THE CITIZENS Action for Free and Fair Elections (CAFFE) again staged a successful observer mission during last year's general elections, covering polling divisions in all constituencies.
The mission was covered by a team of professional volunteers who came forward to play their part in deepening the democratic process. Among the volunteers was a 92-year-old citizen from Kingston, Mrs. Minalva Jean Ellis.
"I came forward to assist when I heard the CAFFE appeal, and the Chairman Dr. Lloyd Barnett assured me there were no age limits although he was a bit concerned about my ability to cope with the requirements for a volunteer," Mrs. Ellis said.
The senior citizen took up the challenge, attending training sessions, and getting prepared to be a first-rate election observer.
It rained heavily on Election Day 2002 but Mrs. Ellis ventured out to fulfil her commitment to CAFFE.
"Amidst the rain, some bad reports from at least one polling station and a few other little problems, I believe things went well. It was a pleasant day and I was especially pleased to see people co-operating and working together for the good of their country," she said.
The 92-year-old has no regrets about volunteering and actually encourages others to try it next time. She believes that as simple as some things may seem, it can benefit everyone in the future. Mrs. Ellis says volunteering is a positive development for the electoral process and the country at large.
A retired teacher, Mrs. Ellis was born in Albert Town, Trelawny in 1910, where she attended the Albert Town Elementary School. She was trained at the St. Joseph's Teachers College in Kingston but returned home to Trelawny to teach at her old school, eventually becoming the acting principal.
Mrs. Ellis also taught at the Troy School before relocating and settling in Kingston where she served the Trench Town High School for almost 20 years.
The energetic senior citizen says she participates in several community-related activities and is a very active member at her church, St. Phillips. She proudly states that she still sings on the choir and is a member of the prayer group and the Mother's Union. She is also a member of the Retired Teachers Association, and despite her schedule still finds time to assist children from her community with their school work.
I really enjoy what I am doing and my latest work as a CAFFE volunteer is just another chapter in my lifetime of service to Jamaica."
