Sylvanie Burton

Sylvanie Burton was born in the village of Salybia in the Kalinago Territory, Dominica, in 1956. She pursued her primary education in her native village and later attended the Dominica Grammar School. Burton furthered her education by earning a bachelor’s degree in rural development from St. Francis Xavier University in Canada and a master’s degree in project management from the University of Manchester, England. She is married with two children.

Sylvanie Burton Career in Public Service

Sylvanie Burton‘s career in public service spans several decades. Since 2014, she has served as permanent secretary in various ministries, including the Ministry of Culture, Youth, Sports & Community Development, Ministry of Environment, Rural Modernization, Kalinago Upliftment, and Constituency Empowerment, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Trade, and Energy. She also held the position of Development Officer in the Ministry of Kalinago Affairs.

Her work has significantly impacted land management and community development, particularly through her roles in the Lands and Surveys Division. Burton’s dedication to public service is evident through her numerous contributions, particularly in addressing the needs of the Kalinago community and promoting sustainable development in Dominica.

Sylvanie Burton’s Presidency

In September 2023, Sylvanie Burton made history by being elected as the first female and indigenous President of the Commonwealth of Dominica. Nominated by the Dominica Labour Party (DLP) government led by Roosevelt Skerrit, her election followed a parliamentary vote after the opposition leader, Jesma Paul Victor, initially rejected her nomination.

As President, Burton’s administration focuses on climate resilience, addressing the impacts of natural disasters such as Hurricane Maria and Hurricane David. Her government supports the Housing Revolution Programme, which aims to provide safe and affordable housing for all Dominicans, funded through the Citizenship by Investment (CBI) program.

Burton champions gender equality and women’s empowerment, emphasizing the importance of female representation in leadership roles. Her advocacy extends to the Kalinago Territory, ensuring the voices and needs of the indigenous community are addressed in national policies.

Legacy and Impact

Sylvanie Burton’s tenure as President of Dominica is expected to leave a lasting impact on the country. Her leadership and vision for a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable Dominica resonate with the aspirations of many Dominicans. Burton’s role as a trailblazer for women and indigenous people in politics continues to inspire future generations, reflecting her commitment to justice, equality, and development.