Ask Nicola

Here, we chat to Nicola Stokes, who’s learning Welsh at Canolradd/Intermediate level with Learn Welsh Gwent.  Nicola works for Learn Welsh Gwent as an Information Data Officer and uses Welsh in her role.

Tell us a little about yourself?

I’m from Pontypool and have lived in the area since I was born.  I went to Pontypool College after I left school and ended up working for Coleg Gwent a few years later, which eventually led me to work for Learn Welsh Gwent, which is run by Coleg Gwent.

Why did you decide to learn Welsh?

I started learning Welsh due to my job initially, but working with many amazing colleagues who speak Welsh every day, made me want to learn the language even more, and challenge myself.

Do you use your Welsh at work?

Yes, I try to use as much Welsh as I can at work by speaking to people and writing emails.

Is working through the medium of Welsh important to you?

Yes, I feel I’m able to get more involved in work when I join in, and use my Welsh with others.

What’s the best thing about learning Welsh?

The best thing about learning Welsh is meeting new people and enjoying using what I’ve learnt with colleagues and friends.  Also having the opportunity to use Welsh within my work is a great feeling and achievement.

You took part in a promotional video for Learn Welsh Gwent over the summer, how was that?

It was great to be part of the video over the summer, with the aim of showing others the benefits of learning Welsh.

Do you have any advice for other Welsh learners?

My advice is to stick with it and practise as much as you can, even if it’s something small a day, it all helps.

What’s the next step for you?

The next step for me is to continue to dedicate time to learning and enjoying Welsh.