Local community heroes from across Wales have been recognised at the first BBC Cymru Wales Make a Difference Awards.
Launched in Wales for the first time this year, the BBC Make a Difference Awards celebrate and recognise people and groups who do incredible things for each other and their local communities, shining a light on these everyday, unsung heroes.
This year’s winners were presented with their accolades in a special ceremony at Cardiff’s Hoddinott Hall yesterday (20 September 2025), hosted by BBC Radio Wales’ Lucy Owen and BBC Radio Cymru’s Caryl Parry Jones.
From over 700 nominations, a shortlist of 32 finalists was drawn up and eight brilliant winners were selected by a special panel of judges, made up of reggae artist and BBC Radio Wales presenter Aleighcia Scott; singer-songwriter and BBC Radio Wales’ new Morning Show host Bronwen Lewis; BBC Morning Live presenter Gethin Jones; naturalist and BBC presenter Iolo Williams; DJ and BBC presenter Katie Owen; Wales’ first female professional boxing world champion Lauren Price; Paralympian Olivia Breen, who was named BBC Cymru Wales’ Sports Personality of the Year in 2022; and BBC Radio 2’s Early Breakfast Show host Owain Wyn Evans.
Among the winners is Bangor-based performing arts group, Maes-G ShowZone, who clinched the Community Group Award. Category judge Gethin Jones said: “Picking an overall winner was so, so tough. Thank you to all of you for the incredible work that you do. What’s been created by our winner is a symbol of resilience, inclusivity and community spirit. It’s a lifeline for young children, some of whom have had the toughest start to life. A safe space, no judgement, and they’re not hindered because of something that is out of their control.”
Also recognised for their commitment to their community is Robin Jones from the Farm Fit Club in Mold, who was named winner of the Active Award. Category judge Lauren Price explains: “Farm Fit Club created a community that changes lives. People have gone from complete beginners to competitors but more importantly they’ve seen huge boosts in mental health. They bring people together who’d have never met, creating friendships, adventures and support networks that go far beyond a gym. The passion, vision, genuine care, and transforming lives is why they’re truly making an active difference.”
Garmon Rhys, Interim Director of BBC Cymru Wales, said: “We’re thrilled by the response we’ve had for our very first BBC Make a Difference Awards in Wales. Over 700 nominations speaks volumes about the brilliant people we have across Wales who are doing incredible things for their communities. Congratulations and llongyfarchiadau to the eight inspiring winners of this year’s awards and to everyone who was shortlisted and nominated.”
2025 winners:
Volunteer Award – Shani Stephens, Ty Fforest Hub, Swansea – this community hub offers a range of support services for the people of Swansea, including foodbank and food share schemes. Shani helps people from across Swansea, including victims of domestic abuse, veterans and the homeless.
Community Group Award – Maes-G ShowZone, Gwynedd – a performing arts group run entirely by dedicated volunteers, the club provides a safe, inclusive space where every child, regardless of background, disability, or financial situation, is given the chance to shine.
Fundraiser Award – Katy Yeandle and Emma Rees, Carmarthenshire – Joseph was three years old when he lost his fight to Neuroblastoma cancer in December 2021. In Joseph’s legacy, his family started the charity, Joseph’s Smile, to fundraise for other families who are in need of specialised support. So far, they’ve raised a total of half a million pounds for the cause which has provided medical equipment and treatment for children.
Young Hero Award – Skye Neville, Gwynedd – a 14-year-old environmental campaigner who has inspired young people to take positive action through her campaign of KAPtat – Kids Against Plastic tat – a campaign to remove millions of pieces of pointless plastic from children’s comics. Working with charities, Skye’s campaign has now been adopted by schools nationwide.
Great Neighbour Award – Sharon Beck, Flintshire – Sharon has created a much needed community hub in the heart of Buckley. Offering a range of community groups and classes, including a men’s weekly café, a choir group, a knit and natter, pop-up classes for children, exercise sessions and craft fairs.
Active Award – Robin Jones, Farm Fit Club, Flintshire – livestock and dairy farmer, personal trainer, coach, business manager, and mental health advocate Robin is the founder of a new exercise initiative and not-for-profit, Farm Fit Club, which provides an inclusive exercise space for around 250 people every week.
Green Award – Martin Draper, On the Verge, Powys – Martin’s aim is to create and maintain wildflower habitats and increase environmental awareness through education and influence. Starting with an idea in Talgarth to leave local verges unmown and create a community garden, he has brought together a group of like-minded volunteers and created the 1Metre Matters brand, an initiative which is now being adopted by councils across Wales.
Animal Award – Sion Telor the therapy dog, Gwynedd – Sion Telor is a Border Collie, offering a valuable contribution to the Pontio-based Dance for Parkinson’s classes, making members feel more comfortable and relaxed.
