An aspiring filmmaker from Mountain Ash who tragically lost her mum just before starting college is celebrating a deeply personal success – achieving her A levels and earning a spot to study Film at university, after navigating one of the toughest years of her life.
Keira Swain, 18, has shown remarkable resilience and determination over the past two years while studying her Film, History and Drama A levels at Coleg y Cymoedd.
Now, she’s preparing to follow her dream of working in the film industry after achieving her desired grades and securing a place to study Film at Aberystwyth University.
Keira said: “My mum passed away just as I was due to start college and it was one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to go through. At first, I didn’t want to focus on it, so I threw myself into work as a distraction. But underneath it all, I was really struggling. I didn’t think I had a future, let alone one at university.”
Keira’s tutors noticed her early struggles and encouraged her to accept support from the college, referring her to its Wellbeing and Safeguarding team. With time, she began to work through her grief and eventually found a new purpose – turning her pain into a powerful source of motivation.
”One of my tutors noticed my grades slipping and urged me to reach out for help, which I did. The support I received at college from tutors and counsellors made a huge difference. I realised I could use what I’d been through to push myself harder and achieve my goals. I wanted to do well for my mum – to make her proud.”
Keira went on to thrive in her studies, especially in creative subjects like film, where she discovered a love for storytelling and directing.
She has also spent the last 10 years involved with the performance group ‘Drama Kids’, where she helps lead a youth group for children aged 4-8, developing the leadership and collaboration skills she’ll need for her future career.
After visiting Aberystwyth’s film department last autumn, Keira knew it was the right fit. The three-year film course offers a hands-on approach to filmmaking, opportunities to attend international film festivals, and the chance to collaborate with other creatives – all of which matched her goals.
Keira hopes that the degree will provide her with the practical and written foundations needed to take her first steps into the industry.
Looking ahead, Keira hopes to become a screenwriter and director, telling meaningful stories and giving a voice to those who often go unheard.
“The course at Aberystwyth really suits how I learn. It’s practical and collaborative, and I felt instantly at home on campus.
“I’ve always been passionate about storytelling through film. I love the creative process of bringing ideas to life on screen and collaborating with others to make something meaningful. In the future, I want to create films that inspire people – stories that really say something.
“I didn’t think university would ever be an option for me, but thanks to Coleg y Cymoedd and the people who believed in me, I’m now on my way. I’m so excited to take the next step.”
