Simita Kumar MSP

Simita Kumar was appointed as Minister for Equalities and International Development in May 2026. 

Born in the Fiji Islands, she moved to Scotland as a teenager. She began her career as a Modern Apprentice with Glasgow City Council, where she received a commendation award for her work.  She later completed an undergraduate degree in Psychology with Criminology, followed by a Master’s degree in Health Research.

Before entering elected office, Ms Kumar worked across the public and voluntary sectors from 2013 onwards. Her career included roles with NHS Lothian, Children’s Health Scotland, and Public Health Scotland. She has also volunteered with charities including Victim Support & Witness Services, and ChildLine.

She was elected as a councillor for Southside/Newington in 2022 and went on to lead the SNP Group at the City of Edinburgh Council from 2024-2026.

In May 2026, she was elected to the Scottish Parliament as the MSP for Edinburgh South Western.

Outside politics, Ms Kumar is a keen rugby fan – particularly of sevens rugby – and enjoys wild swimming.

• Read more about Simita Kumar on the Scottish Parliament website.