Lis McLean MS

Key interests and achievements

For more than 20 years, Lis's focus has been on the development of the Welsh language through the arts and heritage. Lis is passionate about the way in which the Welsh language and Welsh culture enrich people's lives.   After leaving school, she spent 17 years without using Welsh. She reconnected with her language and culture, which gave her a new sense of belonging and identity. She felt her confidence rising, which opened up opportunities to engage with culture, meet new people, and build new social networks. She wanted others to have those beneficial experiences as well, and wanted to introduce Welsh to everyone.  Lis's passion for the Welsh language and culture has shown her how communities can use culture to enrich lives, develop new skills, improve well-being, and tackle poverty.   Lis's life experiences have also shown that there are fundamental issues that affect people's ability to thrive in everyday life. Mental health and well-being are vitally important. Communities cannot feel empowered without access to high quality health services, including mental health support, as well as good education.

Personal history

Having studied Economics at Aberdeen and Swansea Universities, Lisbeth went on to teach Economics and Business Studies. Her background in education has guided her work in the third sector, bringing a strategic understanding of how to support individuals and communities to grow, flourish, and become more self-sufficient. With a passion for social justice, equality, and ensuring that all voices are heard, Lisbeth's work focuses on fostering partnerships, supporting grassroots community initiatives, and strengthening the presence of the Welsh language in everyday life. Her dedication and leadership has left a lasting impact on Merthyr and beyond. She continues to advocate that sustainable communities are the ones that are built from the ground up - through language, identity, and a shared ambition for a better future.

Professional background

Lisbeth McLean was a community leader for over 20 years, working with the people of Merthyr Tydfil to promote the Welsh language, develop the community, and empower people locally.  As Chief Officer of Menter Iaith Merthyr Tudful and Chief Executive of Canolfan a Theatr Soar, she has played a leading role in creating opportunities for people of all ages to engage with the language and culture in meaningful and practical ways.  With a passion for social justice, equality, and ensuring that all voices are heard, Lisbeth's work focuses on fostering partnerships, supporting grassroots community initiatives, and strengthening the presence of Welsh in everyday life. Her dedication and leadership has left a lasting impact on Merthyr and beyond. She continues to advocate that sustainable communities are the ones that are built from the ground up - through language, identity, and a shared ambition for a better future.

Political history

I had never expected to become a politician, but while fundraising to revive Capel Soar in Merthyr, I saw firsthand how essential politics is in shaping communities. I realised how policy and strategy influence funding, development, and people's opportunities in their everyday lives. After Brexit, I decided to step forward politically, after remaining neutral for years while leading a third sector organisation.  A friend invited me to the Plaid Cymru conference, and I left inspired by how closely my values aligned with its policies. I became increasingly committed, attending conferences and events whenever I could. Over time, I realised the value of my professional and personal experience. My aim has always been to make a positive difference, and becoming a Member of the Senedd felt like a natural extension of my community work. I want to strengthen the link between communities and the government, ensuring that people have a real say in the decisions that affect their daily lives.