Janataka Hughley-Holmes: A Legacy of Leadership
Upward and Forward. Together.
A Servant Leader with Deep Roots in Opelika
Janataka Hughley-Holmes embodies the values, experience, and vision that make her an outstanding candidate for Opelika City Council – Ward 2. A lifelong resident and longtime advocate, she has consistently shown up for youth, families, and underserved neighborhoods—turning compassion into action. As the Opelika Clubhouse Director for the Boys & Girls Clubs of East Alabama, Janataka works daily to uplift young people through mentorship, academic support, and leadership development. Her deep relationships across Ward 2 give her firsthand knowledge of the challenges many families face—from education access to housing insecurity to neighborhood safety.
Real Results: Advocacy That Delivers
Janataka doesn’t just identify problems—she organizes people and pushes for solutions. In 2020, she co-led a community study on pedestrian safety, focusing on high-traffic areas in Wards 1 and 2. After presenting her findings to city officials and engineers, the City of Opelika implemented crosswalks in both The Jeter and Carver communities in 2021. This success showcases Janataka’s ability to lead with strategy and collaboration—qualities she’ll bring to City Council.
Champion for Inclusion and Public Health
Inspired by her son’s journey with epilepsy, Janataka founded Compassionate Hands of Hope, Inc., a nonprofit promoting awareness, advocacy, and education. Her Glow for Epilepsy campaign brings together first responders, educators, and families to create a more inclusive, prepared community. At the "2022 Glow for Epilepsy on the Square" event, her advocacy ignited the launch of the S.A.F.E.R. Program facilitated by the Opelika Police Department, a first-of-its-kind resource for residents with special needs—demonstrating her policy impact and commitment to accessibility.
Building Unity and Civic Engagement
From co-organizing Opelika’s Juneteenth march to leading citywide initiatives, Janataka has a gift for building coalitions.
She currently serves as:
🟪 Chair of the Opelika Chamber 20 Under 40 Leadership Program (2024–25)
🟪 Board Member, Opelika Character Council
🟪 President, Lee County Voters League & Youth Organization
🟪 Community partner and collaborator across city departments and nonprofits
Her leadership is marked by service—not status.
Why She’s Running for City Council – Ward 2
Janataka Hughley-Holmes is stepping into this campaign because the work she’s done on the ground needs a seat at the table. Ward 2 deserves a representative who already knows its challenges—and is ready to fight for its future. This campaign is about equity, access, and shared progress. It’s about continuing the work, together. Let’s move Upward and Forward—with Janataka Hughley-Holmes for Opelika City Council, Ward 2.
