Bavina Sookdeo

KAMLA PERSAD-BISSESSAR, who etched her name into this country’s history books as the first female prime minister in 2010, was officially sworn in once again as TT’s ninth PM on May 1, following a victory at the polls on April 28. Her return to office has stirred a wave of reflection among many, not just about her political accomplishments, but about the woman behind the title – a woman rooted in community and shaped by struggle.

Described as a leader who understands not just policies but people, Persad-Bissessar is seen by many as a figure of empathy and authenticity. This was demonstrated just weeks before the election, when she quietly attended the funeral of local singer and musician Pravin Persad in Boodoo Trace, Penal – the very place she spent her early childhood years. Villagers say she wasn’t there as a politician, but as a neighbour.

“This is nothing new,” one resident said. “She has always made time for the community, showing up at funerals and gatherings, even when no one was watching.”

Born on April 22, 1952, Persad-Bissessar, 73, is the daughter of Rita and Lilraj Persad. Her mother worked a wide range of jobs – from cleaning houses and selling roti to sewing garments and vending jewellery – while her father, an accountant at Texaco’s head office, a stern but loving figure, provided a foundation grounded in discipline and service. Persad-Bissessar developed a keen curiosity from a young age. She loved books and was fascinated by science and technology – interests that would later inform her drive for education and innovation.

To better understand her early life and the people who shaped her, Newsday visited Penal and Siparia. We spoke to some residents who remembered her from childhood. While many were willing to express their views, they remained reluctant to speak publicly or be photographed, pointing to fears about crime, personal safety and an overall climate of insecurity – one they earnestly hope the newly sworn-in prime minister will address and help to alleviate.

One woman from Boodoo Trace recalled, “She was always a hard-working child. I remember us playing hoop in the grass, climbing trees...but she was also helping in the lagoon and with chores. She had a seriousness about her even as a little girl.”

Although born in Siparia, Persad-Bissessar and her family lived in Boodoo Trace, Penal, until she was about seven years old. The house she once lived in no longer stands, but memories of her remain vivid for those who shared those early years with her. She attended Mohess Road Hindu School, walking nearly two miles each day – a testament to the determination that would define her life.

Her grandfather, Chirongee Persad, was an active member of the sugar union and helped her and her siblings with their schoolwork. “He was a fighter,” said another villager. “He stood up for sugar workers and wanted better lives for all of us. That fight...you can still see it in Kamla.”

[caption id="attachment_1153177" align="alignnone" width="606"] In this file photo, then-oppo