Melissa Poponne Skerrit
Melissa Poponne Skerrit is a Dominica politician, social advocate, and the current Minister for Housing and Urban Development. She represents the Roseau Central constituency in the House of Assembly and is a senior member of the Dominica Labour Party (DLP). Married to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit since 2013, Melissa Skerrit has become an influential figure in her own right through her work in national governance, housing reform, and community-focused philanthropy.
Early Life and Family
Born on May 14, 1981, Melissa Skerrit hails from a well-established Dominican family. Her father, Valentine Poponne, is a known businessman. She was raised with a strong emphasis on civic responsibility and compassion—values that would later define her political and philanthropic path. She is married to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and is the mother of two children, Dmitry and Isabela. Melissa has balanced her public duties with her private roles as a wife, mother, and active member of the community.
Political Career and Public Office
Melissa Skerrit entered electoral politics during the 2019 general elections, contesting the Roseau Central constituency—a long-time opposition stronghold. Her victory marked a significant political shift, making her the first DLP candidate to win the seat in over 40 years. Her platform centered on community revitalization, affordable housing, youth development, and urban regeneration.
Following her electoral win, she was appointed as Minister for Housing and Urban Development, a position through which she directs key national initiatives in housing delivery, land use planning, and urban infrastructure development. Under her leadership, the ministry has advanced resilient housing projects and community-oriented redevelopment schemes aligned with Dominica’s National Resilience Development Strategy 2030.
Legislative Responsibilities
As a Member of Parliament, she is tasked with:
- Representing the interests of Roseau Central residents in national debates.
- Contributing to housing policy, land regulation, and urban development legislation.
- Engaging in parliamentary oversight of key infrastructure and housing projects.
Philanthropic Work and Foundation Initiatives
Prior to and alongside her political career, Melissa Skerrit has been recognized for her strong philanthropic engagement. In December 2016, she launched the Melissa Skerrit Foundation, with a mission to alleviate poverty and improve wellness, education, and livelihoods for underprivileged communities across Dominica.
Her foundation runs several notable initiatives:
Education and Youth Support
- Adopt-a-Child Back-to-School Program: Distributes backpacks, books, and school essentials to hundreds of children annually.
- Scholarships and tutoring support for students facing economic hardship.
Support for Vulnerable Groups
- Single Mothers Program: Offers mentorship, financial support, and empowerment activities to women raising children independently.
- Elderly Care Program: Provides food assistance, home visits, and social activities for seniors in urban and rural settings.
Resilience and Empowerment
- Hurricane Preparedness Drive: Focuses on disaster readiness in flood-prone communities.
- Women’s Symposium: Hosts workshops and panels that support women in leadership, entrepreneurship, and civic participation.
These grassroots initiatives have earned her broad support, particularly among women and youth, and have cemented her image as an accessible and empathetic leader.
Public Image and Approach to Leadership
Melissa Skerrit is often described as a dynamic and compassionate leader who emphasizes people-centered policies. She has stated publicly that her decision to enter frontline politics was guided by what she called a “divine calling to serve.” Her vision of leadership focuses on inclusion, empowerment, and the belief that government has a responsibility to uplift those most in need.
She continues to prioritize:
- Affordable housing and property ownership for single-parent families.
- Youth mentorship and access to opportunity through education and sports.
- Accessible healthcare and community safety for urban neighborhoods.
Through social media and public engagement events, she maintains active dialogue with constituents, especially youth, and encourages their involvement in shaping Dominica’s future.