Mrs. Abigail Rhoden

Jamaica

I am Mrs. Abigail Rhoden, a 26-year-old Jamaican who is passionate about policy writing, law and government. I have completed a Bachelor’s Degree in Law, with honors; I am currently pursuing a Master’s Degree in Public Policy.

I have mentored young at-risk girls at the RISE Life Management Services and I am a reader and writer at the Salvation Army School for the Blind and the Visually Impaired.

In November 2017, I was awarded the opportunity to serve my country as a Youth Member of Parliament for St. Catherine North Western, where I worked with youth in the constituency to advocate for youth and the marginalized. I also work with Youth Parliamentarians to develop and execute Justice Forums where youth receive the opportunity to address stakeholders regarding issues affecting in their communities. In the 2018 Youth Parliament Sitting, I addressed the nation on the underutilization of modern technology in crime prevention and crime fighting.
I have the privilege of working with the Caribbean Women Honors and Empowerment, St. Catherine Jamaica chapter, where we foster female empowerment through workshops, charity events and empowerment forums.

I am a member of the National Working group, in the Caribbean and Americas Committee of the Commonwealth Youth Council where I work with young people to carry out the Commonwealth Youth Council’s initiatives such as a Social Awareness Campaign on Gender Issues which includes gender-based violence.

I serve the Commonwealth Youth Peace Ambassador Network, Jamaica as the Partnership and Resources Coordinator. In my role, I develop strategic alliances with local and international stakeholders to discuss and create peace initiatives which positively impact youth.