Bridging Communities at Swansea Arena
Success is never a straight line
Last month, I had the pleasure of being part of the Bridging Communities event at Swansea Arena, a day dedicated to celebrating connection, culture, and creativity.
The event was brilliantly organised by Karen and Jacob Henry, and it was clear how much effort and passion went into shaping the day. The agenda was packed — from storytelling and creative arts to music and performance — all designed to bring people together and highlight the strength of community.
Events like this don’t just happen. They require vision, determination, and collaboration. With the support of The National Lottery Community Fund, the Bridging Communities event became more than a programme of activities; it became a space where generations, cultures, and communities came together to share, celebrate, and connect.
I was honoured not only to work with the Vibe team but also to contribute as a speaker, sharing part of my own story. Growing up in a South Wales mining community taught me the importance of resilience and self-belief. My journey into media and communications, and later into running different businesses, has been filled with both highs and lows.
The message I shared was simple: life and success are never a straight line. Setbacks and challenges are part of the journey, and it’s how we respond to them that shapes who we become.
Walking away from the event, what struck me most was the energy in the room — a collective sense of unity, positivity, and determination to build stronger connections across communities.
A huge congratulations once again to Karen and Jacob for creating such a powerful and inspiring day.
