Gething who is currently Welsh economic minister was elected to lead the government by members of the Welsh parliament in Cardiff, after narrowly beating Education Minister Jeremy Miles in a race to replace First Minister Mark Drakeford.
“It is a matter of pride for a modern Wales but also a daunting responsibility for me – and one that I do not take lightly,” Gething told the Welsh parliament, known as the Senedd Cymru in Welsh.
He pursued his education in law at Aberystwyth University and qualified as a solicitor at Cardiff University.
His involvement in politics began early, at 17, when he joined the Labour Party to contribute to campaigning efforts during the 1992 elections.
Before entering the Senedd, Gething gained experience working as a researcher for former Assembly Members Val Feld and Lorraine Barrett. His dedication and leadership skills led to him becoming the youngest-ever president of the Wales Trade Union Congress in 2008.
In 2011, he was elected as the member for Cardiff South and Penarth in the Senedd, where he began his political career.
Gething’s milestone came in 2013 when he became the first African cabinet minister in any of the devolved governments of Northern Ireland, Scotland, or Wales, serving as deputy minister for tackling poverty.
His career trajectory continued to rise as he took on roles in health, eventually becoming health minister in 2016. He retained this position during the initial phase of the pandemic, demonstrating his commitment to public service during challenging times.
Transitioning to the role of economy minister, Gething has been instrumental in navigating Wales through various crises, including the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which is currently under public inquiry.
Despite facing challenges, Gething has remained resilient and dedicated to his role, exemplified by his decision to run for the leadership of the Welsh Labour Party for the second time in 2018, demonstrating his ongoing commitment to serving his constituents and the people of Wales.
On January 16, 2024, Gething and the other candidate, Jeremy Miles, participated in a hustings event to secure the nomination from the trade union Unite, and Gething ultimately received the nomination.
Subsequently, elections were conducted on a one-member-one-vote basis, allowing all Welsh Labour members who joined the party before December 12 – the day before Drakeford resigned – to cast their votes on March 16. Following the conclusion of the elections, it was announced that Gething emerged victorious with 51.7% of the vote.
This important victory paves the way for Gething to make history as the first African originated First Minister of Wales, as well as leader of any European country.
Gething, whose full name is Humphrey Vaughan ap David Gething, is married to Michelle and has a son. They reside in Penarth, a place he has called home since 2011.