Vaughan Gething, elected as Welsh Labour’s new leader, becomes Europe’s first Black national leader. With a Welsh father and Zambian mother, Gething feels deeply honored by this historic achievement.
Vaughan Gething, the son of a Welsh vet and a Zambian farmer, faced racism in Britain, which ignited his passion for justice and motivated him to join the Labour Party at 17. He attended Aberystwyth and Cardiff universities, becoming NUS Wales’ first black president, and later worked as a trade union lawyer.
Vaughan Gething has served notably as Wales’ health and economy minister. Despite facing challenges like Covid criticism and ‘chipgate’, he stays committed to his vision and Labour’s values.
Vaughan Gething represented Wales and demonstrated its commitment to diversity and inclusion at the 60th anniversary of the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in Birmingham.
During his campaign, Gething committed to creating the Mari Rees fund to train and develop black, Asian, and minority ethnic Labour members, aiming for a diverse Senedd. He is actively learning Welsh, underscoring its cultural importance.
Gething’s election coincides with major challenges for Wales, such as an aging population, economic struggles, and a cost of living crisis. His leadership is key to tackling these issues and guiding Wales to a brighter, more inclusive future.
Succeeding Mark Drakeford, Gething brings hope as a symbol of progress for Wales and Europe. His historic election as Europe’s first Black leader reflects political change and the growing value of diversity.