Urdd Gobaith Cymru

Through this strategic partnership, the Urdd and RWCMD offer a series of prestigious awards at Eisteddfod yr Urdd, one of Europe’s largest youth arts festivals. These awards provide opportunities for exceptional young creatives aged 19–25, including:

• Mentoring from world leading professionals across music, drama, dance and production.
• Performance and professional development opportunities on national and international stages.
• Financial support towards future training in their chosen disciplines.

The initiative reflects both organisations’ belief in nurturing creative potential and strengthening Wales’ cultural landscape through meaningful experiences and pathways into professional careers.

Together, the Urdd and RWCMD have introduced six brand new awards, each named for and championed by leading Welsh figures in the arts. Winners receive tailored mentoring and development opportunities, recognising outstanding talent in:

• The Sir Bryn Terfel Award (singing)
• The Amy Dowden Award (dance)
• The Callum Scott Howells Award (musical theatre)
• The Matthew Rhys Award (acting)
• The Rakhi Singh Award (instrumental performance)
• The Sarah Hemsley-Cole Award (backstage & technical)

Winners participate in personalised mentoring sessions with their award ambassadors, gaining skills, insight and professional experience that can propel their artistic careers forward.

By working together, the Urdd and RWCMD are ensuring that the creative ambition of Wales’ young people is recognised and championed. The collaboration brings together one of Wales’ most significant youth cultural platforms with the national conservatoire’s expertise in professional arts training .

Urdd Gobaith Cymru is Wales’ largest national youth organisation and provides sports, arts, volunteering, apprenticeship, outdoor pursuits, humanitarian, international and residential opportunities for children and young people through the Welsh language. Eisteddfod yr Urdd is one of Europe’s largest youth touring festivals.