Anwen-Grace Rodaway

Anwen is an inspiring young person from Gŵyr, recognised for her exceptional resilience, kindness and determination. Diagnosed with autism, Anwen has overcome significant personal challenges to excel academically and personally.

She served as a representative on the Welsh Youth Parliament at just 13, becoming a strong voice for young people with disabilities, raising awareness about the underdiagnosis of girls with autism, and leading initiatives such as beach cleans and interviews on social issues.

Following lockdowns, Anwen was unable to return to education due to poor mental health. Despite setbacks, Anwen returned to education, achieving outstanding results at Gower College Swansea, winning both Photography and Humanities and Languages Student of the Year awards. She created supportive spaces for LGBTQIA+ students and contributed to her college’s equality panel.

Currently, she is writing a novel and is in her first year of Filmmaking at Aberystwyth University where she is academic student union rep. Anwen’s dedication and positive spirit in striving to bring about change serve as inspiration to all young people in Wales.