Our island has experienced huge changes for some time now, and I have seen first-hand how large parts of the community have been affected.
High rents causing homelessness, inability to innovate or start businesses, inability to purchase housing or spend money into the economy therefore supporting ‘the local high street’
Inefficient government processes causing bottle necking, frustration for those in the most need, feelings of distrust and hopelessness which leads to disassociation and voter apathy.
We need, now more than ever, a system which is empathetic and progressive, works for the residents of this island, is efficient and proactive.
Manifesto
Empathy & The Need for Change
Our island has experienced huge changes, and I have experienced firsthand how large parts of the community have been negatively affected.
High rents have caused homelessness, the inability to innovate or start businesses, purchase housing, or support the economy by spending money in local businesses.
Inefficient government processes can cause bottlenecking, leading to frustration for those in the most need as well as feelings of distrust, political disassociation and voter apathy.
Now more than ever, we need a States which is empathetic and progressive, with deputies who work together to solve our problems in the best interests of all islanders.
About Me
My name is Sofi Noakes, I’m 36 and I want to make the world better for the people around me. I have been a hospitality professional most of my adult life spanning 16 years, 9 of which have been spent in Guernsey.
I have worked in a number of local establishments (Duke of Richmond, Octopus, and the Bella Luce) and as a board member of a local charity that delivered aid to Ukraine following the Russian invasion.
I own a small cafe in the Commercial Arcade called ‘The Bean Jar’ - a place which serves a purpose beyond coffee and cake, a community hub where all are welcome. Through this I have made many connections with community, and it is the stories of problems they are facing that have motivated me to stand.
Why me?
Without significant prompting, my inner circle have described me as a hardworking and relentless person with a warm heart, all of which are traits I believe are necessary to be a good deputy.
The through-line of my career has been forming deep connections with others and ensuring that great things are achieved by working as a team, whatever my role within it. The previous States has struggled to work across its political divides, and I believe that I would be well-equipped to avoid that trap should I be elected.
This has driven home to me that one approach does not fit all circumstances or people. Some need a firm approach and a thick skin, others benefit from more flexibility and a kind word.
I am confident that I can put these skills to good use as a People’s Deputy, listening to and working with other deputies to find practical solutions to the difficulties facing our island. We all want what is best for Guernsey and we don’t need to agree on everything in order to work together.
Forward Guernsey the change we want to see
So why a party? And Why Forward Guernsey?
I believe in the vision of building a better future for all Guernsey residents and that it is achievable through our six key areas. As a party with a medley of experiences, personalities, and values, we will be able to work together closely to incubate ideas and bring more fully-formed proposals to the States than if we stood as individuals.
I appreciate that there is no history of effective political parties in Guernsey, however, I believe that that there is strength in numbers and that a diversity of experiences and thought processes will lead to a more effective government. It will enable us to look at complex solutions from different perspectives, coming up with innovative solutions to entrenched problems.
My Promise
This island is my home; I have found love, friendship, and purpose here. Without these connections life means little. I have watched almost all of my closest friends and family experience a variety of hardships and despite the best of efforts and through no fault of their own, none have found way out.
People need homes, support, to be represented and for their government to actually care about the wider impact of their decisions, what they are doing when they make long lasting commitments which affect their lives.
This is why I chose to stand - for those who cannot do so and for those of you do not feel heard.
If elected, I promise to listen to all stakeholders and work diligently to find solutions that are in the best interest of all islanders.
It is now our responsibility to make BOLD, STRONG & HONOURABLE decisions.
My personal areas of interest are:
Housing: secure, affordable housing is a necessity, it should not be a privilege!
Mental Health Care: especially for men, which is often trivialised or outright ignored.
LGBTQ+ Rights: discrimination must have no place on our island.
Growth of the Tourism Sector: strengthens the local economy.
Hospitality Regulation/Worker Rights: workers are often afraid to speak up.
“Making bright and bold decisions for the betterment of the community and island at large”