THE COLEG Cymraeg Cenedlaethol is inviting Black, Asian and Minority ethnic Welsh speakers aged 16-19 to join its Sbarduno Scheme which provides support for young people to continue to use their Welsh skills and to build their confidence.
One who benefited from the Scheme last year was Joshua Romain who is a Head Pupil in year 13 at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg Plasmawr. He was mentored by Cardiff University Equality Champion, Noam Devey.
Joshua said: “Being on the Scheme gave me the confidence to take on more opportunities through the medium of Welsh.
“I enjoy writing, and the scheme gave me the boost I needed to share my work publicly.
“Since being mentored on the Scheme, I’ve written several articles and blogs on identity and equality – topics that are very important to me.”
One of his articles has been published in Golwg magazine and discusses the relevance and inclusiveness of the term ‘Cymry Cymraeg’ to describe Welsh speakers. He has also written an article on the Coleg’s website on the impact of the ‘Black Lives Matter’ protests five years on.
Joshua said: “I think the most important thing when talking about the 2020 protests is the narrative around them. How we as a country reflect on it, in our museums, in classrooms, and when discussing with family and friends.
“As I get older, I understand and become more aware of the racism I face.
“It is therefore vitally important to remember and celebrate the protests and their consequences while continuing to call for improvements.”
“I would encourage anyone to join the Sbarduno Scheme – as a mentor or as a pupil.
“Diverse representation and role models are crucial for young people, not just from Global Majority backgrounds but for everyone ensuring everyone is seen.
“I would like to focus on positive role models within the Welsh world.”
According to Emily Pemberton, the Coleg’s Equality, Diversity and Anti-Racism Co-ordinator, the purpose of the scheme is to ensure that Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic young people have the opportunity to discuss their future with a mentor who can offer them advice and guidance on how to maximise their Welsh language skills after leaving school.
Emily said: “The Welsh language opens so many doors and it’s important that Black, Asian or Minority Ethnic pupils can see that opportunities to train, study and work through the medium of Welsh are available and relevant to them.
“By bringing the mentors and students together to discuss experiences, challenges and opportunities, and to offer support and information, our hope is to nurture the next generation of Welsh leaders.”
The Coleg welcomes applications from Black, Asian and Minority ethnic students (aged 16-19) and mentors before 26 September 2025. Please visit this page for further information.
