Humza Yousaf
Fourth First Minister of Scotland, Scottish politician, health and justice secretary
Humza Yousaf (born August 25, 1985) is a Scottish politician of Pakistani heritage who became the fourth First Minister of Scotland in March 2023, following Nicola Sturgeon's resignation. Born in Glasgow, Yousaf studied law at the University of Edinburgh and worked as a solicitor before entering politics. He was elected to the Scottish Parliament in 2016, representing Glasgow Southside, and rapidly rose through the Scottish National Party ranks. As Scottish Health Secretary (2018-2021) and Scottish Justice Secretary (2021-2023), he managed significant public health crises and criminal justice policy during pivotal moments in Scottish governance. His ascension to First Minister represented a historic milestone as Scotland's first Muslim head of government and the youngest to hold the position in modern times. His tenure focused on Scottish independence advocacy, public services reform, and social justice initiatives. Though his premiership was relatively brief, lasting until May 2024, Yousaf's political career has demonstrated the increasing diversity of Scottish political leadership and the SNP's evolution as a party.
Political Leader
Scottish
1985
Thinking about the name
Humza
Arabic origin
“An Arabic name meaning 'lion' or derived from the root 'hamza' (strong, fierce), Humza carries strength and nobility. Common in Muslim communities, the name evokes courage and masculine power while remaining approachable and contemporary. It's both traditionally rooted and feels at home in modern multicultural contexts.”