Press Release
Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Social Services Phedra M. Turnquest challenged participants in the Zonta Club of New Providence’s 2026 Workforce Readiness Programme to embrace the opportunity before them, invest in themselves, and develop the character, discipline, and skills needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market.
Mrs. Turnquest delivered the keynote address during the opening ceremony of the three-week programme on Monday at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), where dozens of unemployed women began training under the theme, “Building Tomorrow’s Workforce Today.”
Now in its 14th year, the programme is hosted by the Zonta Club of New Providence and is designed to prepare women to enter or re-enter the workforce through practical skills training, professional development, and personal empowerment.
Commending the Zonta Club and BTVI for their longstanding commitment to empowering women, Mrs. Turnquest praised the initiative for helping participants strengthen their employability while building confidence and self-sufficiency.
Reflecting on the programme’s theme, she acknowledged that unemployment affects women from many different backgrounds and circumstances.
“There are those who are overqualified, those who need to be retooled because technology has changed, those with informal skills who now need credentials, and those who simply want to build a better life for themselves and their families,” she said.
Using the analogy of boats navigating different waters, Mrs. Turnquest reminded participants that although they all share the experience of seeking employment, each person arrives with unique challenges, strengths, and goals.
“Today is the starting line,” she said. “What you do and how you move about over these three weeks are critical.”
She encouraged participants to fully commit themselves to the programme, reminding them that while Zonta and BTVI were investing in their future, lasting success would require their own dedication and willingness to grow.
“You must want to be better,” she emphasized. “Your investment is your time. What you fill yourself with will determine how far you go.”
Mrs. Turnquest urged participants to begin developing the habits employers seek, including punctuality, professionalism, accountability, integrity, and excellent communication skills. She stressed that tomorrow’s workforce requires employees who can think creatively, work collaboratively, demonstrate compassion toward colleagues, and consistently give an honest day’s work for an honest day’s pay.
She also challenged the women to present themselves professionally, noting that workplace attire, attitude, and conduct all contribute to making a positive first impression.
“The workforce is competitive,” she said. “These three weeks can jumpstart you and put you on the path to stability through employment.”
Beyond career preparation, Mrs. Turnquest encouraged participants to strengthen their support networks, rebuild meaningful relationships where possible, and remain grounded in faith as they pursue personal and professional growth.
“Create your village, your support team—your family and friends,” she said, adding that genuine relationships and strong values remain essential ingredients for long-term success.
Throughout the programme, participants will receive training in goal setting, entrepreneurship, financial literacy, conflict resolution, healthy relationships, women’s health, domestic violence awareness, workplace ethics, résumé writing, interview preparation, and Microsoft Office applications.
The programme is intended to equip unemployed women with the practical skills, confidence, and workplace readiness needed to secure sustainable employment while advancing Zonta’s mission of improving the educational, economic, legal, health, and professional status of women.
The 2026 Workforce Readiness Programme runs from June 29 to July 17 at BTVI’s Old Trail Road campus and concludes with a graduation ceremony recognizing participants who successfully complete the training.
