Ms. Heather Bodden, OCI, Cert. Hon., JP
elected mp for Savannah
“As a child my father told his children to ‘be honest, work hard and do good while you can’. That is what has guided my life. I have always had a passion for community service and being the elected member for Savannah will provide the opportunity for me to do the most good for my community and by extension my country.” – Heather Bodden
Background
Heather Bodden’s life is characterised by service and dedication to community and country. Born to Mary Bodden and the late Jay Bodden in George Town and raised in the Savannah/Newlands area, Heather – affectionately known as YaYa – has committed her life to helping others and working (sometimes fighting) for the betterment of all residents in her district.
An activist and organiser, Heather has been called the ‘face, heart and soul’ of the Savannah and Newlands communities. She also served as a Bodden Town Member of the Legislative Assembly from 1995 until 2000. During her tenure in Government, she brought the motions for establishing handicap parking and creating a safe house for battered and abused women and children island wide, which is known today as the Crisis Centre. She also worked to strengthen the litter laws and contributed to many other important initiatives.
Accomplishments
Although she is not motivated by applause or accolades, the government and the people of the Cayman Islands have recognised Heather over the years for her selfless acts of love, kindness and service and rewarded her tireless efforts. In 2006 she was awarded the Certificate of Honour by H.M. Queen Elizabeth II. Most recently, she was awarded the Order of the Cayman Islands insignia at the 2021 National Heroes Day celebration for her devotion to sustained and selfless voluntary service within the community. Some of the projects, committees, roles and initiatives which she has led, held or participated in are highlighted below.
Justice of the Peace – 13 years
Savannah and Newlands Community Development Action Committee (SAV-NEW CoDAC) – Chairperson for past 26 years
International College of the Cayman Islands Board of Trustees – Member for 18 years
Cayman Islands International Fishing Tournament (formerly Million Dollar Month) – Volunteer for 37 years
Home Repair Association Board – Member
Miss Cayman Universe Committee – Member for 25 years
Leo's Miss Teen Cayman Committee – Member for 25 years
Cayman Islands Beautification Committee – Member for 20 years
Young Caymanian Leadership Award (YCLA) Committee – Honorary Member for 20 years
Organising the Annual Senior Citizens Christmas Party (29 years and counting!)
Managing and maintaining the Savannah and Newlands playfield
Organising the Savannah & Newlands Pirates Week Heritage Day
Coordinating participation in the annual Earth Day Clean Up events
Successfully lobbying for more recycling bins in the community
Spearheading community beautification projects
Organising food and clothing drives
Organising the activities for the Older Persons Month celebration and all transportation for the senior citizens
Managing neighbourhood watch programmes and liaising with the community police officers and patrols to increase safety and security
Hosting a monthly senior citizens’ breakfast
Hosting the annual Jayson Avenue Children’s Halloween Party for the past 24 years
Upcoming Events
Upcoming online and in person events