Jodian Colomathi embraces challenge as sole PNP female candidate in St James
Published:Friday | February 16, 2024 | 12:06 AMJanet Silvera/Senior Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
As the sole female candidate among 15 men representing the People’s National Party (PNP) in St James, Jodian Colomathi is determined to build upon the legacy of her father, Donald, who served as a councillor for 21 years.
A 35-year-old first-time candidate, Colomathi is a trained teacher and entrepreneur based in John’s Hall, St James.
In addition to running a small funeral-care business, she works as a recruiter with Radius Global Solutions, a business process outsourcing company in Montego Bay.
With her sights set on the Spring Mount Division in St James East Central, Colomathi aims to outshine her Jamaica Labour Party (JLP) challenger, Uvel Graham, come Monday, February 26, when Jamaicans cast votes in the local government elections.
Colomathi, whose father served in the then-named St James Parish Council from 1986 to 2007, said she brings a vision of growth, integrity, honesty, and professionalism to local governance.
Speaking with The Gleaner, she expressed her commitment to providing more options in education, sports, economic empowerment, and social development for the citizens she aims to represent.
“Spring Mount is characterised by its bustling transportation sector, with bus and taxi operators, shopkeepers, hairdressers, and business owners,” noted Colomathi. “Investment in buses to ply the routes is a common practice among locals, with minimal farming activities compared to areas in South St James.”
As the sole female representative of her party in the parish, Colomathi acknowledges the significance of her nomination.
“While I hesitate to label it as an accomplishment, I see it as a step forward in representing my community,” she remarked. “Stepping into what has traditionally been considered a ‘man’s world’ is a challenge I embrace.”
Colomathi said her entry into politics was an opportunity to effect meaningful change.
“I’m grateful for the support and love I’ve received although navigating this arena has its challenges,” she reflected. “My approach will be different, focusing on meeting people where they are and offering inclusive solutions across political divides.”
Highlighting her priorities, she emphasised: “My platform centres on sports and entertainment; education and training; infrastructure improvements, including roads, water, and lighting; as well as culture, agriculture, and citizen safety. Youth development is [also] particularly close to my heart.”
An active member of the community, Colomathi serves as secretary for the New Johns United Football Club and contributes to the John’s Hall Community Development Committee. She has sponsored various community events, including football and cricket competitions.
“When elected, I am committed to addressing community issues directly and effectively through proactive representation in the council,” she asserted.
Colomathi said that her political alignment is influenced by the progressive social policies of former Prime Minister Michael Manley and her father’s distinguished service as a councillor.