Nadia El-Nakla: A Multifaceted Leader and Advocate
Nadia El-Nakla is a distinguished figure in Scottish politics and counseling, known for her diverse contributions as a pluralistic counselor, political activist, and elected councillor. She represents the West End ward of Dundee City Council and serves as an outspoken advocate for Palestinian rights. Her life and career reflect her dedication to equality, mental health, and social justice.
Early Life and Education
Born in Dundee, Scotland, in 1983, Nadia El-Nakla has roots in both Palestinian and Scottish heritage. Her father, Maged El-Nakla, is of Palestinian descent, while her mother, Elizabeth El-Nakla, is Scottish. This bicultural background shaped her worldview and commitment to advocacy for marginalized communities.
Nadia pursued her undergraduate studies in Politics, Political Science, and Government at the University of Dundee, graduating in 2005 with a 2:1 grade. Later, she deepened her expertise in mental health by earning a Master’s in Counseling from Abertay University in 2021.
Professional Career
Counseling and Advocacy
Nadia is a pluralistic counselor specializing in areas such as:
- Mediation
- Couples counseling
- Eating disorders
- Anxiety and depression
She began offering her services through NY Counseling & Training in 2021. Her approach is client-centered, combining tailored communications training with counseling services.
Political Career
Nadia entered politics with a focus on social justice and equality. In May 2022, she was elected as a councillor for Dundee City Council, where she has served as:
- Equality Spokesperson
- Drugs and Alcohol Spokesperson
- Depute Convenor for Climate Change and Sustainability
Her roles reflect her commitment to addressing systemic inequalities and promoting sustainability in her community.
Advocacy for Palestinian Rights
As a Palestinian activist, Nadia has been a prominent voice for human rights. She serves as the Convenor of SNP Friends of Palestine, working to raise awareness about Palestinian issues and support the broader movement for equality and justice.
Personal Life
Marital History
Nadia’s personal life has been marked by significant milestones:
- First Husband: Nadia was previously married to Fariad Umar, an IT expert. The couple had one daughter. Their marriage ended after Nadia’s affair with Craig Melville, an SNP councillor, became public.
- Affair with Craig Melville: The relationship caused controversy, particularly after Melville’s racist text messages following the Paris terror attacks in 2015 were revealed. This scandal led to Melville’s resignation and Nadia’s divorce.
- Current Husband: In 2019, Nadia married Humza Yousaf, who later became the First Minister of Scotland and leader of the Scottish National Party (SNP). They have two daughters and welcomed a third child, Liyana Jenin Yousaf, in July 2024.
Family and Siblings
Nadia’s family includes her younger brother, Ramsay El-Nakla, who faced legal troubles in January 2024. Ramsay was charged with extortion and abduction in connection to an incident involving a man’s death in Dundee. Despite these challenges, Nadia has remained steadfast in her professional and personal commitments.
Notable Experiences
Trapped in Gaza
In October 2023, during the Israel–Hamas war, Nadia’s parents became trapped in Gaza while visiting a sick relative. Their plight highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis in the region. They safely crossed into Egypt on November 3, 2023, after weeks of uncertainty.
Contributions to Mental Health
Nadia’s counseling work has been pivotal in addressing mental health issues. She is a member of the British Association for Counseling and Psychotherapy, ensuring that her practice adheres to the highest professional standards.
Nadia El-Nakla’s Impact
Nadia El-Nakla’s life is a testament to her dedication to service. From her work as a counselor addressing critical mental health issues to her political activism for Palestinian rights and equality, she has consistently advocated for the well-being of individuals and communities.
Her multifaceted career and personal journey have established her as a significant figure in Scottish politics and beyond, inspiring others to champion causes close to their hearts.
