Leader of the Scottish Labour Party from 2015 to 2017, known for being the first openly LGBT+ leader of a major political party in the UK. 18
Kezia Dugdale is a Scottish former politician who made history as the Leader of the Scottish Labour Party from 2015 to 2017, becoming the first woman to hold the position. She is known for her tireless efforts to promote social justice and equality, leaving a lasting impact on Scottish politics.
Dugdale was born on August 28, 1981, in Aberdeen, Scotland. She attended Harris Academy in Dundee, where she served as Head Girl. Her academic pursuits took her to the University of Aberdeen, where she studied law, and later to the University of Edinburgh, where she earned a degree in Policy Studies.
Dugdale's journey into politics began as a campaigns and welfare adviser at the University of Edinburgh. She later worked as an election agent, political researcher, and parliamentary officer before being elected as a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) for the Lothian region in 2011. Her dedication and hard work earned her the position of Deputy Leader of the Scottish Labour Party in 2014.
In 2015, Dugdale became the Leader of the Scottish Labour Party, a milestone that marked her as the first woman to hold the position. Under her leadership, the party went into the 2016 Scottish Parliament election, finishing third behind the Scottish National Party (SNP) and Scottish Conservatives. Despite not being elected to the Edinburgh Eastern constituency, she was re-elected on the Lothian regional list.
Dugdale's leadership continued to yield positive results, with the party holding its sole seat and gaining six additional seats from the SNP during the 2017 general election. In August 2017, she resigned as leader, passing the baton to her successor to lead the party into the 2021 Scottish Parliament election.
After leaving frontbench politics, Dugdale pursued a career as a columnist and made headlines as a contestant on the ITV reality show "I'm a Celebrity...Get Me Out of Here!" in 2017. In July 2019, she resigned her seat and Scottish Labour membership, accepting the role of director of the John Smith Centre for Public Service at the University of Glasgow.
Dugdale's contributions to Scottish politics and society have earned her recognition and accolades. She was named one of the "Top 100 Most Influential Women in Scotland" by the Herald in 2015.
Dugdale's political career has been guided by her unwavering commitment to social justice, equality, and fairness. She has been a vocal advocate for issues such as education, healthcare, and economic development, always prioritizing the needs of the Scottish people.
Dugdale's trailblazing legacy extends beyond her political career. She has inspired a new generation of women to pursue careers in politics and public service, breaking down barriers and challenging gender stereotypes.
47 Years Old
Leader of the Scottish Conservative Party from 2011 to 2019, known for her charismatic leadership and vocal opposition to Scottish independence.
55 Years Old
The First Minister of Scotland, leading the country's government and advocating for Scottish independence, known for her strong leadership and progressive policies.
71 Years Old
The former First Minister of Scotland who led the country's independence referendum and advocated for Scottish nationalism. He's known for his charismatic leadership and controversial political career.
45 Years Old
Scottish footballer who played as a striker for clubs like Hibernian and Rangers, and was capped 18 times for Scotland.
