Overview
Role responsibilities
As Manager of Academi Gymraeg (Cardiff University’s Welsh Language Academy) I work closely with the Dean of Welsh Language and Cardiff University Branch of Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol to deliver the objectives of the Welsh Language strategy (Embrace it/Yr Alwad). My work is interesting and varied, and I regularly work in collaboration with staff and students university-wide to support and inspire Welsh medium learning, teaching and research, and to present a range of projects that contribute to creating a thriving diverse and inclusive bilingual community.
Key work/specialisms
- Project lead for Staff and Student Welsh Language skills and experiences questionnaires
- Support for development and delivery of the new Cardiff Citizen module and outreach project
- Coordination and promotion of St David’s Day celebration event for staff
- Manager of Welsh Language skills buddying programme for academic staff
- Project lead for the Betty Campbell Scholarship
- Ad hoc support to staff and stakeholders seeking to improve Welsh medium provision
Biography
I joined Cardiff University in 2016, working in international development project, “Phoenix Project,” with the University of Namibia and University of Zambia. I coordinated staff and student exchange trips between Africa and Wales and managed the Erasmus+ programme. I also worked as a Creative Agent for the Arts Council of Wales, overseeing creative learning projects in two Welsh medium primary schools.
I’ve also worked in the School of Social Sciences as Student Engagement Officer, and in the Widening Participation team, on the HEFCW funded Reaching Wider project, ‘First Campus’ where I ran a programme of educational activities for adult learners, young people with experience of care, and young carers. Earlier in my career I worked in arts in health at St Barts NHS Health Trust, and Guys’ and St Thomas’ Charity in London.
My career is varied, and I’d like to think that the common themes are social justice, creativity and collaboration. Moving home to Wales in 2016 was a pivotal moment, as I experienced a powerful reconnection with the Welsh language. I’m fortunate to be able to combine my work experience and my passion for the Welsh language in my current role at Academi Gymraeg.
