Patrick Faber (politician)

Patrick Jason Faber (born 21 March 1978) is a Belizean politician. He is currently the Minister of Education, Youth Sports and Culture. He is also the Deputy Prime Minister^[1] and deputy party leader of the UDP in Belize.^[2][3][4]

Early life and education

Faber was born in Belize City, Belize. He received a Bachelor of Arts in Economics in 1998 from Valdosta State University in Valdosta, Georgia, as well as a Master's in Educational Leadership from the University of North Florida^[5] in 2003. He is currently working on a Doctor of Public Administration degree from Valdosta State University.

Political career

Faber has been a member of the United Democratic Party of Belize since he worked as a street campaigner at the age of 14. He has since served as youth director, member of the party's central executive, and candidate for the Belize City Council. In 2010, at the National Convention of the United Democratic Party, he was elected overwhelmingly to the role of Party Chairman.

Faber is currently one of the youngest members of the Belizean House of Representatives and the Cabinet of Prime Minister Dean Barrow. According to Belizean media, public confidence in Faber, the Ministry of Education and its restructuring has been positive. Consequently, Sir Colville Young, the Governor General of Belize, entrusted Faber with also running the Ministry of Youth. Faber has even served occasionally as acting prime minister, being responsible for running the affairs of state when the Prime Minister and Deputy Prime Minister are out of the country.^[6]

Despite recent political difficulties, Faber is widely expected to succeed Barrow as prime minister and lead the UDP at the next general election after Barrow's retirement, which will occur no later than the end of 2019.^[7]

Personal life

Faber is divorced and has two sons, Krischnan (2005) and Patrick Jr (2008).

References