A south Wales east Senedd member has been named in the BBC’s list of the 100 most influential and inspiring women from around the world for 2021.

Natasha Asghar, who is a Senedd member for South East Wales, made history this year when she became the first woman of colour to be elected to the Senedd since it was formed in 1999.

Ms Asghar, who is also the Welsh Conservative shadow minister for transport and technology, said: “It is a huge honour to be named in this list alongside some extremely talented and trailblazing women, who have achieved great things in their significant positions.

“I have been overwhelmed with messages and support since the list was revealed and I would like to thank everyone who has reached out to me.

“It is a huge privilege and I am truly honoured to have been included in such a prestigious list.

“However, my work is not done. I want to inspire people from all walks of life and backgrounds to become involved in politics and I will work tirelessly to help others follow in my footsteps and enter the political arena.”

Welsh Conservative leader Andrew RT Davies MS added:

“Natasha smashed the glass ceiling six months ago, making history as the first woman of colour to be elected in the Senedd.

“She is already proving to be a fantastic MS, adding great value to the Senedd and the Welsh Conservatives and if she is not in the chamber holding the Labour Government to account, she is out and about in her region meeting constituents and trying to help them. She never stops.

“Being ranked in the top 100 most influential and inspiriting women across the world is a fantastic achievement and it is well deserved. I know her family will be extremely proud, and her late father, Oscar, will be looking down with pride.

“Congratulations Natasha from all of us in the Welsh Conservatives.”