As one of the title sponsors of the Technical Cadet Corps Programme (TCCP), Bahamas Power and Light Company Ltd. (BPL) continues to power the nation’s future, awarding outstanding cadet Terenique Welch with a $20,000 scholarship to support her higher education journey, along with the prestigious BPL Chief Executive Officer Award.

The scholarship, which will be distributed over four years, was presented during the TCCP Awards Ceremony on May 7, 2026, where Welch was recognized for her academic excellence, leadership and commitment throughout the programme.

BPL Chief Executive Officer Toni Pratt said the Company is proud to support academic excellence and help cultivate the next generation of Bahamian energy leaders. “The Technical Cadet Corps Programme is filled with bright, ambitious young minds eager to expand their knowledge and make a meaningful impact in the technical field and across our nation,” said Pratt. “BPL is proud to invest in their future, particularly that of Terenique Welch, who has distinguished herself as an exceptional young leader and a shining example of the talent, determination and potential that exists within this programme and our nation’s youth.”

A 12th-grade student of C.R. Walker High School, Welch said she was overwhelmed and grateful upon learning she had received the award.

“I was really surprised,” said Welch. “I know I put in the work, but I still didn’t expect it. I really appreciate this opportunity from BPL, especially because I’ve heard about the company’s renewable energy initiatives, and I want to use my studies in mechanical engineering to further renewable energy use here in The Bahamas.”

Welch shared that she has already been accepted to the University of Prince Edward Island in Canada and the University of Missouri–St. Louis in the United States of America. She plans to pursue studies in mechanical engineering beginning in the Spring of 2027.

Reflecting on her experience in TCCP, Welch encouraged other students to remain committed to their goals despite the demands of balancing academics and extracurricular development. “I know it can be tiring to do school and then basically do more school three days out of the week,” she said. “But trust me, it pays off. Even if you don’t win awards, you still gain information and experiences that can help you in your future career.”

Welch’s mother, Lashawndell Thurston, said the scholarship has opened doors that once seemed
financially out of reach.

“Honestly, because of my finances, I wasn’t even looking for her to go away to school,” Thurston shared. “I was satisfied with her possibly studying electrical or mechanical engineering locally, but thanks to BPL and the other sponsors, doors have opened. She now has the opportunity to further her education abroad, and I’m extremely grateful.”

BPL Chief Operating Officer Anthony Christie said the company remains committed to helping develop the next generation of engineers and technical professionals needed to support the country’s evolving energy sector.

“BPL is proud to sponsor this programme and continue strengthening the next generation of engineers and technicians that we need at BPL,” said Mr Christie. “As we continue to advance in the New Energy Era at BPL, we recognize the importance of investing in young people who will help shape the future of energy in The Bahamas.”

BPL looks forward to continuing its longstanding partnership with programmes such as the TCCP, as the power company remains committed to powering beyond the grid – empowering young people, supporting academic excellence, and helping to build a stronger, more sustainable future for The Bahamas.

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