08212026 AROUND DA ISLANDS by tribune242

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Friday, august 21, 2026

around da

INCORPORATING

GRAND BAHAMA

THREE BAHAMIAN QUEENS EARN INTERNATIONAL CROWNS Pages 10 & 11

Inside:

BREEF ANNUAL SEA CAMP see page 8

Fly Fishing in Andros

Students from around islands learn subtle art from the experts see page 13

Friday, August 21, 2026 around da Islands

PHILIP SMITH, Agricultural Development Organization executive chairman (centre right), receives a welcome donation of plants for the Pinewood Community Farm from Bruce Pinder, Rocky Farms Nursery (next to Smith), as Snovakia Watson, Public Relations Manager at Sandals Royal Bahamian looks on (left centre).

Sandals, Rocky Farms Nursery partner with ADO to bring Pinewood Gardens Community Farm to Life NASSAU, The Bahamas, August 12, 2026 - “Many hands make hard work easier” – that’s the sentiment echoed by Philip Smith, Executive Chairman of the Agricultural Development Organization (ADO) as the reimagined Pinewood Community Garden takes shape. Born out of a partnership between the ADO and the Sandals Foundation, an injection of some US $69,000 from the philanthropic arm of Sandals Resorts will see to the strengthening and scaling of the Pinewood Gardens Community Farm as a national demonstration site for regenerative agriculture and low-cost organic input production. The move positions the space a practical, replicable model to tackle food security across The Bahamas. Recently, the community farm welcomed a donation of food and ornamental plants from Rocky

Farms Nursery enhancing the diversity of the space. The collection included yellow elder, hibiscus, banana, coconut as well as fertilizer. “We thank Rocky Farm Nursery for this donation. It helps those at the farm understand how to grow different food plants and learn how to feed themselves with healthy food grown right here in The Bahamas.” For his part, Rocky Farms Nursery manager Bruce Pinder saluted the work of ADO, saying, “They’re doing it to better the community, that’s the most important thing. It is fruit trees and other plants, and it is good for the community. I’m glad to help.” Pinewood Community Garden is one of five community farms created by ADO since its launch just under five years ago. ADO has also assisted with the creation or enhancement of farms at 34 schools across

The Bahamas and has packaged and distributed more than 3,400 backyard farming kits. Through a partnership with Ridge to Reefs (RTR) and the investment of the Sandals Foundation, the team will implement a suite of interventions that reduce farming input costs, promote sustainable land use, and equip underserved groups with the tools and skills to grow food and earn income through smallscale agriculture. “It is because of the donors who support our projects that we are able to open these farms in the heart of communities,” said ADO Executive Chairman Philip Smith. “The Sandals Foundation helped us to start the garden – we could not have done it without their support and their constant encouragement. Now the team at Rocky Farms Nursery is helping to broaden the range of plants for the community.”

around da Islands Friday, August 21, 2026

contents This WEEK in Around da Islands Bahamian News, Features & Culture

what’s

hot

GRAND BAHAMA NEWS Pg 4 — Govt addresses concerns about relocation of Rand A&E

this week

Welcome

…to Around da Islands, our weekly supplement, free with Friday’s Tribune.

From classrooms preparing to welcome students back for a new academic year to young Bahamians making their mark through innovation, leadership and community service, this week's Around da Iaslands celebrates the people shaping the future of our nation. We travel from Grand Bahama to Andros and beyond. As the new school year approaches, we examine education developments in Grand Bahama, including ongoing transportation challenges facing families in East Grand Bahama. We also introduce you to three remarkable young pageant queens who are using their platforms to champion causes close to their hearts. And from Andros, we highlight the latest graduates of a fly-fishing certification programme, an initiative that continues to build local expertise and support one of the country's signature eco-tourism experiences. Today's issue features a Bahamian entrepreneur whose award-winning idea is giving new life to coffee waste by transforming it into sustainable packaging, proving that innovation and environmental stewardship can go hand in hand. And a spotlight on Bahamian director, playwright and intimacy coordinator Neka Knowles, whose work is helping to broaden representation in the performing arts while creating opportunities for local talent on and off the stage. Whether it's education, culture, innovation or community achievement, Around da Islands is proud to bring you stories from throughout The Bahamas.

From all of us here at The Tribune – The People’s Paper. COVER Students learn fly fishing, page 13

Pg 5 — Freeport Riders Motorcycle Club host second annual back-toschool giveaway Pg 6 — GB students challenged to think bigger at Innovation SEED Camp

Pg 7 — School bussing still an issue in East Grand Bahama; Minister tours schools.

ELEUTHERA FEATURES Pgs 8 & 9 — Eleuthera youth have the "best day of their lives" at BREEF's annual Sea Camp

INTERNATIONAL FEATURES Pgs 10 & 11 — Three Bahamian queens win crowns at World Imperial Beauty contest in Orlando. Pg 12 — Island Brainwaves

ANDROS FEATURES

Pg 13 — Students learn the subtle art of "y fishing in Andros

NEW PROVIDENCE FEATURES Pg 14-15 — Bahamian director Neka Knowles building artistic bridge between Bahamas and US. For advertising contact:

The Tribune: tribads@tribunemedia.net Phone: 242.502.2394 Grand Bahama 242 News: 242newsbahamas@gmail.com Send story and feature suggestions to: Islands@tribunemedia.net

grand bahama

news

Friday, August 21, 2026 around da Islands

Govt addresses concerns over temporary relocation of hospital A&E By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net HEALTH Minister Dr Michael Darville has defended the temporary relocation of Rand Memorial Hospital's Accident and Emergency Department after concerns were raised over the move's capacity, safety and lack of public notice. Dr Darville said the existing A&E Department must undergo necessary renovations and that significant preparation had gone into establishing the temporary facility at the East Atlantic Drive entrance to the hospital. On August 11, a voice note about the move circulated widely, urging residents to share the information with family members because, in

an emergency, “every second counts”. Central Grand Bahama MP Frazette Gibson questioned the sudden move, and called for greater transparency from the Ministry of Health. In a video posted online, she raised questions about the relocation site, its capacity and the measures in place to ensure patient safety. Mrs Gibson said: “Who approved the relocation? Where is the capacity and safety assessment? What is the plan for patient overflow? And why were residents not properly informed before the move?” Mrs Gibson also raised concerns over reports that the temporary facility can accommodate only 15 people at a time. “Grand Bahama is not asking for excuses. We are demanding answers,” Mrs Gibson said. “Emergency healthcare is not the place for inadequate planning, secrecy or complacency. The people who seek care at Rand Memorial Hospital deserve an emergency department that

is safe, properly equipped and capable of responding to the needs of the community. Patient safety must come first. Every time.” Mrs Gibson said the Minister and the authorities responsible for Rand Memorial Hospital owe Grand Bahama residents a full, transparent and immediate explanation. Responding to concerns, Dr Darville said the alternative location had been prepared to meet the necessary requirements, including negative-pressure capabilities, ventilation and

appropriate air-conditioning systems. Dr Darville said: “I want the residents of Grand Bahama to understand that the time has come for us to do the renovations of the current Accident and Emergency Department.” “A lot of preparation has gone into the alternative location,” he said. “There has to be negative pressure, there have to be all of the necessary vents and air-conditioning associated with it.” Dr Darville acknowledged that the temporary facility may be smaller than the existing department but maintained that it would provide a suitable

working environment while renovations are underway. “We believe that what we have come up with is an excellent working substitute,” he said. “It may be a bit smaller, but this renovation is going to happen very fast.” According to Dr Darville, the renovation is expected to take approximately four to six weeks, although the timeline could be extended by another week or two. “I assure the residents of Grand Bahama that this renovation of the A&E Department is absolutely necessary,” he said.

“We came up with the idea last year. We said, ‘Well, let's try this,’” he said. “We decided to do it again this year. We're going to give back.” The Freeport Riders Motorcycle Club has been part of the Grand Bahama community for about eight years and has between 35 and 40 members who are often seen travelling together around the island. While the club promotes safe riding, members have also made community service a regular part of their mission, supporting churches

By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net AS families across Grand Bahama prepare for the new school year, the Freeport Riders Motorcycle Club is once again stepping up to help make those preparations a little easier. The club will host its second annual Back-to-School Giveaway on Saturday, August 22, at Gully Wash Restaurant in Smith's Point, where children heading back to school can receive a backpack filled with school supplies. For Freeport Riders president Lionel Smith, the giveaway reflects one of the club's most important commitments: giving back to the community. “We just want to have a good time, have fun, but we also want to give back,” Mr Smith told Around da Islands. Mr Smith said the Back-toSchool Giveaway grew out of the club's desire to make a meaningful difference for families.

Members of the Freeport Riders Club supporting a young amputee in need of assistance.

and other charitable initiatives and frequently partnering with local businesses and organisations for ride-outs and give-back campaigns. The club and its partners have assisted a young double amputee and have made donations to Rand Memorial Hospital. Mr Smith said members intend to continue finding new ways to support the community, with plans to introduce additional initiatives in the future. For now, the focus is on helping Grand Bahama students start the school year prepared. Children and their families are invited to Gully Wash Restaurant in Smith's Point on Saturday, August 22, from 2pm to 3pm for the Back-toSchool Giveaway. Backpacks and school supplies will be distributed while supplies last. To ensure the giveaway reaches as many families as possible, there will be a limit of two backpacks per vehicle.

news

FREEPORT RIDERS MOTORCYCLE CLUB TO HOST SECOND ANNUAL BACK-TO-SCHOOL GIVEAWAY

grand bahama

around da Islands Friday, August 21, 2026

grand bahama

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Friday, August 21, 2026 around da Islands

GB students challenged to think Tracey Sands, programme director for Learn2Prospuh, said the goal is to equip young people with knowledge they can use immediately.

BIGGER

This year, particular emphasis was placed on ideas connected to THE second annual Youth Innovation Grand Bahama & Entrepreneurship Academy challenged Photos: Barbara Walkin and the ways Grand Bahama students to think beyond young entreprethe classroom, introducing them to neurs can help put the island on entrepreneurship, technology and the the map. skills needed to turn ideas into viable For Daniel Longe, the businesses. inaugural winner of the The free five-day academy, sponsored SEED Camp Pitch Comby the Grand Bahama Port Authority petition, the experience (GBPA), was held from August 17 to 21 offered lessons that at the Susan J Wallace Community extended well beyond Centre in Freeport. Designed for entrepreneurship. students in Grades 7 through 12, Mr Longe admitted the programme combined interhe was not naturally active workshops, innovation comfortable speakchallenges, team competitions, ing to people or AI and technology labs, busiappearing in front ness plan development, a Youth of a camera. HowVenture Studio and networkever, the programme ing opportunities with business pushed him outside his leaders. comfort zone and taught The week concluded with a pitch him the importance of netcompetition in which participants DANIEL LONGE, the inaugural winner of working and communicating presented their business ideas to a with people in the business the SEED Camp Pitch Competition panel of judges. community. For Jecholiah Braynen, SEED “That was something I realcoordinator, the academy is about ized,” he said. “In order to want to do in life, just be passionate about more than teaching business skills. network and communicate with it and do something that you love,” Mr “This week is really about investcertain people you want to get to Longe said. “If you're doing what you ing in our young people and giving them an opportunity to see what is JECHOLIAH Braynen (right), SEED Coordinator, and Instructor know in the business field, you love, you can always succeed in the end.” possible,” Ms Braynen told Around Tracey Sands, Program Director for Learn2Prospuh. da Islands. Through SEED (STEM Empow“The tools to prosper are in their hands have to step erment and Educational Development), students are exposed to entrepreneurship, now,” Ms Sands said, describing the plat- out of your innovation and technology while devel- form as a space where students can learn, comfort oping practical skills that can serve them listen to podcasts and engage in con- zone.” His versations about navigating life and the well beyond the classroom. advice to changing world of work. “What excites me most is watching The annual academy brings that learn- this year's their ideas come alive,” Ms Braynen said. “We don't just want them to attend ing into a real-world setting, with about participants a camp; we want them to leave believing, 100 students spending the week develop- was straightforward: 'I can create something. I can build some- ing businesses from the ground up. “Students learn about marketing, busi- find something. I can become an entrepreneur.'” you The academy is held in collaboration ness plan development, technology and thing care about with Learn2Prospuh, a digital learn- the process of pitching an idea to potening platform that provides courses in tial investors and judges. They are also and pursue with areas not traditionally covered in school, challenged to think beyond a small con- it passion. including artificial intelligence and auto- cept and consider how technology can “If you're mation, vibe coding, web development, help transform an idea into a business Youth Innovation & Entrepreneurship Academy held its second SEED financial literacy, investing, trading and capable of reaching markets beyond going to do Camp this week at the Susan J. Wallace Community Centre. anything you practical life skills. Grand Bahama,” Ms Sands said.

By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net

around da Islands Friday, August 21, 2026

AS students across Grand Bahama prepare to return to school for the 2026-2027 academic year, Education Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper said work at campuses on the island is progressing and major repairs are largely completed. Mr Cooper made the comments during a recent tour of schools on the island, to which only one media outlet was invited. His office has not responded to requests for further comment. Around da Islands has learned that in East Grand Bahama, transportation and school infrastructure remain concerns as older students continue to travel outside their communities for high school. East End resident Shervin Tate confirmed to Around da Islands that older students are still being bused into Freeport for their high school education. The daily commute can require some students to begin their day as early as 5am, depending on transportation connections and school schedules. Students from Sweeting's Cay face a similar challenge. "Primary students attend school on the cay, while older students travel by boat to McLean's Town before boarding a bus to continue their journey to school," he said. The arrangements highlight continuing concerns over the availability of secondary school facilities in the eastern communities, where residents still await decisions on buildings damaged or abandoned following Hurricane Dorian seven years ago. Mr Cooper pointed to the devastation caused by the hurricane and stressed the importance of ensuring smaller communities receive the same attention as larger population centres. "Every child matters. Every community matters. We want to ensure that small communities understand that they too have the attention of our government and our ministry to ensure that they get the quality of education they deserve in an environment that's friendly and appealing for learning," he said. The minister's tour included the proposed site of a new Caribbean Development Bank-supported school in Freetown and McLean's Town Primary School. At McLean's Town Primary, he acknowledged visible cracks in the belt

course beneath the roof. He said the Ministry of Works has advised that the structure remains sound and that repairs will be carried out during an appropriate period when students are not on campus. "I want the residents of East Grand Bahama to know that we have not left them out." In a statement ahead of the new school year, East Grand Bahama MP Kwasi Thompson said many families are struggling with the rising cost of EDUCATION Minister and Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper and delegation at Jack Hayward preparing children for school. "Parents are once again being Senior High School. does not intend to reopen the buildings as schools, they should be repaired and transferred to Local Government for community use. He also questioned the status of the long-promised new High Rock All-Age School. "The families in East Grand Bahama deserve THE MINISTER’s tour included the proposed site of a new Caribbean certainty, and our Development Bank-supported school in Freetown and McLean’s children deserve Town Primary School. modern educational facilities forced to stretch already strained house- that reflect the importance we place on hold budgets to pay for uniforms, shoes, their future." books, school supplies, transportation, In West Grand Bahama, Holmes Rock lunch money and increasingly, tablets and Primary School Principal Larissa Thompother technology required for learning." son said improvements are under way to Mr Thompson said requests for educa- make the campus more accessible, includtional assistance through his constituency ing wheelchair ramps and upgrades to the office have increased significantly. The grounds. office has responded by distributing more The school's new library and other than 700 backpacks filled with school facilities were also inspected by the Edusupplies, assisting students with tablets cation Minister. An elevator remains out and increasing scholarship support. of service, although officials are considHe also renewed calls for the govern- ering turning its repair into a hands-on ment to address the abandoned school learning opportunity for students interfacilities in East Grand Bahama. ested in science and technology. "In East Grand Bahama, the former Mr Cooper said the ministry's approach school buildings at Freetown and High extends beyond traditional academics. Rock remain abandoned almost five years "We don't just focus on traditional acaafter Hurricane Dorian. These buildings demics. We are also introducing a special continue to deteriorate while providing education diploma for graduation as well no benefit to the communities they once as a vocational education diploma." served." He said the ministry is also working to Mr Thompson said if the government strengthen professional support in schools

through additional training for special education teachers and greater access to specialists, including speech-language professionals and practitioners trained in applied behaviour analysis. "We're going to provide the professionals as well, and we are looking to see how we can beef up what we have to offer by way of services, but also contract those services where necessary from the private sector." The government says potentially thousands of students across The Bahamas are awaiting special education assessments after being referred by teachers or principals. Mr Cooper said completing those assessments remains a priority. On Grand Bahama, about 53 students are awaiting placement at the Beacon School. Some students on the waiting list are of high school age. Mr Cooper said students whose assessments indicate they can be accommodated elsewhere could be placed at Holmes Rock Junior High. At Bartlett Hill Primary School, Principal Danica Martin said a new special education unit is expected to open within weeks and could accommodate up to 20 students. Mr Cooper said the additional classrooms are intended to increase the ministry's capacity to provide specialised support. "We wanted to address this issue immediately, and therefore we sought to refurbish and designate rooms at the Bartlett Hill School as well as the Holmes Rock Junior High School to ensure that we built capacity to ensure that every child needing special education has an opportunity to receive the education that they deserve."

grand bahama

By BARBARA WALKIN barbara@barefootmarketing.net

news

Bussing remains a concern in East GB as gov’t schools prepare for new term

eleuthera

features

Friday, August 21, 2026 around da Islands

around da Islands Friday, August 21, 2026

A BREEF brief: . . . annual Sea Camp for young Eleutherans was "the best day ever!"

By FAY SIMMONS Tribune Education Reporter jsimmons@tribunemedia.net

hirty young Eleutherans spent part of their summer trading screens and everyday routines for masks, fins, and the opportunity to explore their island’s coral reefs, mangroves, and coastal habitats during the Bahamas Reef Environment Educational Foundation’s (BREEF) annual Sea Camp.

Held under the theme “Reef Rescue: The Next Wave,” the camp brought the campers togther at Haynes Library in Governor’s Harbour for an immersive week of marine education, hands-on activities, and daily snorkel expeditions designed to deepen their understanding of the ocean and their role in protecting it. Daily excursions took campers to French Leave Beach and Tippy’s Beach, while a mangrove snorkel in Savannah Sound, led with Nina Sanchez of Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, gave them an opportunity to explore another important coastal ecosystem. For the young participants, the underwater encounters quickly

became some of the most memorable moments of the camp. “If I was at home I would be on my video game but while I am snorkeling I don’t even think about my video game,” said 13-year-old Pharrell Bethel. “I love it so much and wish I could go snorkeling all the time.” Nine-year-old Hensley Bethel, who attended Sea Camp for the first time, said he was already looking forward to returning. “This my first time coming and I hope I come next year hoping I can get better at swimming and snorkeling,” he said. Hensley said he saw a lemon shark and a Nassau grouper and particularly enjoyed snorkeling at Savannah Sound. For 12-yearold Destiny Calixte, seeing a lemon shark and a creek filled with jellyfish made the experience unforgettable. “It was great,” she said. “I saw a lemon shark and we went to a creek with all the jellyfish and it was the best day ever.” Destiny said seeing the lemon shark at Savannah Sound was her favourite part of the camp and admitted she was sad that the programme was ending. The camp also helped participants develop confidence and practical water skills. Governor’s Harbour resident volunteer Judy O’Brien-Chavis said it was rewarding to watch children overcome their fears and become more comfortable in the water.

“This was my first time volunteering with BREEF and it was a really great experience seeing the young children get rid of their fear of the water and actually snorkel and enjoy it,” she said. O’Brien-Chavis also praised the BREEF team members involved in the programme, noting the importance of young Bahamians seeing Bahamians of colour taking leadership roles in environmental education.

Beyond snorkeling, campers participated in arts and crafts, games and educational presentations. They also visited the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve, where they learned about native plants and the species found in their communities.

Using fish identification slates during their snorkeling expeditions, the young explorers identified different fish and marine creatures while learning about the ecosystems they were experiencing firsthand. The programme also introduced participants to the threats facing coral reefs, mangroves and other marine habitats, including warming waters, climate change, coastal development and landbased pollution. Campers learned about the importance of protecting these ecosystems and maintaining access to beaches, which they were taught is a birthright of all Bahamians. BREEF Executive Director Casuarina McKinney-Lambert, who is from Governor’s Harbour, said Sea Camp provides young people with an opportunity to connect with the marine environment surrounding them. “Children on Eleuthera are surrounded by water, but often haven’t yet had a chance to experience our coral reefs, mangroves and seagrass beds,” said Mrs McKinney-Lambert. “Sea Camp is a chance for them to become fully immersed in the wonders of the ocean with snorkel trips to a different site every day, and fins-on activities.” The free camp is available to Eleuthera residents, thanks largely to the support of sponsors,

donors and volunteers. BREEF said the success of the programme has created anticipation for future Sea Camps as young participants look forward to returning for more opportunities to explore and learn. The organisation hopes the experience will inspire young Bahamians to become lifelong stewards of the country’s marine environment while gaining water-safety skills and learning about potential ocean-related careers. BREEF thanked its partners, including Haynes Library, The Moore Foundation, Didier and Martine Primat Foundation, Bahamas Botanicals and Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, along with its donors and volunteers. For the campers, the week provided more than an introduction to snorkeling. It gave them an

opportunity to experience the beauty of Eleuthera’s marine environment firsthand — and to begin understanding their role in protecting it for generations to come. For more information about BREEF and its educational programmes, visit breef.org.

international

features

10 Friday, August 21, 2026 around da Islands

Three Bahamian queens win

By Cara Hunt

Tribune Features Writer cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

Hadassah Kemp

Kaynia Minnis

World Imperial Beauty

Jr Miss 2026

Miss 2026

KAYNIA Minnis grew up on Eleuthera and entered her first beauty pageant at the age of eight as a way to become more involved in her community. Sinace then, pageantry has become much more than competition. “Pageantry became something that allowed me to grow in confidence, leadership, communication, and self-expression,” she said. “And for me, pageantry has never just been about wearing a crown. It has given me a platform to represent my culture, encourage other young women, and become a better version of myself.” She also has a passion for helping others, which led her to pursue a degree in psychology at Voorhees University in South Carolina. “I am especially interested in child psychology and mental health. I have always had a heart for serving others, and I hope to eventually become a psychologist and create spaces where children and families feel supported.” During her reign, Kaynia plans to encourage young people, particularly young women, to understand their worth and recognise the importance of their mental and emotional well-being. “I believe that giving young people access to support, encouragement, and healthy

environments can make a major difference in their lives. I also want to continue promoting education, community involvement, and cultural pride. Coming from The Bahamas and being an international student and now an international title holder, I understand how important it is for young people to know where they come from while also believing that they can achieve things beyond what they may have imagined.” Kaynia hopes her legacy will be one of meaningful impact. “If even one young girl feels more confident, pursues her education, speaks up for herself, or realises that her dreams are possible because she saw me do it, then I believe I have used my crown for its intended purpose.” She also plans to compete in more pageants. She said the experience has strengthened her confidence, communication, leadership and time-management skills, although balancing the demands of competition with her studies was one of the greatest challenges. “One of the hardest parts was managing all of the preparation while also balancing school, responsibilities, and the expectations

that come with representing yourself and your country. Pageantry can look glamorous from the outside, but there is a lot of discipline, preparation, and emotional strength that goes into it." Despite the challenges, she said winning the title made every sacrifice worthwhile. “When I was crowned, I felt a mixture of excitement, gratitude, and disbelief. The moment was also very emotional for me because I was carrying the memories of my grandmother and my pageant sister, both of whom I had lost during this journey. Their absence made that special moment bittersweet, but it also reminded me of the love and memories they left with me. The crown was beautiful, but what meant the most to me was what it represented. It represented hope, growth, perseverance, and the responsibility to use my voice for something bigger than myself.”

HADASSAH Kemp may only be 10 years old, but she has already proven that she is a beautiful soul inside and out. The honour role student is about to enter fifth grade at Temple Christian Elementary and is the founder of her own charity- Hadassah’s Helping Hands Foundation, which focuses on helping people in need. She also enjoys attending church, dancing, singing, running the 400 meters, and most of all, putting smiles on people’s faces.

Hadassah hopes to one day become a pediatric surgeon, but for now she is excited to be following in her mom’s footsteps. “I became interested in pageantry because when I was old enough to understand what pageantry was, I saw that my mom, Ferrice Kemp, was also a pageant queen and had won several titles. I wanted to follow in her footsteps, and my pageant journey began with Galaxy Pageants. I have now continued that journey with World Imperial Beauties, where I proudly achieved the international title of World Imperial Beauty Jr Miss 2026.” Hadassah prepared extensively for the pageant training with national directors Debra Dixon and Da’Janell DixonGreen.

See page 11

L to r - kaynia, Ri.Niyah, Hadassah and pageant national director Debra Dixon.

From page 10 “We worked from early mornings to late nights, preparing everything from my wardrobe to my stage presentation. I also rehearsed and prepared for every level of the competition so that I could give my very best.” The preparation paid off, although the early start on pageant day tested her endurance. “The hardest part of the pageant was having to wake up at 5am to get my hair and makeup done. I was very tired and sleepy, but it was all worth it in the end.” She said competing on an international stage, making friends from different countries, winning seven awards and ultimately capturing the international title made the experience unforgettable. “When my name was called as the winner of my age division, I was completely on cloud nine. I was so happy that I cried. It was such an amazing and unforgettable feeling; at that moment, I knew all the hard work, preparation, early mornings, and sacrifices had paid off.” “This reign will help me become more confident, improve my communication and public speaking skills, and teach me how to represent myself, my family, and my country with grace and confidence.” Hadassah said she wants to use her reign to promote the World Imperial Beauties mandate of HOPE — Helping Our People Everywhere. “I will proudly promote the World Imperial Beauties mandate, HOPE (Helping Our People Everywhere), through my platform of helping those in need with my nonprofit organisation, Hadassah's Helping Hands Foundation. “Through my foundation, I encourage young people to help others through acts of kindness, giving, and community service. I want to continue supporting children, families, and people in my community by donating food, clothing, school supplies, and other necessities.” She also hopes to inspire other young people to believe they are never too young to make a difference. “During my reign, I hope to promote the importance of education, confidence, kindness, and believing in yourself. My goal is to leave a positive impact and show that a crown is not just about beauty, it comes with responsibility, purpose, and service.”

Ri'Niyah Wilson World Imperial Beauty Little Miss 2026 RI'NIYAH Wilson may describe herself as "tiny but mighty", but the Temple Christian student has already proven that determination can take her a long way. Whether she's cooking, reading, dancing or most recently, competing in and winning beauty pageants, Ri'Niyah approaches every challenge with enthusiasm. She hopes to one day become a teacher, and entered her first pageant as a way to socialise and break out of her shell. “The hardest part of any pageant for me is overcoming my fear of walking before a crowd, but somehow each time I am called to show up, I show out.” Ri'Niyah spent countless hours practising her interview, talent and model walk routines. “I definitely shed some tears and wanted to give up. However, my parents encouraged me to keep going and I knew I couldn’t stop. I know that my Heavenly Father gives me the courage and strength to do everything I put my heart and mind to accomplish, and I thank and praise him for it endlessly. I was excited and surprised when I won, so much so I shed tears of joy,” she said. She wants to use her reign to spread awareness about the importance of helping others through community activities and civic outreach. In the future, she hopes to compete in more pageants. “I have met so many amazing people through my journey and cannot wait to continue to grow my sisterhood. I am also looking forward to a new school year, seeing my classmates and learning new things.” She offers this advice to other little girls: try.

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international crowns

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around da Islands Friday, August 21, 2026 11

CRYPTOQUOTE AXYDLBAAXR is L O N G F E L L O W One letter stands for another. In this example, A is used for the three L’s, X for the 2 O’s, etc. Single letters, apostrophes, the length and formation of words are all hints. Each day the code letters are different.

Sudoku is a number-placing puzzle based on a 9x9 grid with several given numbers. The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so the each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the same number only once. The difficulty level of the Sudoku increases from Monday to Sunday

island

brainwaves

12 Friday, August 21, 2026 around da Islands

Yesterday’s Sudoku Answer

MICRO CROSSWORD

CHALLENGER

Yesterday’s Answers

By Cara Hunt Tribune Features Writer cbrennen@tribunemedia.net

Students from around the islands learn the subtle art of fly fishing

FIFTY-ONE students recently completed the National Flats Fishing Certification Programme hosted by BAMSI in Stafford Creek, Andros. The initiative, launched two years ago, is designed to equip participants with the skills needed to become certified flats fishing guides on their respective islands. Students participating in the course came from several islands, including Acklins, Harbour Island, New Providence and Andros. All 51 students successfully completed the programme and obtained their captain's licences. Fly fishing is a major draw for visitors to the Family Islands, making it a potentially lucrative career path. Course instructor Glister Wallace said the programme was comprehensive, incorporating elements of the Bahamas Host programme, CPR training and the requirements for becoming a licensed boat captain and fishing guide. “You have students who came who has no knowledge about any boating skills or anything like that. That in itself, even if they don't pursue it as a career, they have accomplished something and gained some experience in this industry.” Student Dario Moxey said: “It has been excellent. I learnt a lot of stuff that I actually didn't know before, given the fact that I used to be on boats a lot. I learnt about navigation and fly tides and currents and a lot of stuff that will be helpful in the future.” Patricka Ferguson, of Delectable Bay, Acklins, said: “I joined the fly fishing course to enhance my skills

and to also to comcompany that historical ing She by

become certified, but plement my tour caters to both and sports fishenthusiasts.” was joined several other residents from Acklins, including

Davaldo Simms, Orville Williamson, Joseph Deleveaux and Tanaj Virgil. The programme was coordinated by BAMSI and endorsed by the Ministry of Tourism and Aviation, the Ministry of Agriculture, Marine Resources and Family Island Affairs, and the Bahamas Fly Fishing Industry Association.

features

on the fly in Andros

andros

Fishing

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Bahamian director Neka builds her own stage Knowles aturnquest@tribunemedia.net

By AVA TURNQUEST Tribune Digital Editor

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EIGHT years ago, Neka Knowles left The Bahamas for New York with little more than determination and a belief that there was room for stories, and bodies, like hers on the world stage. She arrived at Marymount Manhattan College (now Northeastern University’s NYC campus) with no formal theatre training, only determination and grit from a lifetime of being told she couldn’t and the support of a mother who believed she could. Today, the Bahamian director, playwright, producer and intimacy coordinator is building a career that spans New York, Miami, Chicago and beyond. And as she directs acclaimed productions in the United States, her focus remains firmly on home. Ms Knowles recently launched Belly Laugh Entertainment, a production company she hopes will become a bridge between The

Bahamas and New York, creating opportunities for young Bahamians to gain professional experience in the performing arts while developing original work in both countries. She said: "The plan with my company is to create a pipeline between New York City and Nassau, where I can develop work in both places, and then produce work in both places, and create opportunities for Bahamian students and young people to be able to come up here and get their feet wet and figure out if this is something they actually want to pursue before doing what I did and going to college for eight years for it." The vision is the culmination of a journey shaped as much by resilience as achievement. Growing up in Nassau, Ms Knowles attended Queen's College and said much of her childhood was defined by other people's expectations. Standing at six feet tall from

the age of 11, she was routinely encouraged to pursue basketball instead of the arts, while feeling judged more for her appearance than her creativity and scholastic prowess. Ms Knowles said: “I literally had family members who would tell me things, like, 'If Shaq isn't available, who's gonna take you to prom?' I got bullied in every facet of my life. At school, at home, and all this other stuff, but the one place I realized no one could beat me, was how smart I was, and my pattern recognition, and how nothing got past me." “No one cared if I could read, no one cared I could write, no one cared about anything like that. All they cared about was this tall girl who don't play basketball and that's a waste of space in life."

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From page 14 Ms Knowles said while studying in the United States she often encountered scepticism about whether stories rooted in a Bahamian perspective could find an audience. Rather than scale back her differences, she leaned into them. She titled her thesis play, Guanahani, an epic fantasy she independently produced that sold out its five-performance run. Her work has since taken her to productions across the United States, including directing in Miami and collaborating on works by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Lynn Nottage. She has also established

herself as an intimacy coordinator, a specialised role that helps choreograph scenes involv- ing physical intimacy while ensuring actors' safety and consent throughout the creative process. While her résumé continues to grow overseas, Ms Knowles measures success differently than she once did.

"Success is a goal post that I can move," she said. "I think it's best to shoot for the stars, because below the stars it's the clouds, and below the clouds is the trees, and below the trees are the fruit, and then you've got to get really low before you get to the ground. There's a lot of places you can post up and say, 'You know what? This is my definition of success." That philosophy now drives her long-term ambition of returning home to establish a performing arts school and studio where young creatives can develop their talents without feeling pressured to fit traditional expectations. Knowles has already begun giving back through a scholarship initiative created with her mother's company to help Bahamian students pursuing creative and

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unconventional careers with college application costs. "I want to create a space where the weirdos, the ones that people don't want to understand," she said. "Being over six foot, not being fast, people were really confused by that. I want to create a space where kids who want to strive for more can get the opportunity to be that ambitious without having to deal with people doubting you because they're insecure in themselves." She added: "I want people to know that following the arts is not a scam. It can pay off." To learn more about her work, visit nekaceciliaknowles.com

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Friday, August 21, 2026 around da Islands