Hunaniaith: Gwynedd’s Language Initiative and the Nant Gwrtheyrn Welsh Language and Heritage Centre have joined forces for the first time to hold a virtual festival to celebrate the Welsh language, and everything is for free.
Gŵyl NantIaith will be held on Saturday 31 October on AM (Am bob dim) – a Welsh language digital platform. The festival will include a combination of live sessions and workshops on Zoom and pre-recorded sessions which will be broadcast on AM during the day.
The sessions will have something for everyone, from children to adults to families and learners. There will be yoga and dance, creative writing and poetry sessions along with cookery and interesting talks from Huw Brassington and Twm Elias.
Ifan Llewelyn Jones from Hunaniaith said: “The role of a Language Initiative such as Hunaniaith is to promote the use of the Welsh language as a leisure and entertainment medium for anyone who speaks or follows it. It has been quite a challenge to continue with our work during the pandemic, but we have realised that offering online activities like this reaches new audiences.”
“Another advantage we had was the ability to contact leading organisations such as Nant Gwrtheyrn, which is on our doorstep, to collaborate in a way that benefits us both. I am fully confident that this collaboration will continue once circumstances have stabilised after this challenging period.”
Ceri Brunelli Williams, Nant Gwrtheyrn’s Communication Manager added: “Like every other organisation in Wales, ‘adapting’ is the buzz word of the year. As it is not possible to hold events on the site at present, we must adapt and consider what we can offer people online, which will also promote and support the Welsh language”.
“We have seen a massive increase over the past few months in the online content and offer that is available digitally through the medium of Welsh. From podcasts to virtual events, a vibrancy and a real interest in the language can be seen online and we are very proud to be able to join and contribute towards this vitality by collaborating with Hunaniaith.
“I hope that the day will bring some happiness and Welsh entertainment to the homes of people across Wales during the lockdown period.”
To see more details about the event or to register for a specific session, visit: www.amam.cymru/gwylnantiaith