The Senedd Commission has welcomed four interns onto its new ‘Ymlaen’ internship scheme.
The scheme provides graduates from a Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic background a paid internship at the heart of Welsh politics. Over the course of their internship, they will develop skills and knowledge in an exciting workplace where Wales’ laws are made.
The scheme is part of the Senedd’s commitment to attracting talent from a wide range of backgrounds and to recognise the value of reflecting the diversity of Wales in its workforce.
The four roles are within the Communications, Engagement, and Senedd Committee teams, and will run for 12 months.
Abida Khatun, one of the successful applicants onto the scheme, said:
“From the outset, the Senedd Commission’s core values of ‘Respect’ ‘Passion’ and ‘Pride’ really resonated with me.
“As a Muslim, British/Bangladeshi woman, I hope to be both a voice for my community and communities that may not know much about the work of the Senedd and top demonstrate how important this branch of our society is. Importantly, I want to encourage a mindset within our communities, of ‘if they can do it, I can do it.”
The scheme is running in partnership with the Windsor Fellowship, a charity that specialises in innovative personal development and leadership programmes that enables talent from diverse communities to be realised.
Manon Antoniazzi, Chief Executive and Clerk of the Senedd, said:
“This is an exciting opportunity for graduates to develop their skills and understanding in a high-profile and fast-paced environment at the heart of Welsh democracy.
“We’re proud that the scheme will mentor, coach and provide Lukas, Abida, Afsana and Suad with exciting opportunities to build skills and develop their careers, with invaluable exposure to activities to help prepare for their future careers. Equally we are fortunate that they chose to pursue their internships with the Senedd Commission - we are delighted!
“We know that our workforce is stronger when it better reflects Wales’ diverse communities.”
