Shadow scheme for new politicians

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A shadowing scheme in Wales aimed at encouraging more politicians from black and ethnic minority backgrounds has been hailed a success.

Nine people "buddied up" with assembly members from different parties and two have already been selected to be party candidates at future elections.

The six-month project included attending meetings and surgeries.

Presiding officer Lord Elis Thomas said the assembly also gained "invaluable insights" in engaging with communities.

A party was held at the Senedd to mark the 80th anniversary of women gaining the right to vote and the end of the 2007-2008 mentoring scheme.

The cross-party project was organised by Operation Black Vote (OBV).

Where are British Barack Obamas? Well, there are a number of female Obamas right here Simon Woolley, Operation Black Vote

Elizabeth Musa, who shadowed Helen Mary Jones AM, has now been officially selected for the approved candidate's list for Plaid Cymru.

She can now put herself forward as a candidate for future Westminster, assembly or European elections.

Ms Musa said the scheme had been informative, enlightening and "most of all fulfilling".

She said: "It's been a real journey and an education. I would say to anyone thinking of applying for a place on the shadowing scheme - go for it, embrace it, and enjoy it!"

Some of those involved in the mentoring scheme

Mari Rees, who shadowed Cardiff South and Penarth AM Lorraine Barrett, has been selected as Labour's prospective parliamentary candidate for Preseli and Pembrokeshire.

Ms Rees said: "We need to see more BME (black and minority ethnic) people in the Welsh assembly."

Chair of the Conservative Muslim Forum Shazia Awan shadowed Angela Burns AM.

Ms Awan, also editor of the Welsh Conservative Matters news bulletin, is going through the selection process to become a parliamentary candidate.

Kirsty Williams AM was the mentor for a Liberal Democrat hopeful.

Simon Woolley, OBV director, said: "Where are British Barack Obamas? Well, there are a number of female Obamas right here. They're a credit to themselves, their parties and Wales."