Get to know the faces behind the ballots! Over the next few weeks, we’re bringing you an exclusive look at the Prince George’s County Council candidates. We asked each candidate eight essential questions about their vision and the local issues they are fighting for.

Meet Dr. Juliet Agocha: a mother, business owner, and dedicated advocate. Dr. Agocha brings a unique blend of lived experience and professional expertise to her run for County Council, District 4. In this Q&A, she shares her data-driven vision for affordable housing, small business growth, and youth empowerment, offering a transparent roadmap to build a more accountable and responsive government for every resident.

1. Vision: What is your primary motivation for running for local council, and what are your top three priorities for the district?
   
   My name is Dr. Juliet Agocha, and I am running for Prince George’s County Council, District 4. An 18-year resident, mother, and business owner, I understand our community’s potential and its struggles. In 2009, I experienced homelessness—a journey that fuels my passion for affordable housing, early education, and public safety. With a PhD in Leadership and over 10 years of governance experience, I’ve managed major initiatives for the World Bank and the USPS. I know how to make government systems work for families. I will bring honest, transparent leadership to Bowie, Greenbelt, and throughout District 4. Together, we can build a responsive government that is truly accountable to the people.
   
   
2. Economic Development: How do you plan to support local small businesses and entrepreneurs within Prince George’s County?
   
   I own a technology firm here in Prince George’s County, and I see every day how hard small business owners work just to survive. I know the stress of rising costs, slow permits, and long waits. As your councilwoman, I will launch a “Shop Local, Grow Local” program to help small businesses thrive:
   
   – I will partner with organizations like the Prince George’s County Economic Development Corporation for mentorship and low-interest loans to support our small businesses.
   – I will support our small business owners with $5K–$25K grants to help businesses stay open and grow.
   – I will work with landlords to fill vacant spaces with short-term, low-rent pop-ups so new ideas can test and grow.
   – I will build a strong ongoing relationship with the Department of Permitting, Inspections, and Enforcement (DPIE) to fast-track permits so businesses can open in weeks, not months.
   
   These practical steps will help small businesses succeed, create jobs, and make our county the first choice for families to live, work, and thrive.
   
   
3. Community Engagement: How will you ensure that the voices of all residents, especially those in underrepresented areas, are heard in the decision-making process?
   
   Leadership isn’t about sitting in an office—it’s about showing up. During the 2025 government shutdown, I partnered with local charities and faith leaders to provide food and health support to over 600 families. I saw firsthand the resilience of our neighbors and the need for a direct line to government. As your councilwoman, I will move beyond the office by holding monthly town halls in every neighborhood, conducting mobile surveys, and visiting community centers. Everyone deserves a seat at the table; I will ensure your voice is heard and your needs are prioritized.
   
   
4. Infrastructure & Services: What specific improvements do you advocate for regarding local infrastructure, public safety, or transit?
   
   As a mother, what I want for my children is what I want for yours—the opportunity to grow, succeed, and feel safe every single day. Our residents deserve streets they can drive on without dodging potholes, sidewalks that are well-lit at night, and public transportation they can actually rely on.
   
   As your councilwoman, I will:
   
   – Fix potholes faster and improve street lighting in our neighborhoods
   – Work closely with Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority to make buses more reliable—especially for seniors and working families who depend on them daily
   – Invest in youth programs and strengthen neighborhood policing so we prevent problems before they start
   
   I am committed to delivering the basic services that allow our families to travel and live without fear or frustration.
   
   
5. Sustainability: What steps should the council take to promote environmental sustainability and green spaces in our community?
   
   Our neighborhoods deserve to be beautiful, healthy, and safe for our families. As your councilwoman, I will plant more trees, protect spaces like Watkins Regional Park, and expand access to solar programs so families can lower their energy bills and keep more money in their pockets. But we can’t do this alone—I will partner with local organizations like Prince George’s County Department of the Environment and Anacostia Watershed Society to lead tree planting, clean water initiatives, and community cleanups. Together, we can bring real change block by block.
   
   I will also push for better recycling access in apartments, cleaner streets, and more walkable sidewalks—because these aren’t luxuries. They’re the basics every family deserves in our community so they can truly thrive.
   
   
6. Youth & Education: How can the council better support local youth programs and educational initiatives outside of the school system?
   
   I am an academic mentor at American Public University, and in that role, I’ve worked closely with young people—guiding them, listening to them, and helping them believe in their potential. I am a first-generation graduate in my family, I have my PhD in leadership, and I know firsthand that education can change the entire direction of a life. Sometimes, all it takes is one mentor, one opportunity, or one person who believes in you.
   
   I will support our youth by championing programs and educational initiatives outside of the school system by investing in after-school programs that give our youth real options—such as coding, AI training, trade skills, and mentorship. I will partner with organizations like Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Washington and local non-profits to expand access to safe spaces where teens can learn, grow, and prepare for their futures. Because every parent deserves to see their child succeed—and every young person deserves a clear path forward, not a dead-end.
   
   
7. Legacy: What is one specific project or policy you hope to be remembered for at the end of your term?
   
   My father was a public servant who dedicated his life to serving his community. My mother opened her heart and home—adopting children so others could have a voice and a chance at a better life. That is the foundation I come from. Today, I continue that legacy of service. I founded OneVoice EmpowerHer, where I support women from diverse backgrounds, including survivors of domestic violence. I am also a founding member of the Christian Chamber of Commerce DMV, helping small businesses grow, and I serve as Vice Chair of the Policy Council for early childhood education at the Lourie Center, where I help families navigate everyday challenges.
   
   For me, legacy isn’t about titles—it’s about impact—how many lives you touch and how much stronger your community becomes because you showed up. I want to be remembered for passing a Family Stability and Neighborhood Revitalization Policy—a bold initiative that expands affordable housing, supports small businesses, and invests in safe, thriving communities.
   
   
8. Fun Fact: What is your favorite local spot in Prince George’s County to relax or grab a meal?
   
   When I’m not serving in the community, I’m usually in the kitchen cooking for my family—just doing my everyday “mom” thing. I also love spending time with my 76-year-old mother, listening to her stories and the wisdom she shares. Those simple moments mean everything to me.