A16-YEAR-old who is well-known for her generous spirit and ability to build confidence in others through karate has been recognised for making a difference to Welsh life.
Remarkable Bethan Owen has been named as a St David Awards finalist.
Bethan, of Bodelwyddan, has already won a string of accolades. She has been honoured at the Pride of Sport Awards, received a Point of Light Award from Prime Minister Theresa May and a British Citizen Youth Award.
Bethan being interviewed
Since the age of five, the sixth form pupil at Ysgol Emrys ap Iwan in Abergele, has been helping her father Garry care for her mother Julie who suffers from epilepsy. The young carer was introduced to karate by her parents to give her a focus away from her responsibilities at home.
By the age of 12, Bethan was a black belt and a qualified karate instructor. She then set up a not-for-profit club that caters for carers of all ages. She teaches classes in Rhyl.
Speaking to the Journal about being a finalist - in the young person category - Bethan said: “It is amazing and I am so happy to be representing North Wales.
Bethan was presented with this dove pin
“When I found out, it was hard to believe that I was a finalist. I found out by letter and I am just so happy to be a finalist, even if I don’t win, I’m proud to represent North Wales.”
Bethan, who runs a not-for-profit karate club for other young carers, was invited to meet other finalists at a reception in Cardiff last week, ahead of the ceremony on March 21.
“It was a great couple of days away, it was the best experience I’ve had,” she added.
“It was amazing to meet other finalists and what they are doing for their community.
“Everyone was so polite and lovely.”
First Minister Mark Drakeford
Bethan, who is also a police cadet, and the other finalists, received a St David’s Award dove pin badge during the St David’s Award event in Cardiff.
Bethan’s dad, Garry, said: “This really means a lot to Bethan, the Welsh connection. She was presented with a pin of a dove. We don’t know if she will win, as she is up against a lot of other remarkable people, but just being in Cardiff the other day was enough. It was wonderful.
“It was truly different to the other events we have been to. She has always wanted to achieve something that has been connected with her own country. Cardiff is great, people were so friendly. There was a lady playing the harp, I thought it was music playing from the speakers.
“It means a lot to me and a lot to Julie that Bethan has been nominated. She was shocked when she received the letter, she keeps all her accolades and awards in her room.”
Bethan, who is working towards her third degree black belt, is taking her students to the Martial Arts Awards 2019 and is hosting her own event in October.
The St David Awards are the national awards of Wales and recognise extraordinary achievements and contributions of people in, or from, Wales and from all walks of life.
First Minister Mark Drakeford said: “These awards are a celebration, acknowledging some amazing and remarkable people. Each of the finalists have made a significant difference - overcoming adversity and achieving something truly inspirational.
“All of our St David Awards finalists are exceptional - every person and organisation is a credit to our nation.”
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