A BAFTA-winning tech developer has launched an immersive Welsh language children’s book series thanks to funding from the Start Up Loans programme.
Osian Evans, 49, was part of the BBC team behind the pioneering Walking with Beasts, one of the UK’s first on demand multi-stream applications, as well as the channel’s Wimbledon Interactive and Digital Text platforms.
He has now launched his company Goiawn (which translates as real) and collaborates with teachers and parents to help engage children in a transformative learning journey.
“Goiawn presents captivating reading activities which take entire classes on an adventure while enhancing written and verbal communication,” said father of three Osian, who has 25 years’ experience in the educational entertainment sector.
Y Fideo Diogelwch (The Security Video) is the first in the Antur Amser (An Adventure in Time), learning programme; a comic-style sci-fi adventure story about twins Gruff and Gwen, who live on Mars in 2113.
Their struggles include tracking down a security video to clear their parents’ name and fighting against an evil corporation – as well as finding the pack of biscuits that Gruff hid under his bed weeks ago.
Osian, from Carmarthenshire, studied Engineering and Technology at Cardiff University and runs Moilin, an app development company with clients including Welsh language channel S4C and the National Eisteddfod of Wales.
“Our pilot programme is setting the stage for a nationwide tour in 2025,” said Osian. “I am dyslexic and have ADHD and appreciate the value of focusing on the magical world of Antur Amser, to inspire young minds to be creative, to collaborate and to problem-solve through multiplayer games that challenge them to apply their knowledge and skills.”
Goiawn’s pilot programme is currently delivered across schools involved in the ARFOR scheme, which is a joint venture between Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion, Gwynedd and Anglesey councils to support entrepreneurship and economic development and help the Welsh language to prosper.
It was a ‘Meet the Funder’ event at The Shard in London, arranged by Tramshed Tech in partnership with the British Business Bank, which led Osian to apply for a £15,000 Start Up Loan this summer.
The loan has enabled him to invest in the platform’s digital elements, including web development and a Roblox offering. His future ambitions include employing some of the seven-strong team of freelancers he currently works with.
“Our 2025 school tour will bring this transformative learning experience to classrooms across Wales,” said Osian. “While initially available only in Welsh, we are committed to expanding our offerings to include a second language version in the coming year.
“We are passionate about inspiring the next generation of learners through entertainment and education and through using original stories to spark young minds at home and in school. Goiawn is an adventure to inspire curiosity, creativity, and a love for learning in young explorers and reluctant readers.”
The British Business Bank Start Up Loans programme provides government backed loans of up to £25,000 per individual, up to a maximum of £100,000 per business. In addition to finance, successful applicants receive free mentoring, access to resources and advice.
Jess Phillips-Harris, Senior Manager for Wales at the British Business Bank said: “Osian has combined his passions for education and entertainment to create an inspiring offering for teachers, schools and young learners.
“The British Business Bank’s Start Up Loans programme exists to support entrepreneurs like Osian in his ambitions to impact positively on the future of education and learning.
“We’re thrilled to support this exciting, innovative business and wish Osian every success.”
