As I took my final steps on Welsh soil, the memories flooded back. Between roaming the streets with Liam Mackay and Josh Brunette or marching into Cardiff City Center for a night out, I learned a few things.
I was extremely fortunate to earn a spot on the Transatlantic Storytelling team. Upon my acceptance, I began to envision what would become of the 12 days in Wales. Shortly, I told my parents that I would have the opportunity of a lifetime. While bags were being packed and checklists were being evaluated, the trip rapidly approached.
As the plane touched down in Wales, our team was welcomed with a gloomy and rainy day. For myself, the jet lag hit me like a wall and I fell victim to it. After the first few days of sightseeing, we got right to work.
All 16 of us had the amazing opportunity to experience new cultures. However, I felt that my project, in cohesion with Josh Brunette, permitted us to experience it the most.
The two of us traveled through the streets of Ely while meeting locals at the local park or community center. Throughout my time in Wales, I appreciated time with Liam Mackay (Youth Sport Justice Coordinator). Before the trip, Josh and I had the pleasure of having a few Zoom meetings with Liam but that only allowed us to see so much of his personality.
Upon meeting Liam in person, he welcomed both of us with open arms into the community. As we winded through the community, he stopped at almost every corner to chat with locals and told us the history of Ely.
People like Liam often remind me of the culture surrounding the greater Welsh area. He focuses on his local community intending to build not only the best future athletes, but humans. People like Liam are why Wales is so special. A country run by people who are simply passionate about their nation.
Upon diving into our story, I saw a rougher side of Wales. Ely is a part of Cardiff where many are overlooked by the government and larger organizations. According to crimerate.co.uk, the Ely area has a crime rate 84 percent higher than the whole of Wales, mostly violent offenses.
From the moment we started the editing process, I took immense pride in knowing that we could tell the story of those who could not. I am elated to finally reveal the finished product in the world premiere June 13 and hope it helps bring attention to the volunteers like Liam cultivating positive change.
In short, this trip impacted the way I live my life today. Whether I was venturing through the lush beaches and scenery of the Gower, or navigating the stone path in Ely I appreciated it all.
Upon returning to the States, I have learned to seek everything as an opportunity to learn. Enjoy every moment in the peaks and the valleys.