I’m proud to be part of the Plaid Cymru team with Lisbeth McLean and Sara Crowley, representing and supporting the people of Pontypridd, Cynon and Merthyr in our local communities and in our Senedd. Here you can learn more about one of my colleagues, Lis McLean, her background and what she'd like to achieve in her first terms as a Member of the Senedd
Lisbeth McLean is a community leader with over 20 years’ experience of working with the people of Merthyr Tydfil to promote the Welsh language, community development, and local empowerment. As Chief Officer of Menter Iaith Merthyr Tudful and Managing Director 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.
Lisbeth studied Economics at the University of Aberdeen and Swansea University before going on to teach Economics and Business Studies. Her background in education has informed her work in the third sector, bringing a strategic understanding of how to support individuals and communities to grow, thrive, and become more self-reliant.
Deeply passionate about social justice, equality, and ensuring that all voices are heard, Lisbeth’s work focuses on building partnerships, supporting grassroots initiatives, and strengthening the presence of the Welsh language in everyday life. Her dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact in Merthyr and beyond.
She continues to champion the idea that sustainable communities are built from the ground up—through language, identity, and a shared vision for a better future.
What motivated you to stand as a Member of the Senedd?
“I never expected to become a politician, but while raising funding for the regeneration of Capel Soar in Merthyr, I saw firsthand how vital politics is in shaping communities. I realised how policy and strategy influence funding, development, and people’s everyday opportunities. After Brexit, I decided to step forward politically, having remained neutral while leading a third-sector organisation. A friend invited me to a Plaid Cymru conference, where I felt inspired by how closely my values aligned with its policies. I became increasingly engaged, attending conferences and events whenever possible. Over time, I recognised the value of my professional and personal experience. I have always aimed 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 connection between communities and government, ensuring people have a genuine voice in the decisions that affect their daily lives.”
What issues, locally and nationally, are you most passionate about?
“For over 20 years, I have focused on Welsh language development through arts and heritage, and I am passionate about how language and culture enrich lives. After 17 years without using Welsh, reconnecting with my language gave me a renewed sense of belonging, confidence, and new opportunities. I wanted others to experience these benefits and connect with Welsh culture. This work has shown me how culture can strengthen communities, build skills, improve wellbeing, and help tackle poverty. My experiences have also highlighted the importance of mental health, education, and access to quality services, which are essential for communities to feel empowered and thrive.”
What do you hope to achieve in your first term as an MS?
“My main reason for standing was to bring my work and life experience to the Senedd and ensure that my community’s voice is heard. In my first term, I want to bring my community into the Senedd and bring the Senedd into my community. My priority will be to listen to people, support community empowerment, and ensure that Welsh language and culture are fully integrated across Welsh Government strategy and policy. Above all, my priority will always be the elimination of poverty across Wales.”
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