Meet Hannah

Hannah Russell comes from a small village near Abergavenny, but now lives in Birmingham.  

Hannah started learning Welsh last year with Learn Welsh Glamorgan, which runs courses on behalf of the National Centre for Learning Welsh, and now uses the language every day.  She took part in the Bobi Jones Medal competition at the Urdd Eisteddfod this year. 

Here, we ask Hannah about her Learn Welsh journey… 

Where do you learn Welsh? 

I learn Welsh online every week, but I was in Aberystwyth for a month on the intensive Learn Welsh course.  I also use SaySomethinginWelsh, and I listen to Welsh music to learn new expressions and words. 

What is the best thing about learning Welsh? 

Meeting different people and being part of the Welsh-speaking community. 

How do you practise your Welsh outside the classroom? 

I am a member of the 'Siarad' Scheme and meet someone every week to practise speaking Welsh, and I go to a coffee morning on Saturdays.  Also, I enjoy reading about the history of Wales in Welsh. 

What is your goal with Welsh in the future? 

One day, I hope to do a doctorate, possibly through the medium of Welsh.  I also want to live in a community where people speak Welsh every day. 

Tell us more about the experience of taking part in the Bobi Jones Medal competition at the Urdd Eisteddfod in Anglesey. 

It was an incredible experience.  It was lovely meeting the other competitors and hearing how and why they learned Welsh. 

Do you use Welsh in Birmingham? 

Yes, because I go to events with the ‘Birmingham Welsh’ group, like coffee mornings. 

What advice would you give to learners who want to learn Welsh? 

Speak, of course!  Don't worry if you make mistakes, everyone will understand what you want to say.  It doesn't matter if you don't know the Welsh word, use the Welsh that you have!