SHIVANNA SAM may be a fresh face in the political scene in TT, but a lifelong commitment to service lies at the heart of her journey.
The Member of Parliament (MP) for Cumuto/Manzanilla says she is determined to broaden her reach and make a meaningful difference in the lives of citizens across the country.
The 37-year-old in an exchange with WMN by WhatsApp on May 15 and said prior to becoming a politician, she had been an environmental investigator at the Environmental Management Authority (EMA).
"For thirteen years...I was actively involved in shaping the future of environmental governance within TT, through my expertise in environmental regulation and compliance monitoring.
"My career was grounded in care for people and their surroundings by focusing on protecting communities and their environment."
Sam said politics felt like a "natural progression" in her life.
[caption id="attachment_1155758" align="alignnone" width="683"] MP for Cumuto/Manzanilla and Parliamentary Secretary in the Ministry of Public Utilities Shivanna Sam -[/caption]
"It offers me a platform to advocate more effectively for systematic change and ensure that every voice in our nation is heard and valued, especially in underserved communities."
Sam convincingly won the Cumuto/Manzanilla seat at the April 28 elections gaining 68 per cent of the vote.
Sam accumulated 12,559 votes, while the PNM's Sanjiv Boodhu was the next best with 5,393 votes.
As an MP, Sam hopes to have her constituency "thrive and not just survive.
"My hope for Cumuto/Manzanilla is that every resident feels seen, heard and included in the nation’s development.
"This means improving infrastructure, creating safe spaces for youth, enhancing healthcare access, supporting agriculture and entrepreneurship."
With her prior background, Sam said sustainable development is one of her passion – not only environmentally.
"My goal is not just to build roads and buildings, but to build lives. I want my constituents to have digital access (as it is a rural community) and education programmes that unlock potential."
On May 3, Sam was sworn-in as a parliamentary secretary in the Ministry of Public Utilities.
While the portfolio is more of support to the line minister, Barry Padarath, she hopes she can assist in bringing improvements to people's lives.
"My responsibilities include supporting policy development, managing departmental initiatives and representing the ministry in parliamentary matters.
"My hope is that when my time ends, people can have improved access, quality and resilience of public utility services, especially in the context of national development and environmental stewardship."
Shivanna's humble beginnings
Born and raised on Little Cora Road in Cunaripo, Sam was nurtured by a close-knit family and community whose values and support played a pivotal role in shaping the woman and leader she is today.
"My life and my roots are in Cumuto and by extension Sangre Grande, where I have lived and grown.
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