A North East quine through and through, I was born and raised in Aberdeen and currently live in Aberdeenshire. My motto in life is to always take learning opportunities from any experience – to walk a mile in others’ shoes.

A born advocate, I learned BSL as a child to communicate with my Deaf father and was very much immersed in the Deaf community.

As a young mother, I volunteered in the community as a Compassionate Service Leader and a Young Women’s Advocate. I am is also a single mum and carer to my children, some of whom have additional support requirements.

Prior to becoming the first woman elected as MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast, I was a local councillor in the Mid-Formartine ward of Aberdeenshire.

I further made history as the first MSP to take the affirmation in BSL at the swearing-in at Holyrood after my May 2021 electoral victory. I currently hold positions on both the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee and the Rural Affairs, Islands and Natural Environment Committee.

I continue to be a fierce campaigner for the SNP and Scottish Independence as a member of Banff and Macduff branch, assisting in every referendum and election campaign since 2014.

Away from politics, you will often find me spending time with my six children, two grandchildren, my dog Matilda, and my cat Tabitha.