Figuratively, the word 'grassroots' has come to mean 'down-to-earth,' 'folksy' and 'ordinary' in Vencentian idiom. The definition applies to the Honourable Minister of Transportation and Works, Clifton Clayton Fitzroy Burgin.

Clayton Burgin is a true son of the soul, born, raised and still living in the East Saint George Village of Choppins.
A man of humble origins, Clayton Burgin obtained his primary education at the Brighton Methodist School. A gifted student, Burgin was successful at the School Leaving Examinations and opted for a career in teaching, beginning his career at his alma mater, Brighton Methodist School where he taught for 15 years. He obtained a Certificate of Teacher Education from the SVG Teachers' College/UWI, a Certificate in Adult Education from UWI School of Continuing Studies, Cave Hill and he completed a Masters of Education degree from the prestigious University of Manchester, England.

Clayton Burgin has dedicated his life to adult education, the environment and rural development. He has given of his time, volunteering with organizations like the Caribbean Network for Integrated Rural Development and the JEMS Progressive Organization. These organizations are aimed at creating economic opportunity in rural areas of St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

In the field of Adult Education, the work done by Clayton Burgin has helped turn our illiteracy rate around. Today, more Vincentians can read and write than ever before in our history.

As a member of the ULP Government Team, Clayton Burgin and his colleagues were responsible for ushering in the Education Revolution in St. Vincent and the Grenadines. Thanks to the work of Mr. Burgin, there is now universal access to secondary education to all children of secondary school age in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.

Minister Burgin now serves as the Minister of Transport and Works. In this capacity, he's delivered for all of St. Vincent and the Grenadines, including East St. George.

Mr. Clayton lives quietly with his family in the Choppins.