Jasmine Lundy (centre) is one of the youngest members of the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute’s (BTVI) Occupational Advisory Committees. She is shown with Fashion Trades Head of Department (HOD), Apryl Burrows (L) and Beauty Trades HOD, Dr. Donnalee Minnis.

Photo: BTVI

At the young age of 27, Jasmine Lundy is honoured to have a seat on the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute’s (BTVI) Occupational Advisory Committee (OAC) for Beauty Trades.

Ms. Lundy is a two-time graduate of BTVI, having completed Nail Technology in Fall 2023 and Esthetics in Spring 2025.

“Being chosen to be an OAC member shows how open-minded and forward-thinking BTVI is. The institution’s willingness to include younger voices demonstrates that it values every perspective, regardless of age or experience. It’s a clear sign BTVI is truly committed to supporting students’ growth and ensuring they receive a quality, competitive education that prepares them for the future,” said Ms. Lundy.

BTVI recently received international accreditation with the Council on Occupational Education (COE), which requires the establishment of one committee per programme though members may serve on multiple committees.

“I am deeply honoured to be seen as a valuable asset who could offer meaningful input to improve BTVI’s occupational programmes. At first, I was surprised that someone my age was considered, but I soon realised it was because of the fresh perspective and passion I can bring to the table,” said the creative.

Further, Ms. Lundy said so far, her experience has been insightful.

“I’ve learned the behind-the-scenes considerations that go into aligning programmes with real-world industry needs. It’s rewarding to see how the curriculum can be adjusted to better equip students to thrive in their chosen careers and I’m excited to be a part of the process,” she stated.

Additionally, Ms. Lundy was among BTVI’s OAC and Institutional Advisory Committee (IAC) members who recently attended a Thank You Breakfast honouring them at The Warwick, Paradise Island. The dedicated industry professionals played a vital role in BTVI’s international accreditation with the COE. The committee members come from some 40 companies across various industries.

BTVI’s Acting Vice President, Dr. Pleshette McPhee lauded committee members for the role they played in BTVI’s accreditation.

“You have been our thought partners, our sounding boards and our champions. You gave your time, your expertise and your wisdom as we worked toward one of the most significant milestones in our institution’s history – accreditation,” said Dr. McPhee.

Further, BTVI Chairman, Elvin Taylor, thanked committee members for their contributions thus far, adding that accreditation could not be accomplished without them, while President, Dr. Linda A. Davis, noted that BTVI has set in motion a framework that will push the institution to the next level.

Dr. Davis spoke to BTVI depending on industry to ensure that programmes have the currency for graduates to be even more effective in the workforce.

Like Ms. Lundy, fellow OAC members have experienced dynamic discussions and provided valuable feedback and forward-thinking ideas that will help shape the future of BTVI’s programmes and better prepare students for success in industry.

Simmone Bowe, who serves on the Business Trades OAC reflected on the accreditation journey, adding that the involvement of industry is critical as it is important for BTVI to be responsive to industry needs. She described the meetings as “Top tier, well organised and great discussions.”

“There has been a progressive nature of incorporating industry in BTVI’s curriculum development. We appreciate BTVI’s effort in leading the way in education that we can see greater impact,” said Ms. Bowe, a Human Resources executive.