Author and performer Mari Elen has gained a British Podcast Award for Gwrachod Heddiw, a Welsh-language podcast she created throughout lockdown.
Mari, who graduated from USW in 2015 from BA Theatr a Perfformio, picked up the title of Greatest Welsh Podcast on the awards, which showcase the perfect podcasts within the UK and encourage new audiences to hear.
Gwrachod Heddiw, which interprets to ‘Witches As we speak’, celebrates a few of the most outspoken ladies in Wales, generally known as femme – a time period that refers to a queer particular person whose gender expression is taken into account to be female – by discussing whether or not they share any traits with typical witches.
“I felt that femme voices have been being under-represented within the Welsh language, and that there wasn’t a podcast that celebrated every little thing that makes us distinctive,”
mentioned Mari, who lives in Llanrug, Gwynedd.
“The podcast compares femme folks with typical witches from the sixteenth century, as we strive to determine whether or not we might be punished for being ourselves again then.”
Mari determined to create a Welsh-language podcast as they’re rising in reputation on streaming platforms reminiscent of Spotify, Buzzsprout and SoundCloud.
She mentioned:
“Welsh is my first language; it’s what I converse to my dad and mom, my youngsters, my companion, my mates and my household. It’s a language I really feel extra comfy talking, studying and listening.
“Having extra Welsh podcasts and blogs makes the language extra accessible, not just for Welsh audio system, however for individuals who wish to be taught. It exhibits that the language is creating with the trendy world. There are nearly 200 Welsh language podcasts, all of which discuss completely different matters and points which, for my part, is essential for the language to thrive.”
The British Podcast Awards judging panel mentioned:
“The presenter’s type is heat and interesting, bringing out the perfect from the visitors and making the podcast enchantment to everybody. The intimate type and wonderful sound high quality encourages listeners to really feel part of the dialog and group because the presenter asks for listener experiences.”
Mari added:
“I really feel on prime of the world to have gained this award. I began the podcast on my own throughout lockdown; I haven’t obtained any funding (in actual fact, I’m out of pocket doing it) nevertheless it’s been value it, as a result of it’s a small a part of my inventive life which I’ve full management over.
“I’m presently writing a couple of exhibits, and I want to get some funding to do some stay Gwrachod Heddiw podcasts. I’ve been performing some over the summer season in festivals and it’s been a lot enjoyable, so I’d like to do extra!”
