Among the winners is Gemma Waite, who studies philosophy, ethics and religion at ÌìÌì³Ô¹Ï. Gemma, who is in her third year, won the Merêd Award - which recognises a student's contribution to Welsh life and culture, within a university and more widely.
The winners were announced at a ceremony at the Canolfan S4C Yr Egin, Carmarthen on Thursday, 19 June.
It's an honour and a privilege to win the Merêd award. It's wonderful to know that all the work I've done while at university is not only recognised, but also appreciated. This award has opened new opportunities for the future, and for that, I'm grateful.
As a course representative, I have made it a priority to represent Welsh students, whether this is in terms of issues relating to the course, social issues or offering support when needed. I have enjoyed the opportunity to be a course representative and work with other students, lecturers and the university more widely to try to ensure that the student experience is at the heart of the university.
Mainly, I would like to thank my lecturers for all the opportunities, without these experiences I would not have achieved half my accomplishments.
Having graduated, Gemma will return to ÌìÌì³Ô¹Ïin September to study an MPhil in ethics and religion. During her time at Bangor, she had the privilege of working with the National Centre for Religious Education Wales on the 'Peace Project', where she created resources for year 7-9 secondary school students, on different aspects of peace. These aspects included peace and religion, social justice, and interactive activities to inspire young people to think more about the subject. The Young Peacemakers project from the Centre for International Affairs Wales and Wales for Peace won the Llangollen Eisteddfod in 2024.
It has been a privilege to support Gemma throughout her studies. Her intellect and passion for the study of philosophy through the medium of Welsh perfectly reflect Merêd’s legacy – that’s why I was so keen to nominate her. And being at Yr Egin to see Gemma receive the award from the current Archdruid of Wales, Mererid Hopwood, was a real joy, especially as she too is an active peace campaigner. I’m very much looking forward to continuing to support Gemma with her postgraduate studies.
Gemma Waite’s achievement reflect the very best of what our students can aspire to: intellectual curiosity, ethical commitment and a deep engagement with community and culture. Her passion for Welsh-medium education and her outstanding contribution to both academic and outreach work make her a truly deserving recipient of the Gwobr Merêd. We are incredibly proud.
Gemma deserves praise and recognition for her work and contribution towards Welsh and bilingual education in the higher education sector. She raises the profile and status of the Welsh language in her institution and holds it to the highest standards. We would like to thank her for her work, and wish her every success in the future.