelt appreciation for the dedicated service and exceptional leadership you have both provided during your tenures as Chairman of OEF and CTI, respectively. With your roles now concluded, we reflect on the legacy of integrity, vision and excellence you have left within our organizations. Your passion, guidance, and unwavering stewardship have made a lasting impact on our mission and the communities we serve. Thank you for your remarkable contributions and for leading with both heart and purpose.

Paul & Kristen Davidson

Mario Smith OEF Chairman, 2020 - 2024

Shaun Ingraham CTI Chairman, 2016 - 2024

Meet our TEAM

In Loving Memory: Michael Singer

Michael Singer was a visionary, artist, and architect whose groundbreaking work in landscapes, architecture, and urban planning transcended traditional boundaries, harmonizing humanity with nature. Michael and his team at Michael Singer Studios produced One Eleuthera Foundation’s (OEF’s) “Shared Vision for South Eleuthera,” the research document and blueprint that has guided OEF’s development and work since inception.

In 2009, in response to the threat of disruptive largescale developments moving into the space, Michael and his team were invited to Eleuthera to research and formulate an alternate, sustainable plan that would benefit the people and the island.

In collaboration with Shaun Ingraham, Marjie Findlay, the Friends of Lighthouse Point, and a diverse group of local stakeholders, the team met with people across Eleuthera, listening intently to their hopes and dreams for the island’s future. From formal gatherings to casual conversations, similar themes echoed throughout the

community - a need for entrepreneurial opportunities, a focus on education and job training, a return to sustainable farming, and a shared desire for locally owned, small-scale development.

From this research, Michael and his team produced a comprehensive roadmap for Eleuthera’s economic, environmental, and social development rooted in the island’s rich heritage and guided by environmental sustainability and social equity principles. The “Shared Vision for South Eleuthera” became OEF’s manifesto and a blueprint for driving lasting change.

Michael remained a loyal friend and supporter of OEF until his passing on March 14th, 2024. We will be forever grateful for his enduring contributions and kind support.

CERCELIA THOMPSON