Media Academy Cymru has a skilled, diverse team working across 17 current services. Employing talented, passionate individuals with many existing professional qualifications, we also strive for staff to undertake a youth work qualification as part of their induction, so that we remain relevant to CYP and consistent with our core values.
Mr Bear is one of the MAC office dogs who can generally be found lazing around upstairs or in the counselling room with young people to help them get over their nerves. He is a toy poodle who likes nothing more than a rub on the belly.
Penguin is one of the MAC office dogs who loves nothing more than a cuddle and a biscuit. She is beautiful, has fur like velvet and is an emotionally intelligent genius. She is a miniature Schnauzer who likes to sit next to Mel in the office and follows Sarah wherever she goes.
Adam is a Film, Media & Content creation tutor at MAC. He has experiences from multiple creative fields. He started his artistic journey in stop motion animation and moved into film, working on numerous short and feature films. After having a family, Adam undertook a Sculpture Degree and a Master’s Degree in Moving Image, before landing a role with Welsh Cycling as a Video Journalist, creating high-quality event videos for bike races in Wales. Adam has a passion for teaching creativity – it’s a muscle that can be trained just like any other, and even those of us who believe we’re not creative are more creative than we think!
Anwen is a Cerridwen Case Manager working with Young People between 10-17. She is a first-language Welsh speaker with a Master’s degree in Forensic Psychology and four years’ experience working in the criminal justice field. Anwen is passionate about understanding behaviour, helping people feel heard, and making a positive difference. In her spare time, she loves travelling, discovering new places, and going on long, peaceful walks with her dog, Delyth — especially along the Welsh coast.
Aşkin is passionate about working with young people, inspiring and encouraging them to become the best version of themselves and building a brighter future for both their lives and the world around them. In his free time, he loves hiking, wild camping and finding peace in the outdoors. Aşkin also volunteers with the Army Cadets as a proud Detachment Commander in Swansea, where he has dedicated over 10 years of service. Aşkin loves eating all types of food, with his favourite cuisine being Asian!
Cameron is the deputy lead of the Peer Action Collective (PAC) project. He previously was a peer researcher on the first phase of the project and now leads a team of peer researchers and supports them through their research and social action moving forward. Cameron is also the key speaker in PAC for LGBTQ+ awareness as well as PAC Cymru’s cinematographer.
Aimee has recently joined our 18-25 team as a Case Manager. She brings valuable experience from her previous role as a Prison Custody Officer, where she developed strong skills in managing challenging situations and supporting individuals through times of change. Holding a degree in Psychology with a focus on Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, Aimee is equipped with a deep understanding of behaviour and strategies to encourage resilience and positive outcomes. She is passionate about supporting young people and is committed to making a meaningful difference through her work at Cerridwen.
Ashleigh is a Cerridwen Case Manager and loves working with people. She has experience working in the criminal justice system and supporting people with complex needs, so she knows life can be tough. Ashleigh’s goal is to help people break down barriers and reach their potential. She is passionate about giving everyone a fair shot and turning challenges into wins. Outside of work, Ashleigh loves spending time with her kids… and sometimes her husband (not always!)
Ayk is a creative professional with a BA (Hons) in Concept Art for Games and Film and experience as Co-Producer and Lead Concept Artist on collaborative projects. Skilled in visual storytelling, environment and character design, and proficient in digital tools such as Photoshop and Blender, Ayk has contributed to numerous game jams and university projects. Currently working as a Game Development Tutor, Ayk, combines artistic expertise with strong mentoring skills to foster inclusive learning environments. Passionate about empowering creativity, Ayk thrives in fast-paced, collaborative settings and brings adaptability, communication, and technical proficiency to every role.
Daniel works as a case manager for the Positive Masculinity Initiative for young people aged 10-17 in Cardiff. Daniel has a degree in Criminology, Policing and Investigation. Daniel is a big lover of sports, mainly football and golf. In his spare time he loves to go watch Blackburn Rovers and the national football team.
Amy is a Parallel Lives Case Manager within the Parallel Lives Programme
Amy has completed a degree in BSc (Hons) Criminology and Criminal Justice.
Outside of work, Amy enjoys spending time with her family and friends.
Ashley is part of the Young Adult’s service, working with 18-25 year olds, covering Merthyr and RCT. He likes hip hop and collecting vinyl. He can speak Welsh and enjoys supporting young people in reaching their potential.
Britany is part of the young adult 18-25 team. Britany has a degree in Psychology and Criminology with Criminal Justice from UWE and has experience working with those who have complex needs. Britany is passionate about empowering young people and has essential life experience for the role. Britany is a food connoisseur and enjoys spending time with family, friends and creating memories.
Emily delivers Braver Choices and Mentoring for young people aged 10-17 in Cardiff and the Vale. Emily has a degree in Policing and Criminology and has previous experience of working in the justice system. In her free time, Emily enjoys finding new beaches to explore with her dog.
Grace is part of the Young Adults Services, based in Swansea. She supports young people aged 18-25, who come into the criminal justice system. She has a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice. Out of the office, She is a dog mum of two and enjoys adventures with them.
JESSICA H
Jessica is the Young Adult Service Coordinator. She has a degree in Youth work and has previously worked in roles supporting individuals with complex needs, including forensic mental health services. She also has 7 years’ experience supporting young people within the criminal justice system.In her spare time she enjoys spending quality time with family and friends, cooking & baking, travelling & exploring new places and things, going on walks & all things spiritual. She is obsessed with astrology, crystals & tarot
JAMES
James is one of our Braver Choices Case Managers who supports our Young People within the Swansea, Neath and Port Talbot areas. James holds a First-Class Diploma in Professional Policing Practice and, has experience of supporting vulnerable people within the Justice System. On his weekends he enjoys watching football, exploring Wales, gardening and spending time with loved ones.
JOANNA
Joanna is a Safety and Well-being Mentor in Swansea. Joanna has a degree in Criminology and Criminal Justice from Swansea university. In her spare time, Joanna is very outdoorsy. She loves going on long walks with her favourite walking buddy, Luna the black cockerpoo.
JESS
Jess is part of the Young Adult Service, supporting 18-25 year olds across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot to deliver interventions to prevent reoffending and provides support for a variety of needs. Jess holds an MSc in Forensic Psychology and has experience working in Prison setting’s providing educational sessions with inmates and volunteering for a mental health support line. Jess is a huge bookworm and is on her way to having an in-house library. You can often find her curled up reading a book or listening to Harry Styles in her spare time.
JOHNATHAN
John is our Swansea Hospital weapons worker, a qualified youth worker and has over five years experience in youth clubs. He was also a volunteer for the DofE programme which eventually led him to youth work. In his spare time, he enjoys spending time with family and friends. He also has a passion for motorcycles and enjoys riding his bike on a regular basis and attending charity events.
JOSH
Josh is a 18-25 Young Adult Case Manager for Gwent. He has over fourteen years of experience working with young people in a variety of different settings including youth work, education, work-based learning and housing. When not at work, Josh enjoys going on days out with his partner and foster children.
Katie is the Photography well-being tutor on the Level 2 course. She has completed a Bachelor’s and Master’s in Photography and has been a part of group and solo exhibitions of her photography work in Cardiff, Bristol, and London. Outside of MAC, Katie works on her personal photography projects as well as spending time with her friends and family, going to gigs, and running.
KATERINA
Kat has an MSc in Forensic Psychology and has previous work experience in mental health. Kat is passionate about people getting justice and the right support, and most importantly gain understanding so we can reflect it on the community we all live in. In Kat’s free time she enjoys art and nature, philosophy and physics (without math), travel and (extreme) sports, cooking, listening to music and a good book.
KEVIN
Kevin is a veteran 18-25 case manager for Cwm Taff, who has been in the role since 2015. Kevin is a qualified youth worker with over 15 years experience working directly with and supporting young people across Wales. Kevin is a Manchester United fanatic and enjoys taking part in Hyrox and spending time with his 2 children on his downtime.
Meg is a filmmaking tutor with experience across media development and production. She holds a BA in Film and a Postgraduate qualification in Documentary, which has shaped her passion for both fiction and non-fiction storytelling. Meg has taught ages 5–25 and loves sharing her passion for film, helping others ignite their creativity and explore storytelling through moving image. Outside of work, Meg enjoys peaceful hikes and a good movie night, with a particular love for horror and thrillers — the perfect juxtaposition.
Kim is part of the Cerridwen team and works as a Safety & Wellbeing Mentor. Kim has a background in youth and community and has previously worked in areas such as PRU’s, substance misuse, homelessness, and supporting young people with additional needs. Kim is interested in anything arty and is learning art therapy skills. She loves making jewellery and working with silver, spending time with her family, festivals, and music
Meg works within the Young Adult Service, supporting 18–25 year olds involved in the criminal justice system. She takes a trauma-informed approach, providing practical support around substance use, mental health, safeguarding, and wider vulnerabilities to help reduce reoffending and promote positive outcomes.
Meg holds a First-Class degree in Criminology and Psychology and has experience across custody, courts, housing, health, and early intervention services. She is passionate about meaningful engagement and helping young adults navigate complex systems with confidence. Outside of work, Meg enjoys creative projects, reading, and the occasional deep dive into true crime documentaries.
Lauren is a Cerridwen Case Manager based in Cwm Taf, working with those aged 10-17. Lauren completed her degree in Criminology and Law from Teesside University and has experience working alongside individuals with complex needs. In her spare time, Lauren enjoys walking her dog and spending time with her family and friends. She also enjoys all things, music and sport.
Melanie has worked at MAC since 2015. She is our HR, Facilities & Administration Manager and a member of the senior leadership team. She is responsible for the full lifecycle of the employment relationship (people processes, policies and procedures) and with many of the day to day internal operations of MAC. Outside of work she is a busy mum of two and enjoys socialising (especially where there is good food involved), exercising and a decent box set!
Mia is the Cerridwen Project Support and Administration Officer based in Cardiff. She has experience in retail management, has worked as a Teaching Assistant in an ALN school and is currently completing her Leadership and Management Level 4 diploma. Mia’s favourite colour is pink, she loves walking her dog Tiger and listening to music. She is half Greek and enjoys visiting her family in Corfu and she loves everything fitness!
Nicol is an Animation Tutors on the Level 3 course. She has completed a Bachelor’s and Master’s in animation and is currently, completing her PhD in Animation Adaptation. Outside work, Nicol enjoys reading a good book, writing creative short stories and baking sweet treats, including Welsh Cakes.
PAGE
Page is a Game Design Tutor who leads on the Level 3 course. She teaches game art, animation, level design and visual coding. Outside of MAC, she is a freelance game developer and enjoys spending time gardening in her allotment, especially when the sun is shining.
Rob is a Cerridwen Case Managers based in Cardiff. He has worked in the third sector for over 20 years in various roles with organisations such as Safer Wales, Techniquest, Pride Cymru and Llamau. In his spare time Rob enjoys river walks, cheesy pop music and travelling the UK. He is also partial to good zombie movie!
Sarah is an animation tutor at MAC. She has 32 years of teaching experience and has worked on children’s preschool shows such as ‘Charlie and Lola,’ ‘The Secret Show’ and ‘The Little Princess,’ as well as comedy shows including ‘2DTV’ and ‘Have I got news for you.’ Alongside teaching at MAC, Sarah is making her own animated film about climate change.
When she isn’t working, Sarah loves surfing, walking and camping. She has a cat called Cooper!
Steve delivers our Braver Choices programme for young people aged between 10 to 17 in Merthyr, Rhondda and Bridgend. He has years of experience managing charities and delivering workshops. He has volunteered for the NSPCC and as a counsellor for Childline. In his spare time he loves to spend time travelling with his family, riding his Harley Davidson and going to classic car and bike shows
Nick is the founder and Chief Executive of MAC, responsible for policy, funding and external affairs. He is also the overall safeguarding lead for the organisation. Nick is a sought after speaker on the youth justice system and non-formal educational approaches. Nick guest lectures across several universities in Wales on the Youth Justice System and Safeguarding. Working with young people for the last 35 years, he is an advocate for the delivering of youth work to empower and change lives positively. He is the 2022 Youth Work Champion in the Welsh Government Youth Excellence Awards. Nick sits on several national boards in Wales and is the current Chair of Community Music Wales.
Nik is a tutor on level 2 photography. He has a master’s degree in documentary photography and has four published books. Nik spent many years designing and building gardens but loves dogs the most.
PATRICK
Patrick is the Positive Masculinity case manager for Newport and Gwent. He is a Welsh speaker whose background is in education, and he’s committed to helping young people realise their potential. He has 3 dogs – Zeph, Wink and Hugo and enjoys going for a run or a swim. Patrick loves rock music, especially Bruce Springsteen and McFly. He’s a massive sports fan who goes to every Cardiff City home game and supports the Indianapolis Colts in the NFL.
Sam is the Deputy Chief Executive Officer responsible for ensuring that services we deliver are effective and meet the needs of the young people, families and other stakeholders we work with. Sam is a qualified youth and community education worker and is passionate about the impact a youth and community approach can have on young people’s lives and futures. Outside of work Sam enjoys spending time at his allotment attempting to grow his own produce.
Sophie works as a Cerridwen Case Manager as part of the Cerridwen service for young people aged 10-17 in Swansea. Sophie has two degrees, one in Psychology and the second a masters in Developmental and Therapeutic Play. Outside of work Sophie likes to spend time exploring new places and she loves Taylor Swift.
Nicola is a Parallel Lives Team Co-Ordinator in Cardiff. Nicola has a BSc (Hons) in Psychology and a MSc in Health Psychology. Nicola likes spending time with friends, doing sports and volunteers with an eating disorders charity in her free time.
Onismo is a multidisciplinary creative working across visual arts, film, curation, movement, and project management. With over a decade of experience across community, films, music, festivals, and development programmes, they advocate for youth work, cultural heritage, and belonging, supporting young people and emerging creatives through expressive, practice-led learning grounded in ancestral connection. They are a Film and Media Level 1 Tutor here at MAC.
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Rhys is a Cerridwen Safety and Wellbeing Case Manager and mentor working with young people ages 10-17. Rhys has a degree in Psychology from Swansea University and a background in substance use work. In his spare time, Rhys enjoys watching sport, mainly rugby and football and supports the Scarlets and Swansea City. Rhys also loves going to concerts, collecting vinyls and travelling
Sarah is the Head of Education who is committed to providing a broad, engaging and inclusive curriculum designed for every young person to realise their potential. Sarah loves dancing, quizzing, plants and Cardiff City FC.
Steph is our Youth Voice coordinator and leads a team of young people to create a movement of social change and help young people all over Wales. The team engages with governmental bodies, practitioners, and professionals to make a positive and lasting impact, to advocate for young people’s rights.
Tammie is the Cerridwen Coordinator. She has studied a degree in youth and community work. Tammie used to manage a youth hub in Swansea and be involved in Swansea’s contextual safeguarding. In her spare time, Tammie likes going on adventures outdoors, seeing beautiful views.
