Karen Adam

A North East quine through and through, Karen Adam was born and raised in Aberdeen and currently lives in Aberdeenshire. Her motto in life is to always take learning opportunities from any experience – to walk a mile in others’ shoes.

A born advocate, Karen learned BSL as a child to communicate with her Deaf father and was very much immersed in the Deaf community.

As a young mother, she volunteered in her community as a Compassionate Service Leader and a Young Women’s Advocate. Karen is also a single mum and carer to her children, some of whom have additional support requirements.

Prior to becoming the first woman elected as MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast, Karen was a local councillor in the Mid-Formartine ward of Aberdeenshire.

She further made history as the first MSP to take the affirmation in BSL at the swearing-in at Holyrood after her May 2021 electoral victory. Karen currently holds positions on both the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee and the Rural Affairs, Islands and Natural Environment Committee.

Karen continues to be a fierce campaigner for the SNP and Scottish Independence as a member of Banff and Macduff branch, assisting in every referendum and election campaign since 2014.

Away from politics, you will often find Karen spending time with her six children, two grandchildren, her dog Matilda, and her cat Tabitha.

You can stay up to date with Karen’s activity on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and TikTok.