Our Welsh Story

Belonging, Heritage, and Celebration at The CAE

St David’s Day is more than a date on the calendar — it is a moment to reflect on what it means to be part of Wales. It is a celebration of our shared heritage, our culture, and the

values that bind us together. At The CAE, we see St David’s Day as an opportunity to explore what our Welsh story truly means: creating spaces where everyone feels they belong, where traditions are shared and respected, and where new voices and experiences can contribute to the Wales we are building together.

For us, the Welsh story is about inclusion. It is about celebrating the diversity of our communities — the mix of cultures, languages, backgrounds, and generations — and recognising that each person adds to the tapestry of modern Wales. It is about passing on traditions while making space for new ones, ensuring everyone feels welcome to take part in shaping the story of our nation.

Through our St David’s Day 2026 project, we are bringing that story to life in practical ways. 

Our community has come together for:

• Interactive workshops introducing Welsh traditions, stories, symbols and basic Welsh language, while creating space for participants to share their own cultural identities and explore shared values.

• A bilingual digital campaign, featuring short documentary-style videos highlighting local voices and reflections on belonging.

• A special St David’s Day episode of The Welsh Dream Podcast amplifying lived experiences of identity and integration.

• Two multicultural St David’s Day celebrations in Swansea and Carmarthenshire, showcasing both traditional and contemporary Welsh culture.

  
  

 At their heart, these activities are about more than celebration — they are about integration. They create safe, welcoming spaces where people can build confidence, share experiences, and form meaningful connections within their local community. When individuals feel seen, heard, and valued, stability begins to grow. And without that sense of stability and belonging, attainment and progression simply cannot happen. For many of the people we support, feeling part of their community is the first and most important step toward education, skills development, and employment.

Each activity, whether creative, educational, or celebratory, reinforces the sense of belonging and pride that is at the heart of our work.

These events are more than just fun — they are vital for our communities. They strengthen connections, build understanding, and create shared memories that highlight why inclusion and representation matter. They show that everyone, no matter their background or experience, has a place in Wales’ story.

Small Acts, Lasting Impact: Supporting Integration and Progression

At The CAE, we know that real change starts close to home. All of the activities we run for St David’s Day are about supporting integration and stability within our local communities.

When people feel connected, welcomed, and included, they are more likely to thrive. Integration builds trust, confidence, and a sense of belonging — the foundations needed for attainment, progression, and employability. Our core work is helping people move forward in education, training, and work. St David’s Day activities create the spaces where those steps begin: sharing experiences, learning together, and celebrating what unites us.

These small acts of connection have lasting impact. They help individuals feel part of something bigger, strengthen the social fabric of their community, and lay the groundwork for personal growth, skills development, and meaningful progression in life and work.

At The CAE, our Welsh story isn’t just about heritage; it’s about building stronger, inclusive communities where everyone can succeed.

Dewch i ni ddathlu gyda’n gilydd.

Let’s celebrate together.

Activities still to come 

• St David’s Day Celebration – Swansea at 6pm on the 27th of February 2026

• Crochet Session at 10:00 AM on the 5th of March 2026

  
  

  If you would like to join an activity or refer someone to take part, please get in touch https://www.caentr.org/contact-us

Our St David’s Day activities are proudly funded by the Welsh Government under the St David’s Day 2026 Pilot Support Fund.