"Undertaking this awesome placement is one of the best decisions I’ve ever made. It’s taken me on an incredible journey; the highlight being, travelling to Australia and providing support to Team Wales for the Commonwealth Games.
In Australia, I was based at the Kurrawa Surf Club, Team Wales’ House. I was the first point of contact for family, friends, guests and the Welsh community.
I organised and managed all events held at the Surf Club including media breakfasts, a visit from HRH The Prince of Wales and Team Wales’ closing night for all athletes at the end of the Commonwealth Games.
For the events I arranged everything from catering, to staffing, to media liaising and invitations, as well as the smooth running of the events themselves. My days were long but exciting, and I can honestly say the experience was the very challenging and emotionally-draining, but I wouldn't change it for the world. I had such an amazing time and a great insight into what I want my future to look like.
Prior to the games in Australia, my work at Commonwealth Games Wales involved managing all the events for Team Wales. I’ve worked on big projects such as applying for accreditations and VISA’s for all athletes. I also helped plan the athlete’s home coming at the Senedd, Cardiff Bay, which was so rewarding as an end to the whole project.
I'm a parent, so managing the placement alongside my work commitments has been a balancing act. Being in Australia for two weeks, leaving my children at home, was really difficult but the trip was a once in a lifetime opportunity. My children are so proud that their mum was involved in such a big event.
I definitely want to work in event management in sport in the future, and this opportunity has been such a fantastic springboard for my career going forward."