Last month, Swansea came alive with celebration as we honoured the incredible achievements of adult learners at the awards ceremony. The room was filled with emotion, warmth, and powerful stories of perseverance and triumph. Each story is a shining example of the impact of lifelong learning as a catalyst for change that opens doors, builds confidence, and sparks real transformation.

The Inspire! Adult Learning Awards are a highlight of Adult Learners’ Week, a national campaign that promotes adult education and its impact on careers, health, and communities across Wales through free events and support.

Gina Powell, winner of the Learner Voice Award, captured the spirit of the event perfectly:

“Being a learning ambassador, I show that life doesn’t end with being a parent – they can become whatever they want to be! I’ve walked in the same shoes as many of the families I support.”

Meet our 2025 winners below.

Learning for Better Health Award – Mandy Price 

Despite facing the challenges of epilepsy and significant caring responsibilities, Mandy successfully continues her own studies and demonstrates skill in navigating her complex life. She also volunteers as a reading mentor with her support dog, Daisy. Putting aside initial doubts about her academic ability, she’s earned a Foundation Degree in Animal Science and is now pursuing a BSc, with plans for a Master’s in Children and Young People’s Mental Health. Mandy’s passion for learning and helping others is unstoppable!

New Welsh Speaker Award – Foo Seng Thean 

Since arriving in Swansea in 2015, Foo Seng has embraced Welsh with passion and purpose. Determined to overcome the language barrier, he set out to learn and now inspires others to do the same. Through the Chinese in Wales Association, he champions Welsh in social media, events, and everyday life, proving that language truly brings communities together. Foo Seng is also part of a Welsh Learners’ Choir, using his love of singing to strengthen his language skills and connect with others through music. 

Ageing Will Award – Gloria Beynon 

Retirement didn’t slow Gloria down – it sparked a whole new chapter of learning and giving back. A former teaching assistant, she’s now a community rock, caring for her grandchildren and volunteering locally. Fuelled by a passion for personal growth, Gloria has completed six accredited courses, proving it’s never too late to learn, lead, and inspire. 

Skills for Work Award – Will Hougham 

Will made the most of his apprenticeship at Real SFX, showing resilience, drive, and a real passion for the creative industries. He became a brilliant ambassador, representing the company at careers events and inspiring future talent. Now mentoring new apprentices himself, Will’s journey is a shining example of learning on the job – and leading by example. 

Hywel Francis Award for Community Impact – Parent Learning Group at Cathays High School 

This inspiring multicultural group is transforming lives in Cardiff – achieving around 120 qualifications a year and helping nearly half of its members into work. Beyond learning, they’re tackling health inequalities head-on, raising awareness of diabetes and heart conditions, and more than doubling vaccine uptake in at-risk communities – a true force for change.

Essential Skills for Life Award – Janine Price 

Janine’s learning journey began with a simple cooking course – and it sparked a passion for growth. Since then, she’s completed courses in Child Psychology, maths support and Paediatric First Aid. Now volunteering as a teaching assistant, Janine plays a vital role in helping children thrive in literacy and numeracy. A powerful example of learning changing lives.

Shared Futures Award – Hamdi Abdalkareem 

Hamdi’s passion for healthcare began in rural Sudan, where access was scarce. Since moving to Wales, he’s focused on building his business and leadership skills – completing management courses at Cardiff University and now studying Project Management. Hamdi’s drive to improve medical practices shows how learning can change lives and communities. 

Life Change Award – Ida Aldred 

Ida’s learning journey has been all about growth and discovery. By earning her Agored Learning Development qualification, she recognised her strengths and skills from work and life experience. Ida didn’t stop there – she completed Overcoming Barriers to Work, started learning Welsh with ‘Croeso Cymraeg Gwaith’, and trained as a volunteer for ESOL courses in the community. Ida’s story shows how learning can open doors and build confidence.

Life Change Award – Michael Cook 

Michael’s journey began in the kitchen, where his creativity and leadership shone as a chef. Driven by a passion for teaching, he made the bold move to switch careers later in life. Michael believes dyslexia stunted his culinary career, but he’s always loved sharing his skills. Now, he’s motivated to help others, particularly young people with similar learning difficulties, showcasing that with the right support and removal of barriers, it’s never too late to follow your heart and make a difference.

Learner Voice Award – Gina Powell 

Gina is a passionate advocate for adult learning, now working as a family engagement officer. She connects parents and adults with learning opportunities through partnerships with Cardiff and Vale College and Adult Learning Cardiff.  Through her dedicated work, 52 adults have completed courses in the past two years – some even progressing to university. Gina’s work is opening doors and changing futures.

Young Adult Learner Award – Osian Lloyd 

Osian is a true example of how adult learning can transform lives and help to overcome adversity. Through The Story Project with the The Wallich, he worked with theatre professionals to create a play about homelessness – and discovered a passion for acting, even landing the lead role. Osian’s strength and commitment show the power of learning to unlock new talents and confidence.

Congratulations to all eleven award winners. The success of the Inspire! Awards are built directly on the strong foundation of collaboration and commitment from our valued partners and sponsors. Our sincere thanks also go to all the organisations who champion lifelong learning by taking the time to nominate the wonderful people and projects, showcasing their dedicated efforts and achievements across Wales.

Michael Sheen’s congratulations message

Watch the video