A diverse group of women took center stage at the TDC Automotive Divisions in St. Kitts and Nevis, for the retail stores’ Women’s Car Care Clinic, a unique event designed to empower women with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to better understand and care for their vehicles.

The clinic, held at the C A Paul Southwell Industrial Park, and Pinney’s Industrial Estate saw over thirty women come together on Saturday 15th and 22nd March 2025, to create an engaging and educational experience focused on basic vehicle maintenance, safety, and general upkeep.

The event featured a series of hands-on and informative sessions led by TDC Automotive Service Professionals, covering essential topics such as oil changes, tyre maintenance, brake inspections, battery care, and troubleshooting common car issues.

“We’re excited to host this Women’s Car Care Clinic as part of our ongoing commitment to educate and empower women in all aspects of automotive knowledge. The clinics are not just about car repairs; it’s about breaking down barriers and building confidence in women, giving them the tools they need to feel empowered and independent when it comes to their vehicles,” said Mr. Duran Merchant, the St. Kitts based Sales and Service Manager.

He added, “The automotive industry has so much potential for women, and events like this are a step toward creating a more inclusive and diverse workforce. Our goal is to inspire more women to also explore careers in automotive fields and ensure they feel welcome and capable in any situation involving cars. Our aim is to continue fostering a culture of learning, through empowerment, by using knowledge and innovation within the automotive industry.

The attendees were highly engaged, asking questions, and actively participated in hands-on demonstrations, and left with a deeper understanding of their cars and how to keep them running smoothly.

In addition to the sessions, the retail stores also highlighted the importance of creating a supportive, inclusive environment for women in the traditionally male-dominated automotive sector. As part of this initiative, the clinic aimed to also raise awareness of career opportunities for women in automotive technology.

The Women’s Car Care Clinic now in its third year has received enthusiastic support from attendees. Discussions are already underway with the respective management teams to host the event biannually based on the overwhelming responses and success.

Picture – Mr. Soldi Jones, TDC Automotive Division (St. Kitts) speaking with participants about vehicle safety at the the Women’s Car Care Clinic on St. Kitts



 

Basseterre, St. Kitts – The TDC Automotive Divisions are continuing its drive to encourage the motoring public
to take advantage of the ongoing Toyota Airbag Recall initiative currently underway in the Federation.

The recall is a critical effort to ensure the safety of owners, drivers, and passengers of the following affected
vehicles:

▪ Toyota Yaris/Belta (2006 – 2012)
▪ Toyota RAV4 (2003 – 2005)
▪ Toyota Corolla (2003 – 2013)
▪ Toyota 4Runner (2013 – 2016)

In the event of deployment, the airbag can rupture, causing metal fragments, and debris to shoot toward the
driver and passengers. These defects have been linked to severe injuries and fatalities globally. Replacing the
airbag for FREE is essential to eliminate the risk and to ensure the safety of the drivers and passengers.

Owners of any of the affected Toyota models are strongly encouraged to take immediate action to replace the
airbags, by contacting the TDC Automotive Divisions, at telephone number 465 2511 in St. Kitts or 469 5430
in Nevis, or via the website, https://www.tdcautoskn.com, as soon as possible.



Over seventy-five women across the St. Kitts and Nevis are now equipped with the knowledge and empowered to use their newly acquired skills in basic Car Care and Welding, thanks to a partnership between the TDC Group of Companies and the Departments of Gender Affairs.

The collaboration between the TDC Automotive Divisions, TDC Home and Building Depots, and the Ministries of Social Development and Gender Affairs, started in the month of March, International Women’s Month, and wrapped up on Saturday 13th April 2024.

The theory and practical sessions were facilitated by a team of trained and certified professionals from within and outside the company, who used their combined years of experience and expertise to conduct the highly interactive sessions. Each participant garnered the basic skills of vehicle diagnostics, along with various welding techniques, and safety protocols.

According to Mr. Kashka Thompson, the TDC Client Relations and Marketing Manager, TDC is thrilled to partner with the Departments of Gender Affairs to offer women the chance to explore and learn. By equipping women with the skill sets and knowledge, we are not only promoting gender equality, but we are also helping to break barriers and promote gender inclusivity by inspiring them.”

He also noted, “This partnership also addresses the gender gap prevalent in technical professions and give women the opportunity to acquire practical skills, gain hands-on experience, and even pursue fulfilling careers in these fields contribute to the growth and development of the economy.”

With the success of the two training sessions, calls are already being made for similar training in electricity, tiling, and woodwork.

Picture – Mr. Anthony Nisbett, Manager TDC Automotive Division facilitating the session on Basic Car Care at the TDC Automotive Division at Pinney’s Industrial Estate on Nevis