By Nixon Dickenson
In this week’s article, Voices from the Streets, I would like to share my conversation with Kristien Simons, a brilliant and promising young man. Kristien is employed with Fortis TCI, and his expertise is in construction management.
He also works with the Concrete Jungle mentorship program, partnering with Omardi Morris, Abimael Martinez, Irwin Williams and Joey Sinous. Their focus is providing mentorship support for boys in the community and developing their basketball skills. Kristin believes that there cannot be flowers if there is no rain.
He affirms that rain can represent growth and challenges, as this is how life can be. Hence, he has learned to take the good and the bad, always working towards achieving success through hard work and perseverance. Kristien would like to see more infrastructure catering to the youth. He believes every community should have recreational spaces for youth to engage in positive activities.
Youth development should be more than just words; there needs to be evidence of this change. However, he shared that he is grateful for what is already in place and encourages the young people to take advantage of the opportunities. He shared that times have changed in the country, and many locals can access higher education and obtain specialised degrees.
This needs to be translated into a progressive era for the Turks and Caicos Islands where the focus should be on nation-building with young, visionary leaders at the front. There is a need for young men and women to play a vital role in this nation-building, as it will require all hands-on deck. He shared that he is grateful for those who influenced his life and encouraged him to go out and make a difference. He stressed that more of this is also needed today: more encouragers and fewer detractors. For flowers to grow, they need to be watered and cared for.
When the youths know that the nation cares for them through investing in their interest and providing them with opportunities for ownership, there will indeed be growth and a progressive Turks and Caicos Islands. Kristien Simons is genuinely inspiring, and he is making a positive impact in his community.
His dedication to his professional career and work with the Concrete Jungle mentorship program is commendable. His belief that growth comes from good and challenging times is a powerful message. His vision for more infrastructure and recreational spaces for youth is essential for fostering a supportive environment.
His gratitude for existing opportunities and his call for more encouragers in the community are vital points. He sees the potential for a progressive future in the Turks and Caicos Islands, driven by young, visionary leaders. Well done, Kristien. Continue to be a rainmaker!
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