unvEILED
Discovering Eleuthera's hidden ecosystems and conservation efforts see pages 8 & 9
Welcome…
…to Around da Islands, our weekly supplement, free with Friday’s Tribune.
Tucked away within the coppice forest of South Eleuthera, a new nature trail is inviting residents and visitors alike to slow down, look closer, and experience a side of the island that often goes unnoticed. The Bird's Eye View Nature and Birding Trail, developed by the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) in Rock Sound, combines conservation, education and tourism in a single outdoor experience. The project looks well worth a visit.
We also followed US Ambassador to The Bahamas, Herschel Walker, as he spent part of his o!cial three-day visit to Grand Bahama inspiring the next generation of athletes and leaders at the Falcons Boys’ Club, where he shared how football helped propel him to greater heights through perseverance, discipline, and faith.
Our team also tagged along with the nation’s favourite radio station, 100 JAMZ, as the team packed its bags and headed south for an epic cultural invasion of Cat Island for Labour Day weekend.
This week we say a fond farewell to two of The Tribune’s long-standing feature writers, Alesha Cadet and Je arah Gibson, who are moving on to pastures new. Everyone here at The Tribune wishes them the very best in their new endeavours.
Every week, Around da Islands, having partnered with Grand Bahama 242, highlights news, features and developments from Grand Bahama and the Family Islands, o ering a broader national perspective beyond Nassau.
And don’t forget, this is your supplement too! Send us your story ideas, features and tips – we can’t run then them all, but we’re committed to strong, fair representation from across the islands.
So come along for the ride!
From all of us here at The Tribune – The People’s Paper.
This WEEK in Around da Islands - Bahamian News, Features & Culture
GRAND BAHAMA NEWS
Pg 4 — Cra ers Academy Workshop inspires new wave of Bahamian textile design
Pg 5 — Cra ers Academy Workshop inspires new wave of Bahamian textile design
Pg 6 — Brother and sister are spelling champs
Pg 7 — US students enjoy summer life in GB
ELEUTHERA FEATURES
Pgs 8 & 9 — A trail to Discovery in South Eleuthera
NEW PROVIDENCE FEATURES
Pg 11 — 100 JAMZ invades Cat Island for an unforgettable Labour Day weekend
Pg 12 — Island Brainwaves
Pg 13 — Reggae legends set to turn back the clock at reggae rewind
BERRY ISLAND NEWS
Pg 14 — Job fairs seeks local talent for Great Stirrup Cay
EXUMA FEATURES
Pg 15 — Building a legacy of hospitality: e Vaughan and Krystal story
Crafters Academy Workshop inspires new wave of Bahamian textile design
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
ARENEWED focus on creativity, culture, and craftsmanship took centre stage during the two-day Crafters Academy
‘Block n’ Roll’ Fabric Printing Workshop, an event designed to empower local artisans through hands-on learning and artistic exploration.
Held on Wednesday, June 3, and Thursday, June 4, the workshop introduced participants to the art of fabric block printing while encouraging them to develop designs inspired by Bahamian identity and heritage. The initiative is part of Crafters Academy’s ongoing mission to strengthen the local creative industry by providing practical skills training and opportunities for artistic growth.
PARTICIPANTS experimented with colours and patterns while printing on tea towels, canvas bags, and other materials.
The workshop was led by Lisa Codella, an accomplished artist and instructor with extensive experience in block printing and textile design. Participants learned the fundamentals of creating patterns, understanding colour relationships, tools
BEYOND learning a new craft, participants discovered the value of artistic experimentation and personal expression.
we can add to the mix.”
Throughout the two-day program, participants experimented with colours and patterns while printing on tea towels, canvas bags, and other materials. The process encouraged artistic expression and gave attendees the freedom to explore their own creative ideas.
For Ms Kaboub, the workshop represents the beginning of a larger vision. With
needed and applying artistic principles to fabric.
According to Fatima Zahra Kaboub, Chair of ArtLucaya and Crafters Academy, the programme refects the organisation’s commitment to helping artisans expand their skills while creating products that are uniquely Bahamian.
“One of the things we’re trying to do with Crafters Academy is use the ArtLucaya platform and what we learn from diferent artists in Grand Bahama,” Ms Kaboub explained. “This time we thought it would be really interesting to get into the fabric printing business.”
The workshop also highlighted the potential for Grand Bahama to
establish its own distinctive textile identity. Participants were encouraged to draw inspiration from local culture, landscapes, and traditions to create original patterns that refect the island's character.
“We have wonderful prints already coming out of Nassau and Andros,” Ms Kaboub said, referring to the work of Androsia and Bahamas Handprint. “But we thought that while there is already an ofering, there’s still room for Grand Bahama to have its own prints, to have its own identity that
a background in fashion, she hopes the skills being developed today can eventually lead to locally designed fabrics being incorporated into clothing and other products.
“My hope is to be able to make fabrics that we can use eventually in clothing and do something much more present in the clothing industry as well as crafts,” she said.
The results exceeded expectations.
“The result has been really surprising, and surprisingly good,” Ms Kaboub noted. “People who do it enjoy it because
it's really getting in touch with your creativity.”
Beyond learning a new craft, participants discovered the value of artistic experimentation and personal expression.
Vernetta Frith of Strawtacular Designs described the workshop as both enjoyable and valuable for artisans seeking to grow their craft.
“I am one of the many participants here at the ‘Block n’ Roll’ crafting class. It is always a pleasure and a great opportunity to come to these classes that they make available to us so that we can express our talent and learn how to enhance what we already know,” Ms Frith said.
Another participant, Lynn Adams, said the fabric printing workshop continues a tradition of quality training opportunities ofered through Crafters Academy.
“This is not my frst workshop of Crafters Academy I’ve attended.”
Ms Adams noted that she has participated in several previous programs, including classes focused on coasters, coconut bowls, and couture straw bags. “This is an addition to what I can branch of in to expand my small business.”
THE WORKSHOP also highlighted the potential for Grand Bahama to establish its own distinctive textile identity.
FATIMA ZAHRA KABOUB, Chair of ArtLucaya and Crafters Academy, said that the Crafters Academy “Block n’ Roll” Fabric Printing Workshop was designed to empower local artisans through hands-on learning and artistic exploration.
Photos: BARBARA WALKIN
ARTIST and Instructor Lisa Codella led the workshop.
Herschel Walker inspires youth during o cial three-day GB visit
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
FORMER NFL star and the current US Ambassador to The Bahamas, Herschel, Walker spent part of his ofcial three-day visit to Grand Bahama inspiring the next generation of athletes and leaders at the Falcons Boys’ Club on Tuesday, June 9, where he shared how football helped propel him to greater heights through perseverance, discipline, and faith.
Standing before the young, excited athletes, Ambassador Walker refected on the challenges he overcame on and of the feld. He encouraged the boys to stay focused on their goals and to trust in God’s guidance no matter what obstacles come their way.
“No matter what obstacle they face, God and faith will help them win the day,” Ambassador Walker told the boys.
The visit left a strong impression on the members of the Falcons Boys’ Club, who listened intently as the former football star and ambassador spoke about hard work, resilience, and believing in themselves.
Dania Farrington, whose son is a member of the Falcons Boys’ Club, said the visit was something she hoped her son would carry with him for years to come.
“To have someone of Ambassador Walker’s stature come and speak directly to our boys was truly special. I could see it in my son’s eyes; he was so excited. That kind of visit and words of encouragement is priceless.”
breathe so much life into a programme. It is incredibly rewarding to see these young builders get that kind
of world-class encouragement right before they step onto the travel stage.”
The Ambassador’s contribution and words of motivation come at a pivotal time for the club as two of its teams prepare for an important trip to Orlando, where they will represent Grand Bahama in competition.
In addition to the Falcons Boys’ Club, Ambassador Walker’s itinerary included visits to several key institutions and organisations across Grand Bahama. He made stops at Western Atlantic University School of Medicine (WAUSM),
the Ministry for Grand Bahama, The Grand Bahama Port Authority, and met with other community and business stakeholders.
His visit highlighted the strong ties between the United States and The Bahamas, while also emphasising the importance of youth development, education, and community partnership.
For the young athletes at Falcons Boys’ Club, the Ambassador’s message was clear: “With perseverance, faith, and determination, no challenge is too great to overcome.”
Darrin Rolle, Founder and President of Falcons Boys’ Club, expressed his gratitude for the Ambassador’s encouragement and support.
“This was an incredible and historic day for the Falcons Boys’ Club, having a former NFL star, Heisman Trophy winner, and current U.S. Ambassador like Herschel Walker take the time to visit the Champs Community Center in Freeport is an amazing milestone,” Mr Rolle said.
“For the young men on the basketball team, hearing from someone who has reached the absolute highest levels of both athletics and international diplomacy must have been an unforgettable experience. There is no doubt his words will stay with them as they lock in their focus and prepare to head out to Orlando from July 9 through the 16 to compete in a tournament.”
Mr Rolle added: “It is moments like this that
FORMER NFL star and the current U.S. Ambassador to The Bahamas, Herschel Walker, made a stop at the Champs Community Center, home of the Falcons Boys' Club, during a three-day visit to Grand Bahama.
FORMER NFL star and current U.S. Ambassador to The Bahamas, Herschel Walker, encouraged the boys to stay focused on their goals and trust in God’s guidance, no matter what obstacles come their way.
Photos: Falcons Boys' Club
Brother and sister are spelling champs
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
ABROTH-
ER-AND-SISTER team emerged as the standout performers at the annual Seniors’ Spelling Bee, held May 27 at Freeport Bible Church, with Angie Johnson capturing frst place and her brother, Richard Farrington, fnishing a close second.
Closing out the top fnishers was Zina Robins, who secured third place after the spirited contest that tested participants’ spelling skills, concentration and endurance.
Prize packages included a two-night stay at Castaways Resort, a $100 grocery certifcate, a packed snack/lunch, and a bottle
packed snack/lunch, and a bottle of apple cider.
The annual event, organised by the Cat Island Development Association of Grand Bahama, is one of the organisation’s signature community programmes.
This year’s competition featured 11 contestants competing through 18 rounds of increasingly difcult words, CIDA spokesperson Edith Gibson told Around da Islands.
winner for her outstanding performance.
of apple cider for the frst place winner; a $75 grocery certifcate, a special gift, a packed snack/lunch, and a bottle of apple cider for second place, and the third place winner was awarded a $50 grocery voucher, a special gift, a
Mrs Johnson, competing as contestant number eight, was congratulated by Chairperson Vernell Thurstonand received praise from attendees for her impressive performance.
Harriet “Baby” Johnson, who made history as the frst CIDA Spelling champion in 2015 when the contest started, was on hand to congratulate this year’s
The Bee is spearheaded by President Emily Strachan, Vice President Lorine Miller, Chairperson Vernell Thurston, and a dedicated team of committee members, judges, a pronouncer, lexicologist and scorekeepers.
Contestants were given a list of 100 study words in advance and were also challenged with confdential “unseen” words introduced near the end of the competition.
THIS year’s competition featured 11 contestants competing through 18 rounds. The contest was held on May 27 at Freeport Bible Church.
She explained to help ease pre-competition nerves; participants frst completed a warm-up round featuring simple words before advancing to more challenging selections.
According to organisers, the Seniors’ Spelling Bee continues to receive strong support from the community and is widely regarded as an enjoyable and educational event that brings seniors together in a spirit of friendly competition.
“Special mention must be made of Carla Rigby,
contestant 10, who is our most inspiring participant of the 2026 Spelling Bee,” Ms Gibson said. “This is her third time taking part in the competition and she just missed placing in the top three after misspelling “Ecclesiastes.”
Ms Ribgy fnished in fourth place.
She said, “CIDA’s ultimate aim is to connect the islands of The Bahamas by showcasing our seniors using the power of words to keep their minds young, active and alert.”
CAT Island Development Association (CIDA) of Grand Bahama Spelling Bee first, second, and third place winners Angie Johnson, Richard Farrington, and Zina Robins.
Photos: Courtesy of CIDA
ANGIE Johnson captured first place in the Cat Island Development Association (CIDA) of Grand Bahama 2026 Spelling Bee.
US students enjoy summer life in GB
By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@ barefootmarketing.net
WHEN more than 100
young visitors descended on the Sand Bar in Williams Town recently, the energy, laughter, music, local food and cold Bahamian beverages moving quickly got the attention of the Around da Islands team, and we began asking questions.
What had brought the group of American students to the island?
Beach is a private student travel company operating independently from any academic institution. It is part of the GradCity Travel LLC family of student travel brands that has been organising trips for more than 30 years.
The answer, Around da Islands found out, is an ongoing partnership between Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach (Club Fortuna) and an organised student travel programme called Breakaway Beach, which brings approximately 300 US students to Freeport annually.
Around da Islands spoke with Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach (Club Fortuna) General Manager Gianluca Nurchis who explained the all-inclusive resort serves as the home base for the students.
“It’s a programme that involves young students from the U.S. during their summer break from university,” Mr Nurchis said. “The hotel has been a partner for many years.”
He added: “The Bahamas is one of the
favourite destinations for these students.”
Mr Nurchis explained that the 300 students arrive divided into three separate groups of roughly 100, each staying for a week, Tuesday through Saturday, across three consecutive weeks during the summer.
“They travel to the island via ferry, with the entire experience coordinated from departure to return,” he said.
“The goal of Breakaway is to provide an unforgettable experience to the students in a paradisiac destination,” Mr Nurchis said. “The impact on the resort is excellent; we sell between 100 and 150 rooms for three weeks in a row. They also have two nights out per week in local businesses.”
According to its website, Breakaway
Over those three decades, the company has grown into one of the largest student travel operators in North America, taking thousands of travellers annually to destinations around the world. Its stated mission is to provide senior trips to graduating high school students of all backgrounds, and its Bahamas ofering is centred specifcally around Freeport and the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach property.
Packages ofered through Breakaway Beach typically include round-trip fights, ferry transportation, all-inclusive accommodations at Club Fortuna, excursions, organised events, and on-site staf support throughout the stay.
The company also requires parental consent forms, listed on its website at breakawaybeach.com, refecting its commitment to student safety and structured oversight. Trip leaders accompany all groups, and dedicated safety programmes are built into every itinerary.
STUDENTS are enjoying the entertainment night at
Club Fortuna.
Photo: Breakaway Beach
VIVA Wyndham Fortuna Beach (Club Fortuna) General Manager Gianluca Nurchis.
A Trail to DISCOVERY
CO
in South Eleuthera
By ALESHA CADET Tribune Features Reporter acadet@tribunemedia.net
TUCKED within the coppice forest of South Eleuthera, a new nature trail is inviting residents and visitors alike to slow down, look closer, and experience a side of the island that often goes unnoticed.
The Bird's Eye View Nature and Birding Trail, developed by the One Eleuthera Foundation (OEF) on the campus of the Centre for Training and Innovation (CTI) in Rock Sound, combines conservation, education and tourism in a single outdoor experience.
Stretching approximately 900 metres across six acres of forest, the trail ofers visitors the chance to explore native plant and bird life while learning about the island's unique ecosystems through a blend of traditional and digital interpretation.
For OEF, the project is a natural extension of its longstanding commitment to sustainable development across Eleuthera.
Petura Burrows, Communications Manager at OEF explained that environmental stewardship has always been closely linked to the organisation's broader mission, which includes education, economic development, community health and cultural preservation.
The concept was drawn from A Shared Vision for South Eleuthera, the document that helped shape OEF's formation in 2012. Following consultation with community stakeholders, scientists and environmental partners, the organisation identifed an opportunity to preserve a section of CTI's forested campus while creating a space that could serve both educational and tourism purposes.
Rather than dramatically altering the landscape, the project was designed to work with the environment already in place.
"From the outset, our vision was to create a minimally invasive space, cutting a trail that followed the natural terrain and including tools to help visitors explore and learn more about Eleuthera's natural environment," said Ms Burrows.
Along the route, visitors encounter interpretive signs, bird feeders, shaded rest areas, a bird blind
and QR-enabled learning stations. The trail also incorporates modern technology, allowing users to identify bird calls and access species information through their mobile devices while contributing observations to ongoing conservation research.
The educational component has already become one of the project's defning features.
Students from schools in South Eleuthera, along with participants from international educational programmes, have used the trail as an outdoor classroom where lessons extend beyond textbooks.
To date, dozens of students have taken part in structured environmental activities designed to strengthen their understanding of biodiversity, ecology and conservation.
The experience has also left a lasting impression on visitors.
According to Ms Burrows, one of the most common reactions occurs moments after entering the forest.
"Visitors describe the feeling as stepping into a new world," she said.
Another memorable stop along the trail is an area known as Casuarina Corridor. There, visitors witness a striking contrast between native forest growth and land afected by invasive casuarina trees.
"The visual contrast of this area leaves a lasting impression about the importance of protecting native forests from the impact of invasive species and other environmental threats," said Ms Burrows. Beyond education and conservation, OEF believes the trail has the potential to strengthen Eleuthera's growing ecotourism sector.
Birdwatchers already travel to The Bahamas in search of native and migratory species, and the organisation sees the trail as another attraction that can encourage visitors to spend more time exploring the island.
"Within the next few years, we believe that the trail will give avid birders, who travel from around the world to visit Eleuthera, another meaningful site to visit, while also introducing them to the broader sustainability initiatives taking place across CTI's campus," said Ms Burrows.
The project's economic impact is expected to extend beyond the trail itself. OEF recently piloted a Bird and Nature Guide Training Programme, equipping local residents with bird identifcation and guiding skills that can be incorporated into future tourism oferings.
The initiative trained 10 participants and created new opportunities for collaboration between guides and conservation professionals.
For Ms Burrows, the trail also highlights
" The visual contrast of this area leaves a lasting impression about the importance of protecting native forests from the impact of invasive species and other environmental threats."
a broader message about the value of protecting natural spaces.
While many people may focus on the birds and plants that are immediately visible, she noted that the ecosystem supports far more life than most visitors realise.
"Eleuthera is similar to every other island in The Bahamas in that it supports a wide array of natural life," she said.
She added that conservation eforts are often most efective when multiple protected spaces work together. In that regard, the Bird's Eye View trail complements environmental sites such as the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve and Seahorse National Park, helping to strengthen biodiversity protection across the island.
Going forward, OEF envisions the trail becoming a community-driven asset that continues to evolve through partnerships, education and entrepreneurship.
"Our goal is to continue to allow local businesses to drive trafc to the space," said Ms Burrows.
Future plans include deeper collaboration with tour operators, opportunities for local artists and vendors, expanded educational programming and volunteer involvement in trail maintenance and development.
"We hope to engage local volunteers to support maintenance and future developments within the space. All of this ensures that the trail remains a shared community asset that is shaped, supported and sustained by the people of Eleuthera,” said Ms Burrows.
Following a successful soft launch, the Bird's Eye View Nature and Birding Trail is expected to ofcially open to the public later this summer, ofering yet another reason for residents and visitors to discover the natural beauty that lies just beyond the beaten path.
For more information or to schedule a visit, contact programs@oneeleuthera.org or call 242-470-8627.
100 JAMZ invades Cat Island for an unforgettable Labour Day weekend
THE nation’s favourite radio station, 100 JAMZ, packed its bags and headed south for an epic cultural invasion of Cat Island for Labour Day weekend.
The JAMZ team joined hundreds of residents and descendants for the highly anticipated annual homecoming festivities, immersing themselves in everything that makes the island unique - from the pristine shores of Pigeon Cay to the famous pink sands of Orange Creek.
Landing on the island, the 100 JAMZ crew could not help but notice and marvel at the newly commissioned Arthur’s Town International Airport. The sleek, newly transformed terminal stood as a magnifcent frst impression for the holiday weekend, welcoming travellers with state-of-the-art facilities and a true modern gateway experience.
The holiday weekend itinerary kicked of with a premier culinary highlight: the frst anniversary celebration of Curly’s Beach Resort.
Renowned for its top-tier hospitality at its sister properties in Nassau (located on Cable Beach and Arawak Cay), the Cat Island location proved that exceptional dining runs in the family. Guests were treated to
upscale
rich musical traditions of the island alive.
No true Family Island trip is complete without exploring the local food scene, and the JAMZ crew found paradise at "The Hot Spot." The venue boasted a mouthwatering menu dedicated entirely to Bahamian land crab. Festivalgoers lined up for decadent helpings of crab soup, crab n’ rice, stufed crab, and traditional crab n’ dough, paired alongside perfectly fried fresh fsh dinners.
Ensuring the massive infux of domestic and international travellers made it to the festivities seamlessly, national
service led by the resort's beautiful and attentive hostess, Danielle.
From fne dining to pure cultural rhythms, the 100 JAMZ team next descended upon the ofcial Cat Island
cat island features
Festi-
val. The energy was electric as attendees were treated to world-class Bahamian entertainment. The crowd danced the night away to live performances from 242 icons including Q-Pid, Ebony, The Ancient Man, and a host of other local stars keeping the
fag carrier Bahamas-air stepped up as a vital partner. The airline ensured safe, timely, and reliable transport to and from the newly upgraded Arthur's Town runway for hundreds of patrons looking to experience the magic of Cat Island.
As the number one station in the country, 100 JAMZ remains deeply committed to supporting local economies, family island homecoming events, and native cultural festivals. The team extends its gratitude to the people of Cat Island for their incredible warmth and hospitality, and eagerly looks forward to the next major stop on its Family Island tour.
beachfront dining at its fnest, surrounded by stunning views and unmatched
CRYPTOQUOTE
A X Y D L B A A X R is L O N G F E L L O W
One letter stands for another. In this example, used for the three L’s, X for the 2 O letters, apostrophes, the length and formation of words are all hints. Each day the code letters are different.
Yesterday’s Answers
BARRINGTON Levy
Reggae legends set to turn back the clock at reggae rewind
JEFFARAH GIBSON Tribune Features Writer jgibson@tribunemedia.net
ROffice Manager
A small Freeport Condominium is seeking a full-time O fce Manager.
EGGAE lovers all across the islands are being invited to take a trip down memory lane as the sounds of classic reggae take center stage at the upcoming Reggae Rewind concert, headlined by reggae icon Barrington Levy and Jamaican hitmaker Serani. The event, presented by Alpha Sounds Promotions, is scheduled for June 13 at the Carnival Grounds Sports Center, Nassau, and promises a night dedicated to the golden eras of reggae music, particularly the sounds that defned the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s.
For many fans, the biggest draw of the night will
undoubtedly be Barrington Levy, one of reggae’s most recognisable and infuential voices. With a career spanning more than four decades, Levy helped shape the dancehall and reggae landscape with a distinctive vocal style that has remained instantly recognisable across generations.
Born in Clarendon, Jamaica, Levy emerged on the music scene in the late 1970s before rising to international prominence during the 1980s. He became known for a string of hit songs including “Here I Come, Under Mi Sensi”, “Too Experienced”, Black Roses, and Murderer. His music has remained relevant well beyond its original release, fnding new audiences through sampling, collaborations, and continued radio play around the world.
Often referred to as one of reggae’s living legends, Levy’s infuence extends beyond Jamaica, helping to introduce reggae and dancehall music to international audiences during a period when the genre was experiencing signifcant global growth.
Sharing the stage will be Serani, whose smooth vocals and infectious melodies have earned him a loyal following throughout the Caribbean and beyond. Best known for chart-topping hits such as “No Games”, “She Loves Me” and “Stinkin Rich”, Serani rose to prominence during the late 2000s and remains one of Jamaica’s most recognisable contemporary reggae and dancehall artists.
His appearance is expected to provide a bridge between generations of reggae fans, connecting the classic sounds of earlier decades with the more modern productions that followed.
Event organisers said “Reggae Rewind” is being designed specifcally for music lovers who appreciate reggae’s rich history and cultural impact. The concert will celebrate the timeless songs that continue to fll dance foors, family gatherings and radio playlists decades after their release.
The successful applicant needs to be competent with bookkeeping, computers, spread sheets and Quick Books.
Also administering the ofce, communicating with unit owners and supervising workers and sub-contractors.
Salary weekly commensurate with skills and ability
Contact Condominium secretary on 727-1629 (8am to 4pm Monday-Friday)
Reggae music has long held a special place in Bahamian culture, with many residents growing up listening to the sounds of legendary Jamaican artists. From roots reggae and lovers rock to early dancehall classics, the genre has remained a staple throughout the islands, infuencing local musicians and shaping generations of Caribbean music fans.
The nostalgic theme of Reggae Rewind is expected to resonate strongly with audiences who remember reggae’s golden years, while also introducing younger listeners to some of the artists and songs that helped defne the genre.
Music enthusiasts can expect an evening flled with singalong favorites, classic rhythms and the kind of feel-good atmosphere that has made reggae one of the Caribbean’s most enduring musical exports.
With Barrington Levy’s catalogue of timeless hits and Serani’s crowd-pleasing performances, organizers are hoping to create an experience that celebrates both reggae’s rich past and its continued relevance today.
SERANI
Job fairs seeks local talent for Great Stirrup Cay
BAHAMIANS across the archipelago are getting the opportunity to connect directly with one of the Caribbean’s leading tourism brands as Norwegian Cruise Line’s Great Stirrup Cay continues a nationwide series of job fairs throughout The Bahamas.
The initiative, spanning ten islands, refects the company’s continued commitment to investing in Bahamian talent and ensuring employment opportunities reach communities beyond Nassau.
From Grand Bahama to Crooked Island, the recruitment campaign is expected to provide hundreds of Bahamians with access to career opportunities connected to the continued growth and development of Great Stirrup Cay — Norwegian Cruise Line’s premier private island destination in The Bahamas.
For decades, Norwegian Cruise Line has maintained strong ties to The Bahamas, contributing signifcantly to the nation’s tourism industry and local economy. As Great Stirrup Cay continues to evolve as a world-class destination, company ofcials say they are focused on ensuring Bahamians remain at the centre of that growth.
The job fairs are designed to attract individuals interested in careers across hospitality, guest services, landscaping, environmental operations, housekeeping, food and beverage, security, and certifed
lifeguard positions. Organisers say the recruitment drive is not simply about flling positions, but about creating sustainable opportunities for Bahamians throughout the islands.
The recruitment tour began in Grand Bahama with a two-day job fair, before the team travelled to Abaco and then on to Eleuthera and Long Island.
The tour continues into Exuma on June 15 and 16 at the Department of Labour in Hoopers Bay before heading to Cat Island on June 18 and 19 at the New Bight Community Center.
Additional stops include San Salvador on June 22 in Cockburn Town, Acklins on June 25 at the Spring Point Community Center, and Crooked Island on June 26 at Ezekiel Thompson Hall in Cabbage Hill.
The fnal stop of the recruitment drive will take place in New Providence on June 29 and 30, with the ofcial venue expected to be announced shortly.
Applicants are encouraged to attend with a copy of their resume, passport, National Insurance Board card, and police record.
For more information and updates regarding the job fair schedule and available opportunities, persons are encouraged to visit the company’s Facebook page, Great Stirrup Cay.
Building a legacy of hospitality
The Vaughan and Krystal story
BEHIND every successful business is a story of passion, perseverance, and purpose. For Vaughan and Krystal Bowe, the husband-and-wife team behind Vaughan B Services Company Inc. and Bubble Wafes & BBQ, their journey is one rooted in hospitality, family, and a shared vision for the future.
Long before becoming business owners in Exuma, Vaughan discovered his passion for hospitality while working as a butler at Sandals Royal Bahamian in Nassau. It was there that he learned the importance of exceptional service, attention to detail, and creating memorable experiences for guests. His dedication to excellence would later take him to Sandals Emerald Bay in Exuma, Sandals Barbados, and eventually Grand Hyatt Baha Mar, where he continued to refne his skills and build an impressive career in luxury hospitality.
While working at Sandals Barbados, Vaughan met Krystal, who was also employed as a butler. What began as a professional connection quickly developed into something more as the two realised they shared not only a passion for hospitality but also similar values, ambitions, and dreams for the future. Their relationship fourished, eventually leading to marriage and the beginning of a remarkable partnership both personally and professionally.
Vaughan had already laid the foundation for Vaughan B Services, a hospitality and concierge company dedicated to delivering world-class
experiences throughout Exuma. However, when Krystal joined the venture, the business evolved into something even greater. Together, they combined their expertise, creativity, and commitment to service to strengthen the company and expand its oferings.
Today, Vaughan B Services has established itself as a respected hospitality brand in Exuma, providing concierge services, butler experiences, vacation planning, transportation coordination, corporate retreats, luxury villa support, private events, island picnics, and customised travel experiences designed to showcase the very best of The Bahamas. The company's mission centers on creating stressfree, memorable experiences for visitors while delivering the personalised service for which Bahamian hospitality is known.
ofering
guests a taste of homemade favors and authentic island hospitality.
Recognising another opportunity to serve both residents and visitors, the couple later launched Bubble Wafes & BBQ, a family-owned food venture that has quickly become known for its unique blend of comfort foods, barbecue favorites, desserts, and its signature bubble wafes. The business embraces a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere while
Bubble Wafes & BBQ has been featured among recommended food and catering options in Exuma and has developed a growing reputation for providing crowd-pleasing meals and desserts for locals and visitors alike.
Yet for Vaughan and Krystal, business success is measured by more than revenue and growth.
At the center of everything they do are their three beautiful daughters. Every late night, every sacrifce, and every milestone achieved is part of a larger vision: creating a legacy for their children. Through their businesses, they hope to demonstrate the values of hard work, integrity, entrepreneurship, and perseverance while building something that can be passed down from one generation to the next. Their story is a testament to the power of partnership. What started with two young hospitality professionals serving guests in luxury resorts has evolved into a thriving family enterprise that serves visitors from around the world while contributing to Exuma's growing tourism and hospitality sector.
In many ways, Vaughan and Krystal embody the spirit of Bahamian entrepreneurship. They took years of experience gained in some of the region's most respected hospitality organizations and transformed that knowledge into businesses that refect their own values and vision. Their commitment to service remains unchanged, but their purpose has grown larger than themselves.
Today, through Vaughan B Services and Bubble Wafes & BBQ, they continue to create unforgettable experiences, support the local economy, and inspire others with their journey from hospitality professionals to business owners.
As their daughters watch the businesses grow, Vaughan and Krystal are building more than companies. They are building a legacy one founded on family, fueled by passion, and guided by the timeless principles of hospitality.
For this remarkable couple, the future is about more than success. It is
VAUGHAN and Krystal Bowe, husband-and-wife team behind Vaughan B Services Company Inc. and Bubble Waffles & BBQ
