Award Winners 2025
Congratulations to the winners of the BBC Cymru Wales Make a Difference Awards in 2025
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.
