Operation Black Vote of success

4.00.00pm UTC (GMT +0000) Mon 28th Jan 2008

Kirsty and Tarig

Liberal Democrat AM for Brecon & Radnorshire Kirsty Williams has congratulated Operation Black Vote (OBV) on winning a highly acclaimed Channel 4/Hansard Society Political Award for its Assembly Mentoring Scheme.

The Democracy Award was presented to OBV for its initiative in trying to raise awareness and encouraging black and minority ethnic individuals to engage in the Welsh democratic process.

Under the scheme Kirsty Williams has paired with Tarig Sanousi, Project Manager of SOVA Cymru. He has spent time with her seeing the in and outs of her working day at the Assembly and will be doing the same in the constituency.

Participants shadow AMs for up to 6 Months, in order to learn about the role and responsibilities of an AM and to gain a better understanding of the political process and potentially consider putting themselves forward as political candidates.

Kirsty said "I am truly delighted to be a part of this worthwhile scheme, which has been a fulfilling and improving experience. I have been very lucky to have been paired with Tarig who is an enthusiastic, talented and perceptive individual. It has been a pleasure to spend time with him and for us both to learn from each other and our life experiences.

"It has been fascinating to learn about his perspective on living in Wales as a minority ethnic individual and I am sure I will continue to learn even more over the coming months."

"We currently only have one ethnic minority Assembly Member and this is quite clearly not representative of our colourful country nor is it good enough. The world of Welsh politics is not truly representing the 'real world' and this must be addressed, we must give an equal voice to the ignored and disadvantaged. This scheme is certainly a move in the right direction and I am delighted that it has been recognised with this coveted award."