The People’s National Party has announced the appointment of Shameel Brown as the new chairman of the OT Fairclough Trust Fund Grants Board.

Brown succeeds outgoing Chairman Richard Azan, MP, who, according to the PNP, has dutifully served the board in advancing its mandate of providing opportunities for party workers.

Brown is a dynamic and results-oriented professional with a proven record of service in political administration, project coordination, and community development. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Sociology and Social Policy (Honours) from the University of the West Indies and is presently pursuing a Master’s Degree in International Public and Development Management at UWI.

In addition to her professional portfolio, Brown is the chairman of the PNP Welfare Commission and a Vice President of the PNP Youth Organisation. She is passionate about mentorship, youth outreach, and national development, and brings this vision to her new role as chairman.

The OTF Grants Board has already undertaken its scholarship distribution exercise for 2025, in which dozens of students across Jamaica have received financial support to pursue their studies. This initiative demonstrates the OTF’s ongoing commitment to empowering families and breaking down barriers to education.

The Board also comprises representatives from the party’s regions and affiliates, including Karen Hinds Spencer for Region One, Saneika Kelly for Region Two, Karl Kirkland for Region Three, Patricia Harris for Region Four, Verna Manning for Region Five, and Colin Hitchman for Region Six. It also includes Sheina-Gay Richards of the PNPYO, Rev Paul Blake of the Patriots, Tiara Murray of the PNP Women’s Movement, Granville Valentine of the National Workers Union, and Councillor Keisha Lewis representing the Councillor Caucus.

The OTF thanked its outgoing leadership and expressed confidence that under Brown’s guidance, the Grants Board will usher in a new era of growth and service.