ORACABESSA, St Mary — Fourteen-year-old Brittney Coleman isn’t waiting to grow up to lead. After being selected as junior councillor for the Oracabessa Division in St Mary, the 10th grader is now fully embracing her role as the elected junior mayor of Port Maria.

“I accepted this position because it aligns closely with my personality, values, and a sense of purpose,” the St Mary High School student told the Jamaica Observer.

“From a young age, I have had a passion for leadership and recognised it as one of my strengths,” Coleman explained.

She told the Observer that Councillor Ramon “Big House” Henry (People’s National Party, Oracabessa Division) invited her to take on the junior councillor role after noting her good manners, sense of responsibility, and willingness to assist others.

“Being elected as the junior mayor is an incredible honour and a dream come true,” Coleman said. “But I understand that this position is not defined by a title alone, but by the work I must do to earn the trust and confidence of my fellow citizens.”

Her platform centres on sustainable development, youth empowerment, and community upliftment. Among her plans are tree-planting drives for environmental sustainability, getting more youth involved in decision-making, and pushing overall development of the parish.

“Many young people struggle to recognise their purpose due to various challenges,” said Coleman, a devout Christian for the past eight years who got baptised at age six.

“By reducing these challenges and encouraging spiritual and personal growth, we can empower our youth and place our parish in a position for positive transformation,” she added.

Coleman spoke of the behind-the-scenes work done by the municipal corporation and the role she is ready to play to help spur further growth in St Mary.

As junior mayor and the voice of youngsters within her division, she wants to see more of her peers making a difference.

“We represent the future [and have a role in] building back the community spirit so that persons can believe this is the place to live, work, and raise a family,” said Coleman.

She has a wide reach. An active member of the New Testament Assembly in Hamilton Mountain, she has served as president of the children’s ministry, a member of the media team, and choreographer for the children’s ministry dance group.

“My faith plays a central role in shaping my values, character, and leadership approach,” the confident Coleman said. “Effective prioritisation and strong time management skills are essential. When I do experience burnout, I rely on my family to serve as a strong support system.”

Looking ahead, she sees herself continuing to play a role in church leadership as she pursues a career in finance and government.

“I am passionate about contributing to national development and economic growth,” she said.

To unwind, Coleman enjoys baking, praise-and-worship dances as well as exploring new foods and places. She spends a fair bit of time reading the
Bible, and mathematics is her favourite subject. In all she does, she is guided by her motto: It is acceptable to end the day with an unfinished to-do list, but it is not acceptable to allow another day to pass without making progress.

For now she’s focused on service.

“I am deeply grateful to God for granting me this opportunity to showcase my talents and fulfil my purpose,” said Coleman.

Former mayor of Port Maria, Councillor Levan Freeman (People’s National Party, Belfield Division) congratulates newly appointed junior mayor Brittney Coleman. Ingrid Henry