DO YOU FEEL WELSH?

Whether you were born in a particular country, raised there, or moved there for job opportunities, feeling like a part of society can vary. Exploring the theme of identity, we asked several students about their perspectives on being Welsh. Here are their responses.

Nureyev Jones For me, being Welsh means feeling a profound connection to both the land and its people. My ancestors, who migrated to Australia, were Welsh and, living here, I sense a strong link to their legacy. The stories and mythology that constitute a significant part of my Welsh identity reflect our history as a people resisting occupation, standing against forces such as the Romans and the Saxons – (moved from Australia six years ago).

Elina Sarkisian

Even though I am not Welsh and this is my first time in the country, I have never truly felt like a foreigner. There was an immediate sense of home. I attribute this to the country's diversity and the warm hospitality of its people. For me, Wales and its inhabitants embody nature, adventures, fresh air punctuated by occasional rainy days, and a love for dogs. P.S: I've never seen such a variety of dog breeds in my life! - (moved from Ukraine a year ago).

Angelique: When confronted with the question 'What does it mean to be Welsh?', my initial response is that you might be asking the wrong person, as my awareness of the Welsh culture is limited. Despite living in the UK for over four years, I don't feel connected to the Welsh culture. My knowledge is minimal, and the opportunities to learn about it in school are scarce. The occasional glimpses I get into the Welsh culture usually happen during events like Christmas or football matches, where some Welsh citizens showcase their traditions. I respect this, as it provides a learning opportunity for those of us less familiar. Overall, I don't identify as Welsh, and I lack a deep understanding of what it truly means to be Welsh!

–(moved from Congo over four years ago).

Rabeea: Being Welsh, to me, means embodying hospitality and warmth toward everyone we encounter. It's about being there for one another, whether in a professional setting, local community, or neighbourhoods. – (born in Wales).