Brenda Victoria Fernandes is the first-time Conservative Party candidate for the ward of Gorse Hill & Pinehurst in the local Borough elections in Swindon on May 4.
BACKGROUND
Brenda was born in Goa, and lived there until the age of 12, before she and her family moved to the UK.
“I have very fond memories of growing up in my home town Siridao. My parents have taught me to value and stay rooted in our Goan culture and traditions,” said Brenda.
“I studied my primary school years in the Siridao village school and then went to Mary Immaculate Girls High school in Panaji. After moving to the UK, I completed my secondary education at Churchfields School and then studied Media and Business studies at New College, Swindon.”
“I currently work as a Project Manager at a Software Asset Management company called Livingstone Technologies Limited in Reading, Berkshire.”
PURPOSE
When asked to explain the purpose of contesting polls, Brenda said she was delighted to have the opportunity to put herself forward as a Conservative candidate for local elections in the Ward of Gorse Hill & Pinehurst.
“My family and I have lived in Swindon for the last 20 years. This town is very important to me, and I would like the opportunity to ensure the views and issues of locals are represented and fed into the decisions taken by the council,” said Brenda.
“My hope is also to inspire the younger generation of Goans to come forward and consider standing for public office. Swindon is one of the most densely populated towns in the UK with our people, it is only right that we work together to build and protect the community and town we live in.”
“Following my nomination, it is clear that there are a number of issues in Gorse & Pinehurst that I would like to take on if elected. My purpose is to support our local businesses, backing local community groups, charities and sports groups to secure facilities and grants, working with local partners including the police, highways officers and health groups to create a safe environment for families to live in and organising regular community clean up sessions.”
FOCUS
Asked to justify why she would be the ideal candidate, Brenda admitted that she has much less experience than many existing councillors and candidates, but was confident that she would bring her own youthful perspective and work alongside those with experience who have previously served as councillors in our community.
“I believe you can only truly represent an area that you live in, care for and are passionate about. I recognise that, of course, I have much less experience than many existing councillors and candidates. But if I were elected, I would be working alongside others - bringing my own youthful perspective alongside the experiences and inputs offered by those who have previously served as councillors in our community,” explained Brenda.
“That's the benefit of having a wider team: we can all collectively contribute. I look forward to meeting the voters and listening to their views over the coming days leading to the elections on May 4.”
“My focus is to listen and prioritise the issues that most affect the day-to-day lives of the residents. And my promise to constituents is that when they come to me with problems, I will ensure to take them forward to the council to work together to find a solution,” she added.
