Engineer and community activist Ryan Brathwaite says he intends to “walk the hills” of St Joseph with residents, not ahead of them, as he formally accepted the Barbados Labour Party’s (BLP) nomination to contest the constituency in the next General Election.
Brathwaite was endorsed unopposed during a nomination meeting at Grantley Adams Memorial School on Saturday night, where party supporters packed the hall to witness the transition from retiring MP Dale Marshall to a new generation of leadership.
“This is the parish that gave me my start, the place that shaped me,” Brathwaite told supporters as he stepped onto the stage to sustained applause. “I am humbled by your confidence, and I promise to serve every district, every family, every young person and every elder with respect and dedication.”
He said his commitment to the constituency was deeply personal, grounded in a lifelong connection to the hills, villages and families of St Joseph.
“I have walked these hills all my life, and I intend to walk them with you – not ahead of you,” Brathwaite said, drawing loud cheers from the crowd.
The 36-year-old, whose professional background spans engineering, project management and community work, described his nomination as a call to service rather than a political promotion.
“This is not about titles or position,” he said.
“It is about ensuring that the people of St Joseph feel seen, heard, and supported – every day, not just on election day.”
Brathwaite reserved special praise for Marshall, who is stepping away from elective politics after 22 years. In one of the most heartfelt moments of the night, Brathwaite turned to him and said: “Well done, my brother… well done for all you have done and continue to do for this great constituency.”
Marshall, who earlier recounted meeting Brathwaite as a teenaged Combermerian at Hackleton’s Cliff in 2002, publicly endorsed him as ready for leadership.
Supporters and party officials say Brathwaite’s strength lies in his connection to the parish and his reputation for practical, hands-on assistance to residents. Throughout the evening, speakers highlighted his quiet volunteerism, his work with young people and families, and his measured, calm approach to solving community issues.
Though he has never before contested a national election, Brathwaite signalled that his campaign will centre on the challenges residents speak about most: the state of roads and bridges, land slippage, the availability of services, and opportunities for young people.
“I want every young boy and girl in St Joseph to know that there is a future for them right here,” he said. “We will build it together.”
For Brathwaite, the message was simple:
“St Joseph has shaped me, and now I am ready to give back – fully, faithfully, and with everything I have.”
