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Ask Josh Osborne, winner of the Learners' Medal at the 2022 Denbighshire Urdd Eisteddfod

Ask Josh Osborne, winner of the Learners' Medal at the 2022 Denbighshire Urdd Eisteddfod

First of all, congratulations! How did it feel to win the Learners' Medal at the 2022 Denbighshire Urdd Eisteddfod?

I was very happy to have won the Learners' Medal at the Urdd Eisteddfod and very grateful to my tutors. I had never been to an Eisteddfod before, and had never heard of an Eisteddfod before I started learning Welsh during the first lockdown. It was a very special experience.

I loved the Denbigh area and I was amazed with the weather we had there - from the threatening black clouds in the morning, to the lovely sunshine in the afternoon.

Why did you start learning Welsh?

I started learning Welsh because my girlfriend, Angharad, speaks Welsh. But, the person who inspired me to carry on learning was Helen Prosser, my first online tutor.

What has helped you most learning Welsh?

I think one of the things that helped me the most when I started learning was using the SaySomethinginWelsh app hand-in-hand with my Learn Welsh course.  That's how I gained the confidence to speak Welsh, and I used to listen to the app while washing up!

I also think it's important for everyone to learn at a pace that works for them. I love doing the intensive courses, and want to learn quickly, but everyone is different and it doesn't matter how fast you learn.

Who’s your favourite Welsh band?

I really like Swnami’s song ‘Beth bynnag fydd’,  and I also like 'Eto' by Adwaith.

What’s your favourite Welsh TV programme?

I don't have a TV!

Who do you follow on social media that posts in Welsh?

I like Bronwen Lewis on TikTok.

What's the best thing about speaking Welsh?

Being an extrovert, I really enjoy meeting so many new people. I love talking to other people who are learning Welsh in lessons too.

What's next on your language journey?

I've just finished my Advanced Level 2 intensive course, and plan to do an Advanced Level 3 course in September. But maybe I’ll do a normal course this time, rather than the intensive ones that I have been doing over the last 18 months!