Kemi Badenoch, MP for North West Essex, has been appointed as the new leader of the Conservative Party, defeating Robert Jenrick in the final vote. At 44, Badenoch’s win not only puts her at the forefront of British politics but also makes her the first black person to lead the party.

Born in Wimbledon to Nigerian parents, Badenoch spent much of her childhood in Nigeria before returning to the UK to study engineering. Though she identifies as agnostic, she describes herself as a “cultural Christian”—someone who aligns with Christian values without a personal faith. Her family background, which she describes as “sort of Anglican and Methodist,” instilled these values.

In her personal life, Badenoch takes a pragmatic approach to faith. Married to a Catholic, she is raising her two children in the Catholic Church and jokingly calls herself an “honorary Catholic.”

Badenoch’s stance on religious freedom came into the spotlight recently when she defended Scottish politician Kate Forbes’ right to express Christian views on social issues. While Badenoch supports same-sex marriage, she opposed efforts to marginalise Forbes over her religious beliefs.

“If you’re asking me to condemn someone for their religious views, you’ve misunderstood the role of a Minister for Equality,” she said, commending Forbes’ honesty.

She argued passionately for free expression, adding: “I’m not religious at all, but I understand it. I grew up in a very religious country, so I understand what it means to people and how they live their lives. Stopping people from saying what they really feel is overly draconian.”

Throughout her political career, Badenoch has held several prominent roles. Most recently, she served as Secretary of State for Business and Trade (February 2023 - July 2024), Secretary of State for International Trade and President of the Board of Trade (September 2022 - July 2024), and Minister for Women and Equalities (October 2022 - July 2024).