Wonder Woman of the Week: Lisa Hanna

Born in Mandeville, Jamaica, Lisa Hanna grew up in a family that encouraged ambition, education, and service. From an early age, she developed an interest in communication and the performing arts, eventually studying at the University of the West Indies, where she pursued studies in communication. Her journey also took her beyond Jamaica, giving her experiences that broadened her perspective on leadership and public life. Long before entering politics, Hanna became a familiar face to Jamaicans, establishing herself as a model, television personality, and beauty queen.

In 1993, Hanna captured international attention when she was crowned Miss World, becoming the third Jamaican woman to win the prestigious title. The achievement opened doors in entertainment and broadcasting, where she worked as a television presenter and developed a reputation as a confident communicator. Yet her ambitions extended beyond the spotlight. In 2007, she entered Jamaican politics as a candidate for the People's National Party and was elected Member of Parliament for St. Ann South East, beginning a new chapter centered on public service.

During her political career, Hanna served as Minister of Youth and Culture, where she championed initiatives focused on young Jamaicans, education, culture, and national development. Her political work reflected a belief that Jamaica's young people should have opportunities to shape their country's future. She also became known for speaking about women's empowerment and the importance of creating pathways for young people to discover their talents and build productive lives.

For many young women and girls, Hanna's story represents the possibility of crossing boundaries that society can place around ambition. She moved from the worlds of beauty and entertainment into elected office, demonstrating that success in one field does not have to define the limits of a woman's future. Her career offers a powerful lesson in confidence, resilience, and public service: leadership can take many forms, and young women can claim space in arenas where their voices have not always been heard. Through her example, Lisa Hanna continues to embody a distinctly Jamaican message—that ambition, when joined with purpose, can become a force for change.