Leaders of Now: Growing Impact Across Wales
We were delighted to celebrate another successful year of SRtRC Wales’ Leaders of Now programme as cohorts of secondary school ambassadors from North East Wales and Newport came together to share their work and reflect on a year of meaningful anti-racism action.
On 29th April, around 70 guests gathered at the Grosvenor Pulford Hotel to celebrate the achievements of our Wrexham & Denbighshire Leaders of Now. Pupils from four schools presented the anti-racism work they have developed and led over the past academic year, supported by Show Racism the Red Card and their school staff leads.
The schools involved were:
- Christ the Word Catholic School, Rhyl
- Ysgol Clywedog, Wrexham
- The Maelor School, Penley
- Ysgol Morgan Llwyd, Wrexham
Each school delivered a short presentation highlighting their journey, challenges, and impact.
The following day, on 30th April, we were proud to host our very first Leaders of Now celebration event in Newport, marking an exciting expansion of the programme into South Wales. This inaugural cohort brought together ambassadors from six schools, each sharing their inspiring work with guests.
Young ambassadors from the following schools presented:
- Ysgol Gyfun Gwent Is Coed
- Llanwern High School
- Lliswerry High School
- Newport High School
- St Joseph’s RC High School
- St Julian’s High School
Across both events, pupils spoke passionately about the work they had undertaken and the difference it has made within their schools.
It was also fantastic to see the thoughtful and engaging discussions sparked among guests at both events, with many reflecting on how the pupils’ work could inspire further action in their own settings.
Feedback from attendees highlighted the power and impact of the programme:
“This work is so vital. It educates and empowers students to challenge racism and prejudice. When students deliver important messages and information so passionately and clearly, it resonates with other young people.”
One attendee reflected on the wider significance of the event and the young people involved:
“I was delighted to attend the Leaders of Now celebration. What inspiring young people and what amazing work they are doing… Their approach was, I thought, very brave, honest and powerful. I found it quite emotional… The young people doing this work now are laying the foundations for long term positive change and it gives me hope for the future. Da iawn!”
As the programme continues to grow, it is especially exciting to see its reach extend into new areas, building a wider network of young leaders committed to anti-racism.
SRtRC Wales would like to extend a huge thank you to all ambassadors and school staff leads for their dedication and hard work this year, as well as to our funders and guests for their continued support.