Elizabeth Olufemi is a dedicated healthcare professional, disaster relief advocate, and community leader running for Lake Jackson City Council. With a background in healthcare administration, FEMA case management, and public safety, she has spent her career serving others. Her leadership is rooted in service, shaped by experiences such as helping families rebuild after Hurricane Harvey. Olufemi is committed to strengthening healthcare support for seniors and the disabled, fostering small business growth, enhancing public safety, and improving infrastructure. Not a career politician, but a community advocate, Olufemi envisions a thriving Lake Jackson where businesses flourish, families feel secure, and every resident’s voice is valued. Her campaign is a call to action for progress, transparency, and proactive leadership.
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Inspiration behind my career path

Our community is built on resilience, and I have seen it firsthand. I remember helping families rebuild their lives after Hurricane Harvey. When disaster struck, I stood with my neighbors, ensuring that those who lost everything had a chance to rebuild. As a case manager with FEMA, I reviewed applications, scheduled inspections, and made sure relief reached the people who needed it most. That experience taught me something valuable: leadership is not about power; it’s about service.

How My Background in Healthcare, Disaster Relief, and Public Service Shaped My Approach to Leadership
My background has shaped me into a leader who is practical, compassionate, and driven by results. Working in healthcare, I’ve seen firsthand how vulnerable our elderly and disabled residents can be and the importance of policies that prioritize their well-being. As a FEMA case manager, I worked on the frontlines of disaster relief, ensuring that families received the support they needed after losing everything. My experience in public service has taught me that strong communities are built when leadership is proactive, responsive, and deeply connected to the people it serves.

Policies to Improve the Quality of Life for Seniors and Individuals with Disabilities

We need policies that ensure our aging and disabled residents are not just cared for but valued. To achieve this, I will advocate for expanding community health initiatives to improve access to quality care, ensuring that everyone can receive the support they need. Strengthening support systems for caregivers is also crucial, as it is important to ensure they have the resources to provide compassionate care. Additionally, I will work to enhance accessibility in public spaces and transportation, allowing seniors and individuals with disabilities to maintain their independence. Lastly, I will focus on partnering with healthcare providers to bring mobile clinics and wellness programs to underserved communities, making healthcare more accessible for all.

Navigating the challenges of being a Black Woman in Politics

Being a Black woman in politics comes with unique challenges, breaking through biases, proving my credibility in spaces where people may not expect to see someone like me, and ensuring my voice is heard. I navigate these challenges with resilience, authenticity, and a commitment to my values. My experiences have taught me that the best way to overcome barriers is to stay focused, work harder, and let my results speak for themselves. I refuse to be limited by stereotypes. I lead with integrity and a relentless drive to serve my community.

Economic Growth and Small Business Support

As a former small business owner, I understand the struggles of entrepreneurs. To empower local entrepreneurs, I will introduce initiatives such as providing small business grants and low-interest loans to offer financial assistance to new and existing businesses, encouraging their growth. Additionally, I will establish business incubators and mentorship programs, connecting entrepreneurs with industry experts and resources to help them succeed. Streamlining business permits and regulations will be a priority, cutting through red tape to make it easier to start and grow a business in Lake Jackson. Finally, I will launch “Buy Local” campaigns to encourage residents to support locally owned businesses, thereby boosting our local economy.

Three Women Who Inspired and Influenced Elizabeth’s  Journey

My mother has been a profound influence on my life. She instilled in me the values of resilience, hard work, and service, teaching me that no challenge is too great when you are committed to your purpose. Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress, also inspires me. She paved the way for women like me to step into leadership with confidence and a commitment to justice. Lastly, Bessie Coleman broke barriers as the first African American and Native American woman to earn a pilot’s license. Her determination to overcome racial and gender obstacles in the early 20th century exemplifies courage and ambition. Coleman’s legacy inspires me to challenge limitations and pursue my goals with unwavering resolve.
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Strategies for Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness

Having worked with FEMA and experienced disaster recovery firsthand, I know that preparation is key. I would implement stronger emergency response plans to ensure clear protocols for hurricanes, floods, and other disasters. Additionally, I would invest in increased training for first responders, providing advanced training and equipment for police, firefighters, and emergency personnel. Community-wide disaster drills would be a priority, educating residents on how to respond in crisis situations to minimize risk. Lastly, I would work to improve communication systems by establishing an emergency alert system that provides real-time updates to residents.

Legacy for the Next Generation of Women Leaders

I want to leave a legacy of empowerment, resilience, and service. I hope to inspire young women to step into leadership, knowing that their voices matter. I want them to see that leadership is not reserved for a select few, it is for anyone willing to serve, work hard, and stand up for what is right. My goal is to break down barriers and create opportunities for future generations to lead with confidence and purpose.

Being a Woman of Rubies

I am a Woman of Rubies because my journey has been one of perseverance, service, and transformation. From healthcare to disaster relief to public service, I have dedicated my life to uplifting others. My strength comes from my ability to turn challenges into opportunities, my impact is seen in the lives I have touched, and my resilience is what drives me to keep pushing forward no matter the obstacles.

Advice for Black Women Aspiring to Enter Politics or Leadership Roles

To every Black woman dreaming of stepping into leadership: I see you. I know the doubts and challenges, but know this; you belong. Work twice as hard, but don’t let it break you. Own your story; it’s your superpower. Be unapologetic about your ambition, even when others question it. Build a support system that sees you and reminds you of your strength. Embrace the hard days, they shape you into the leader you’re meant to be. Remember, you are more than enough. Step in, stand tall and take up space. Change the conversation when you get there.
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