Ask Allegra

In an awards ceremony held by Learn Welsh Ceredigion, Powys, Carmarthenshire – one of the providers of the National Centre for Learning Welsh – at the 2026 National Eisteddfod, Allegra Sona Pollock received the '2025/26 Education Workforce Learner' award.

The award recognised a learner who has shown a strong commitment to learning Welsh and who uses the language to make a positive difference in the workplace. Allegra, a teaching assistant at a primary school, inspires and encourages children at her school, as well as her own children, to use and enjoy the Welsh language.

Originally from the Democratic Republic of Congo, Allegra has now settled in Aberystwyth, where Welsh has become part of her everyday life.

We asked Allegra about her Welsh-language learning journey...

What inspired you to start learning Welsh?

I have travelled a lot in my youth and learned to appreciate various cultures.

Searching to settle in the United Kingdom in my adulthood, I was captivated by the Welsh majestic and medieval scenery, as well as the rich linguistic heritage.

Where are you learning Welsh?

In my profession as a High-Level Teaching Assistant in Ceredigion, I have had many opportunities to learn the Welsh language through my school, St Padarn’s Catholic Primary School. I have recently taken the Mynediad (Entry A1) exam and passed with flying colours, thanks to my great tutor, Rhiannon Taylor. The young pupils I teach are my motivation to improve my linguistic skills.

What’s the best thing about learning Welsh? 

The best thing about learning Welsh is being able to express myself in the community confidently using basic Welsh phrases in my routine activities, beyond the classroom walls.

The Welsh language adds value to my multilinguistic aptitude, already rich from learning Latin, speaking African dialects, French and English.

Congratulations on winning the ‘Dysgwr Gweithlu Addysg’ award. How did it feel to receive this award at the National Eisteddfod?

I am truly grateful for winning the ‘Dysgwr Gweithlu Addysg’ award at the National Eisteddfod. I feel deeply honoured to be able to connect with the Welsh language, one of Europe’s oldest living languages, and to have opportunities to explore its literature, poetry, and cultural identity.

What would you say to someone thinking about learning Welsh?

Learning Welsh is accessible, stress free and really fun. I am proud to be part of this special linguistic treasure.