Ask Wynne

Here, we chat to Wynne Jordan from Canada, who moved to Wales in 2023.  Shortly after, she started learning Welsh with Learn Welsh Swansea Bay Area, which is run by Swansea University on behalf of the National Centre for Learning Welsh.

Why did you start learning Welsh?

After I moved to Wales, I felt a duty to learn Welsh.  I was raised in a bilingual area in Canada, so I think it’s important to learn another language.

What advice do you have for other learners?

I find Duolingo helpful as a supplement to my course.  I also find the digital resources with Dysgu Cymraeg helpful.

Apart from attending classes, what else helps you with practising your Welsh?

I sing with Côr Tŷ Tawe, where everything is in Welsh.  The singing helps my pronunciation, and the choir leader’s facial expressions also help a lot!  I also enjoy going to other events at Tŷ Tawe like coffee mornings and the occasional concert.

What are your interests?

I really enjoy spending time with my new grandson and his parents in Cardiff.  I also enjoy playing piano, walking, and being part of the Rosehill Quarry Park community in Swansea.

How has your life changed since beginning to learn Welsh?

Socially, I have found that learning the language is a lovely way to meet people.  It’s also nice to be able to understand the meaning of place names now.

Do you have any family members or friends who speak Welsh?

Some of my friends are Welsh speakers, and some are learners.  I want to help my grandson with his Welsh-learning, once he is old enough to talk.

Have you got a favourite Welsh word?

Ofnadwy! (Terrible)

What’s next with learning Welsh?

I hope to finish the Canolradd/Intermediate level, and move on to Uwch/Advanced level next year.