Q Manivannan

As a queer Tamil candidate, I believe in building communities of care and collaboration. I prioritise developing local economies, ecologies, culture, and welfare. I am the Co-Convenor of the Palestine Solidarity Group of the Scottish Greens, coordinating over 100 members, including MSPs and counsellors, nationally. I hold 10+ years of experience as a policy expert with the United Nations and other NGOs and CSOs, trained to work on conflict resolution, disability, social equality, welfare, and gender-based violence, and have curated arts and creative events in Edinburgh and Fife for the last four years. As an award-winning political scientist, my PhD research in India, Ireland, and Scotland studied care and grief among marginalised religions and working-class communities.

For Fountainbridge-Craiglockhart, my aim is action-oriented resident consultations – for cheaper and more sustainable housing, undisruptive Canalside projects, to prioritise community businesses, and promote ecological conservation. From more waste bins (for pets and humans alike!), to widening paths for cyclists, pedestrians, wheelchair-users, and parents on Watson Crescent, I will do my part to make our neighbourhoods more inclusive. With my experiences in policy, advocacy, and rights lobbying, I aim to honestly and uncompromisingly representing our ward at all city and national forums – to address growing violence, build sustainable infrastructure, and safeguard local community interests.