St. Clair “Jimmy” Prince is a deeply respected public servant, consummate communicator, and unwavering champion for the people of Marriaqua. As the Unity Labour Party (ULP) candidate for the constituency, he brings to the role not only integrity and experience, but a life’s journey shaped by his community and a heartfelt commitment to progress and equity.
Born and raised in Marriaqua, Minister Prince laid his educational foundation at Marriaqua Government School and Cane End Primary, before attending St. Vincent Boys’ Grammar School. He later pursued studies in journalism and communication at the Caribbean Institute of Mass Communication (CARIMAC) at the University of the West Indies. These early academic experiences informed his capacity for leadership, public discourse, and community engagement.
Minister Prince began his professional journey as a teacher at Emmanuel High School in Mesopotamia, where he inspired students with discipline, empathy, and ambition. He then transitioned into media and public service as Chief Information Officer at the Government Information Services (GIS), now the Agency for Public Information (API), where he upheld ever-important pillars of transparency and public awareness. His roles as a radio and television producer, as well as a news correspondent for regional and international media, further demonstrated his ability to communicate with clarity and conviction, and to give voice to national concerns.
Beyond formal roles, Minister Prince has long been embedded in civic and cultural life. He served on the National Youth Council, actively engaged with national and regional NGOs, and collaborated with community-based organisations. A cultural activist and sports administrator, he has tirelessly supported the arts, youth development, and community identity. He is also a published poet, with two collections to his name, sharing his reflections and Vincentian spirit through verse.
First elected to Parliament in 2015, Minister Prince was appointed Minister of Education, National Reconciliation and Ecclesiastical Affairs, where he ushered in a transformative era. He expanded scholarships from a few to dozens each year, dramatically increasing opportunities for students across the nation. Under his stewardship, thousands of digital tablets were distributed to teachers and students, ensuring continuity in learning even amidst unprecedented challenges. In a landmark step toward educational equity, he oversaw the opening of the first secondary school on Canouan, granting children access to quality education closer to home.
Later in November 2020, as Minister of Health, Wellness and the Environment, Minister Prince brought that same pace of progress and human-centered leadership to public health. He secured international partnerships, particularly with Taiwan, to spearhead national health system reforms, including the building of the Arnos Vale Acute Care Hospital and expanded efforts in combating noncommunicable diseases like diabetes.
Under his guidance, St. Vincent and the Grenadines achieved World Health Organization (WHO) certification for the dual elimination of mother-to-child transmission of HIV and syphilis; a milestone proving that steadfast policy and community commitment can yield world-class health outcomes. He also oversaw the successful retrofitting of the Georgetown Smart Health Centre, part of a UK-funded initiative to strengthen coastal healthcare facilities against disasters, while enhancing accessibility, environmental sustainability, and resilience.
Minister Prince has represented St. Vincent and the Grenadines at key regional and international fora, including the PAHO/WHO Directing Council and the CARICOM Council of Human and Social Development, advocating for stronger primary care systems, chronic disease policies, and responses to emerging health threats. He frequently emphasised that what St. Vincent and the Grenadines offers is “first-class healthcare in a third world country,” highlighting the government’s commitment to free, accessible, and high-quality medical services.
Despite vast responsibilities, Minister Prince remains grounded. Whether supporting farmers, walking the streets of Marriaqua, or listening to families and youth, he believes leadership must be lived and deeply felt. His values shine through everything he does, and his personal life reflects the same spirit of service.
Minister Prince stands as a living testament to effective leadership, inclusive progress, and transformative service. His story is not only about what he has achieved but about where Marriaqua, and indeed, the nation, can go next. With his experience, heart, and vision, he remains the steadfast choice to keep delivering for the people, with humility and purpose.
Delivering for Marriaqua
- Education Revolution – Expanded access through tuition support, scholarships and other training opportunities.
- Sports Facilities – Developed playing fields and sporting facilities at Evesham and Glenside. Ongoing work is being done with sport facilities in Cane-End and Richland Park.
- Infrastructure – Advanced major road construction and repairs in Richland Park, Mt. Pleasant, Freeland, Carriere, Akers, Sayers, Mapoo Hill, Hopewell-Maroon Hill, Montaque-Caruth, and Ginger Village.
- Health – Provision of accessible and affordable healthcare services (x-rays, ultrasounds, physiotherapy, etc) in Marriaqua.
- Community Development – Provision of a hub for civic life and public interaction through the newly constructed Civic Centre in Hopewell (opening soon).
Vision for Marriaqua
- Better Roads & Bridges – Rehabilitate other feeder roads throughout Marriaqua.
- Education – The strengthening of TVET across secondary schools and specialised facilities.
- Infrastructure – Construction of a Technical Institute.
- Support for Farmers – Deepened support for Marriaqua farmers through improved irrigation, better access to markets, and farm access roads.
- Empowerment – Upgrade and development of sporting fields and facilities, expand mentorship programme and technical training throughout Marriaqua.
- Community Development – Improve street lighting, enhance drainage systems, and invest in safer, more resilient infrastructure throughout the constituency.