BAVINA SOOKDEO

BORN and raised along Rochard Douglas Road in Barrackpore, 28-year-old Dr Aiyna Ali has always carried her village and values close to her heart.

Now, following her success in the April 28 general election, in which won the Princes Town seat for the UNC, she said those same values will guide her in national leadership.

A dentist and the youngest of three daughters, Ali has been known for her compassion, discipline and determination. Her journey, however, was never one of privilege or easy access. It is a story of a grounded upbringing, personal sacrifice and a deep commitment to service.

“I come from humble beginnings,” she told Newsday. “The village I grew up in wasn’t wealthy in material things, but it was rich in heart. The people there had an unwavering sense of community. Whether it was sharing food, helping rebuild after a flood, or simply being present during tough times, there was always someone ready to lend a hand. Yes, we faced challenges like poor road conditions and flooding, but what we had was a spirit of togetherness. It taught me that leadership isn’t about position, it’s about service and that’s a lesson I carry with me every single day.”

Ali’s father, Shaffiat Ali, reflected on his own beginnings to explain what success means in his eyes.

“Bringing them up knowing where I came from, I started from very humble beginnings, didn’t receive a lot of schooling and had to work hard planting rice, watermelon, cutting cane and more, for everything I wanted, even if it was just a pair of pants. So knowing where I come from, I look at success differently from many people. Success for me is not having a doctorate, not coming from a wealthy family or a poor family but it’s more about being contented and about being obedient to your creator and parents.” Today, Shaffiat is a successful businessman.

[caption id="attachment_1153200" align="alignnone" width="768"] Dr Aiyna Ali being kissed by her parents Shaffiat and Dianne Ali at her graduation from UWI. Ali was elected the UNC MP for Princes Town in the April 28 general election. Photo courtesy Dr Aiyna Ali -[/caption]

Ali’s mother, Dianne, who is well-educated, chose to dedicate her life to raising her three daughters. She shared her pride. “I feel very proud and very happy to know that my child will be leading the country in some form or the other.”

As for how feels about being elected an MP, Ali said, “Honestly, it still feels surreal but from the moment the results came in, I knew this wasn’t about me, it was about the people. It’s about their voices being heard and their needs being met. I see this not as a personal victory, but as a responsibility and my purpose in life. I’m deeply humbled and, yes, positively overwhelmed by the support, but that emotion fuels my determination to serve even harder. My goal is to ensure that the people who put their trust in me are represented with dignity, integrity, and action.”

Ali attended Barrackpore ASJA Primary School and later ASJA Girls’ College in San Fernando. Although she di