At 33 years old, Dale Rowe represents a new generation stepping into Barbadian politics – one that understands firsthand the frustrations of young voters who feel left behind by traditional representation.
As the Democratic Labour Party (DLP) candidate for The City of Bridgetown in the February 11 election, Rowe is making his first run for political office with a message centred on empowerment and genuine community engagement.
“I approach young people from a standpoint of putting myself in their shoes,” Rowe explained, addressing the elephant in the room: voter apathy among Barbados’ youth.
“I understand the frustration in The City as it relates to ‘I don’t feel like voting because people don’t represent’.”
It’s precisely this disconnect that Rowe aims to bridge. Rather than dismiss disengaged voters, he sees their scepticism as justified – and himself as proof that change is possible.
Rowe’s motivation for entering politics stems from deeply personal roots. Raised by a single mother who struggled to make ends meet, he lived the challenges facing Barbadian families.
“I told myself that I have to become a positive role model.”
That commitment extends beyond rhetoric. “For me, politics is not about political gain or political advantage. I believe politics should be for people and to empower our people. And that is my journey, straight empowerment,” he insisted.
As a first-time candidate, Rowe acknowledged the value of guidance from experienced political figures.
Sharing of knowledge
“All the persons that came before me, the Honourable Ralph Thorne, Stephen Lashley, Donville Inniss. There are so many that I can’t call right now. A lot of the older candidates shared a lot of knowledge and showed a lot of love and have embraced me,” he said.
Out on the campaign trail, Rowe has identified several key concerns echoing throughout Bridgetown, and housing tops the list, followed closely by employment – but not just any jobs.
“Persons want opportunities as it relates to permanent jobs, not the three or six-month contracts,” he said.
The distinction matters more than many realise, he explained, as short-term contracts don’t just create financial instability; they lock workers out of basic economic participation.
“They cannot get a mortgage. They can’t qualify to get even a car loan because you have to be working for a minimum of $2 000 a month before you can qualify to get any financing from a bank,” explained the financial advisor and community builder.
Young people, he noted, are particularly vocal about wanting opportunities beyond employment – sporting activities including football, cricket, athletics, and tennis. It’s about creating a holistic community environment, not just economic survival.
Crime also ranks high among constituent concerns. But Rowe’s approach highlights collective responsibility over Government-only solutions.
“The Government alone can’t reduce crime. We as a people have to . . . come together,” he said.
What sets Rowe apart in his pitch to voters is his definition of representation itself.
“Persons throughout The City, their number one concern is representation. They don’t want a person that just come, get a vote, go into the House of Assembly and that is that.” ( DDS)
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