Rosemarie Francis, 31, cosmetologist

I am looking for more job opportunities for the youth in Jamaica. I would also love for the crime rate to go down, even though I have wanted that for years.

The Government also needs to unite. Too much argument in Parliament over issues that I believe to be a waste of time. My expectation for myself is to expand my salon to create job opportunities for the members of my community. A money mi seh fi di New Year!

Michelle Reid, 22, cashier

I would like to see the men stop the kidnapping and molestation of the youngsters and the females.

I want the Government to get a lot more plain-clothes police officers on the road to try to reduce the number of robbing incidents. For me, I wish to further my education and become a valuable asset to my country.

Nadine Cousins, 32, Businesswoman

I want to see the people dem cut out the violence in the country! Let the children feel free to walk the streets again and don't bother with this foolish abduction thing.

This year was a hard year for us as Jamaicans and the world also, but I hope it will get better in the New Year. I know the world is in an economic crisis, but I would like the Government to do something to cushion the effect on the average Jamaicans.

Okeito Robinson, 26, warehouse manager

I want things to get better for the country and the citizens. I'd like to see things cheaper, like food items and the various necessities. Mi a try fi start a little business for myself, but I know it's not going to be easy.

We have to take it one step at a time. For the upcoming year, I need to start seriously working to achieve my goals. The Government needs to do a lot. I believe it can!

- Text/photos by Laranzo Dacres