Women in Edinburgh’s political landscape are far from a rarity. In a city where female representation has deep roots, women have long been champions of their rights and experts in the intricacies of lawmaking. More on edinburghyes.
One need only look back at the suffragettes, who fought tirelessly for women’s education and the right to vote.
It is perhaps from these pioneers that today’s female politicians inherited their drive for justice and their ability to stand as formidable equals to their male counterparts.
Fortunately, the era when women were sidelined in public administration is behind us. Today, they are able to fully realise their potential, proving their capabilities across various high-ranking roles.
This shift has brought many unique female figures to the forefront, each earning a well-deserved place on the political stage.
Sarah Herriot Boyack is a prime example. Her journey is defined by persistence and the grace with which she handles setbacks, making her story all the more compelling.
Early Years and Education
Born in Glasgow in May 1961, Boyack grew up in Edinburgh. Her father was a significant figure within the Labour Party, suggesting that her future career was, in many ways, influenced by her upbringing.
Boyack’s educational journey began at Edinburgh’s Royal High School. After completing her schooling, she moved on to the University of Glasgow, where she studied History and Politics.
During this formative period, Sarah’s leadership qualities were already evident. She chaired the university’s Labour Club between 1981 and 1982, and later served as the chair of National Labour Students from 1985 to 1986.
Career Development
Boyack’s academic pursuits continued after Glasgow, as she enrolled at Heriot-Watt University to study Town and Country Planning.
This degree would ultimately define the trajectory of her professional life.
She began her career as a town planner for the London Borough of Brent before moving on to serve as a strategic planner in Stirling.
Starting in a field that allowed her to showcase her talent, Sarah quickly achieved notable success, which naturally accelerated her career progression.
Beyond the practical application of her skills, Boyack also engaged with the theoretical side of her profession, returning to Heriot-Watt University as a lecturer.
A major milestone came in 1997 when she was appointed as the Convenor of the Scottish branch of the Royal Town Planning Institute.
Politics: A New Chapter
While Boyack’s professional career was moving at a rapid pace, earning her widespread respect, the next phase of her life would bring a total transformation.
In 1999, Sarah entered the world of politics, fundamentally shifting her career path.
Elected to the first Scottish Parliament in 1999, Boyack took on entirely new responsibilities.
From 1999 to 2000, she served as the Minister for Transport and the Environment.
Between 2000 and 2001, she held the role of Minister for Transport and Planning. It was during this time that Sarah implemented a landmark Labour initiative: free bus travel for disabled people and passengers over the age of 60.
A Leading Figure in Environmental Affairs
After being re-elected to the Scottish Parliament in 2003, Boyack was appointed Convener of the Environment and Rural Development Committee. Her impact in this role was significant; in November 2004, she was nominated for the RSPB Goldcrest Award for her outstanding contribution to Scotland’s environmental policy.
The politician was particularly influential in the development and implementation of renewable energy strategies.
Leaving the committee in January 2007, Boyack returned to the government as Deputy Minister for Environment and Rural Development.
Further Challenges
In 2011, Sarah lost her seat in the Edinburgh Central constituency during the Scottish Parliament elections. However, she remained in Holyrood as an additional member for the Lothian region.
In October 2014, Boyack officially announced her candidacy for the leadership of the Scottish Labour Party. She ultimately finished in third place in the contest.
Return to Professional Roots
Following 2011, Sarah faced a difficult period at the polls, with successive electoral attempts proving unsuccessful.
Her bid for re-election to the Scottish Parliament in 2016 also ended in defeat.
In early 2017, Boyack returned to the sector where her career began. She was appointed Head of Public Affairs for the Scottish Federation of Housing Associations (SFHA), an organisation dedicated to social housing issues.
Return to Parliament
If something is meant to be, it will eventually come to fruition.
In April 2019, Sarah finally returned to the Scottish Parliament as a list MSP.
By September of that year, she was appointed as the Scottish Labour spokesperson for Local Government.
Sarah Boyack has become a true embodiment of female talent in politics. Despite electoral setbacks, she has persevered in her commitment to the public good. Through her work, sectors such as local government, social housing, transport, and the environment have been significantly enhanced by her practical innovations and valuable initiatives.
In the process, she has established herself as a respected figure who welcomes responsibility and remains dedicated to improving the lives of the local community.