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Rachael Major, a dedicated and compassionate Youth and Community Work student, has been named winner of the Carl John Memorial Prize for Studies in Youth and Community Work at today’s (8 July) graduation ceremony at the ���Ҵ�ý (UWTSD).

The award recognises Rachael’s outstanding dedication to her studies, exceptional support for her peers, and unwavering commitment to the development and wellbeing of young people throughout her time at UWTSD.

Described by her programme team as a student who has “consistently gone above and beyond”, Rachael was commended for her leadership, reliability, and genuine passion for making a difference. She voluntarily peer mentored fellow students, acted as a Class Representative at Levels 4 and 6, and was always willing to step up when the team needed support.

For Rachael, this recognition is the culmination of a transformative personal and professional journey that began during the Covid-19 pandemic.

“After finishing my A levels, I wasn’t sure where I wanted to go with my career,” she explained. “I kept working in retail, but during lockdown I found myself researching Youth Work and realised it was something I could really see myself doing. I’ve always wanted to make the world a better place for young people and to be the person I needed when I was younger.”

Once restrictions eased, Rachael knew it was time to pursue her dream and UWTSD was the natural choice.
“It was close to home but had everything I wanted. The course content, the support, and the opportunities for placements really stood out.”

Throughout her studies, Rachael threw herself into learning - both in the classroom and in the field. She completed three placements over the course of her degree, each one offering new challenges and chances to grow. From using theatre as a creative outlet with Mess Up The Mess, to tackling mental health awareness projects with Foothold Cymru, and finally working directly with young people in drop-in sessions and youth clubs with Evolve Youth Service, Rachael’s hands-on experience became the cornerstone of her training.

“Placements were the highlight of the course for me,” she said. “Being part of organisations that really care about young people was so rewarding. I got to build real relationships, support their development, and see the theories I’d learnt come to life in practice.”

Her final-year dissertation focused on child trauma and adolescent development – a subject deeply aligned with her future aspirations. But balancing study, placements, and part-time work wasn’t without its challenges.

“Time management was tough. I had to create daily schedules to make sure I could study, work, and also give myself proper breaks. It made a huge difference because taking care of yourself is part of being able to support others.”

The hard work has paid off as Rachael graduated as a professionally qualified youth worker and has already started her first role with Evolve, where she is thriving.

“I’m now working as a youth hub worker, and I’m loving it. I’m getting experience across all areas – from schools to project work and outreach. The course helped me gain so much confidence. I no longer doubt myself, and I wouldn’t be where I am today without the support of my lecturers and placement colleagues.”

Looking ahead, Rachael is keen to continue developing her skills, gaining further training, and exploring the many pathways Youth Work has to offer.

“There are so many different directions this career can take. I’m excited to keep learning, growing, and making a difference. Winning this award is such an honour and it feels like a celebration of everything I’ve worked so hard for.”

The Carl John Memorial Prize is awarded in honour of Carl John, a former youth worker, UWTSD youth work lecturer and graduate, and recognises excellence in youth and community studies. The university congratulates Rachael Major on her achievement and looks forward to seeing the impact she will continue to make in the sector.

Further Information

Arwel Lloyd

Principal PR and Communications Officer    
Corporate Communications and PR    
Email:  arwel.lloyd@uwtsd.ac.uk    
Phone: 07384 467076