The Right Hon. Rita J. Gardiner, OBE, OTCI, is the 6th Complaints Commissioner (Ombudsman) of the Turks and Caicos Islands since November 2022. She has accepted this appointment with the greatest humility and deemed it a privilege to represent the people of the Turks and Caicos Islands once again in such a distinguished role. Her main mandate is to seek redress for complainants where an injustice has been caused by maladministration and to treat all equally.

Hon. Gardiner’s career path started out in the field of education, where she obtained her A.A. degree from Indian River Community College in Fort Pierce, Florida. She has served in several key leadership positions in the Turks and Caicos Islands, most notably serving as the first Coordinator of the Women’s Desk Gender Affairs (1999–2011), transforming the office from a mere unit to a well-established and respected Gender Bureau, promoting the role from Coordinator to that of Director. She has developed a depth of professional experience and knowledge in the private and public sectors of her country and is well versed with a wealth of information from the international communities having travelled extensively during the Women’s Movement, including the United Nations with the Commission on the Status of Women and the Beijing + 10 Global Conference.  Hon. Gardiner has done much for the betterment of her country and for the Region when it comes to Women’s empowerment as she prides herself in working with the OECS Member States and the Turks and Caicos on the Family Law and Domestic Violence Reform.   

In addition, Hon. Gardiner served the Turks and Caicos Government as a nominated member from 1991-1995.  She has volunteered her services for the greater portion of her life in the area of sports, thus affording her the distinguished position as Turks and Caicos’ first National Sports Hall of Fame Inductee, similarly to many other significant regional and international awards.

Hon. Gardiner’s main objective is to bring awareness to the entire Turks and Caicos Islands through education and public forums administered by offices that are easily accessible, effective, and efficient throughout the Turks and Caicos Islands, providing services with dignity and integrity. She knows her years of experience and leadership skills have prepared her for her new role as Complaints Commissioner, and she is committed to working diligently to address the issues faced by the Complaints Commission, in her endeavors to Promoting Harmony, Good Governance, and Justice.

Mrs. Shalandra Smith-Salomon is an Administrative Officer for the Turks and Caicos Islands Office of the Complaints Commission, Mrs. Smith has a high school diploma and currently pursuing an Associate’s degree in early childhood development.

Mrs. Smith – Salomon has been employed in various customer service positions since 2016 in the private sector. In 2019 Mrs. Smith-Salomon opened and managed her own daycare until a mandatory shutdown in 2020 due to Covid-19. Mrs. Smith- Salomon joined the Office of the Complaints Commissioner in July 2022.

Raynae Myers is a dynamic young leader and fearless advocate for change, who was appointed as Investigative Officer at the Office of the Complaints Commission on March 25th, 2025. In this role, she is dedicated to promoting transparency, accountability, and justice in public service, ensuring that the concerns of citizens are addressed with fairness, diligence, and integrity.

Prior to this appointment, Ms. Myers gained valuable legal experience as a Legal Apprentice at the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). During her tenure, she supported the prosecution team by preparing court documents, assisting with case files, and contributing to the smooth administration of justice. This role strengthened her legal acumen and exposed her to the practical workings of the criminal justice system.

Ms. Myers holds an Associate’s Degree in General Studies (Law, Politics, Sociology) and has pursued further undergraduate studies in Law and Politics. She has also expanded her knowledge in international human rights, completing a certificate program with the Inter-American Commission of Human Rights on the Inter-American Human Rights System.

Her professional role is complemented by her passion for civic engagement and youth advocacy. She serves as a National Youth Parliamentarian, where she contributes to policy discussions that reflect the aspirations of young people. She is also an active member of Rotaract, proudly serving as International Services Chair, where she champions community service, leadership, and international collaboration.

Guided by faith, vision, and purpose, Ms. Myers is committed to leveraging her skills and experiences to advance good governance, promote human rights, and empower the next generation of leaders. She believes that authenticity and service are the cornerstones of meaningful impact, and she continues to dedicate herself to initiatives that foster justice, equity, and progress in the Turks and Caicos Islands and beyond.

Ms. Samadia Lightbourne is the Senior Investigative Officer at the Office of the Complaints Commission (Ombudsman) in the Turks and Caicos Islands, where she plays a pivotal role in promoting transparency, accountability, and good governance. With a career rooted in public service, she brings both academic rigor and practical expertise to her investigations into maladministration and improper conduct within government agencies.

Ms. Lightbourne holds a Bachelor of Social Work and has earned professional certifications in Public Speaking, Law for Human Resource Practitioners, and Developing Leadership Skills through the University of the West Indies Open Campus. Her academic background complements her sharp investigative instincts and her ability to engage effectively with the public.

Before joining the Ombudsman’s office, Ms. Lightbourne served with distinction in the Royal Turks and Caicos Islands Police Force for 18 years, rising through the ranks from Police Constable to Police Sergeant. Her extensive training in law enforcement includes a certificate in Policing Practices and Principles, along with numerous specialized certifications in policing and investigations.

In her current role, Ms. Lightbourne continues to demonstrate an unwavering commitment to justice and public accountability. She firmly believes that justice is for all, and she works tirelessly to ensure that every citizen, regardless of status or background, has equal access to fair treatment and redress.

At the heart of her mission is a deep passion for human rights, both in the workplace and in society at large. This has been her driving force throughout her career, and she aspires to one day become a human rights and employment lawyer, further expanding her ability to advocate for those whose voices are often unheard.

Her journey is a testament to the power of integrity, empathy, and fearless advocacy in the pursuit of a more just and equitable society.