Unforgettable, successful, and busy. These are three words that sum up my final year as the Welsh Culture Officer and UMCA President. It’s hard to believe, after five invaluable years in Aberystwyth, that my time is coming to an end, and as true as many warned me, the years have truly flown by. Although I’m leaving, like many others, Aber and UMCA shall forever have a very special place in my heart. It’s impossible for me to mention every highpoint of the year in this article, but here’s three that stand out for me.
Firstly, without a doubt, the Intercollege Eisteddfod that was held here in Aberystwyth in the Arts’ Centre on St David’s Day this year. Being able to have the experience of organising the Eisteddfod for over 700 Welsh speaking students from all over the country was a golden moment, and an opportunity to develop many diverse skills that shall undoubtedly be extremely useful on my career path. To top it off, UMCA managed to keep the Intercollege shield in Aber for another year, and that was after defeating Bangor for the first time in nine years last years in the Swansea Intercollege Eisteddfod. I also had the opportunity to organise a gig after the Eisteddfod where over 800 people came to enjoy an evening the company of the best bands of the Welsh Language Rock Scene such as Bwncath, Dros Dro (a band which includes UMCA members and the winners of Cân i Gymru) and TewTewTennau. It’s certainly going to be hard to beat that day!
Although the period the Students’ Union Full Time Officer review was extremely challenging, seeing the passion and the enthusiasm of UMCA members past and present was truly special and a highlight for me personally. It became obvious how key the Welsh Language Union is for students’ lives here in Aberystwyth, and thousands came together to try to resolve the fight to keep the Welsh Culture Officer and UMCA President roles full time. I believe that we can take pride in the way that our students fought what was important to them and succeed not only to defend the role but demand a new name for it, simply, Llywydd UMCA.
Finally, UMCA’s Mystery Trip this year to Pen Llŷn was a highlight. We had an exceptionally warm welcome in the Heliwr and Cwrw Llŷn pubs in Nefyn, and then the Madryn in Chwilog and it was obvious that everyone had well and truly enjoyed it. The rest of the RAG Week was also extremely successful with UMCA managing to raise £3000 for the second year running for a very special charity, Teenage Cancer Trust Cymru.
I would like to end by sincerely thanking all UMCA members for two thoroughly unforgettable years at the helm, and every best wish to Nanw and the new committee. The future of the Welsh Language Union in Aberystwyth is in safe hands.
Llawer o gariad,
Elain x