Inspire Awards Celebrates the Impact of Educators in Wales
UWTSD’s Elisha Hughes is one of six exceptional tutors from across Wales who have been presented with an Inspire! Award, in recognition of their dedication to helping adults return to education and overcome barriers to learning.
An awards ceremony held at the Senedd presented awards to the individuals for their exceptional dedication to supporting adult learners across higher education, further education, workplace training, and community learning. The event, sponsored by John Griffiths, Senedd Constituency Member, featured a keynote speech from Vikki Howells, Minister for Further and Higher Education.
A community advocate since age 12, Elisha, a Student Recruitment Outreach Officer at UWTSD, co-runs Swansea’s Blaen-Y-Maes Drop-In Centre and works with the University to widen access to learning. Partnering with organisations, she creates opportunities at the Drop-In Centre to engage the local community and build pathways to further learning, including university.
Elisha’s collaboration with Crisis Skylight has helped members who were experiencing homelessness access facilities, advice, and workshops. She provides continuous support for learners, from their first steps to enrolment.
“We don’t lack ambition,” said Elisha. “We face greater barriers and unequal access to opportunities. To widen access, we must all challenge the narrative surrounding underrepresented communities.”
The Inspire! Tutor Awards, organised by Learning and Work Institute in partnership with the Welsh Government, invited nominations for individuals making an exceptional impact in educational settings across Wales, from schools to higher and further education, workplaces, and community settings.
Shaped by their individual experiences, this year’s award winners are making significant contributions to adult education in Wales, reaching communities and supporting more people to build their skills and break down barriers.
Further Information
Rebecca Davies
Executive Press and Media Relations Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: rebecca.davies@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467071