The annual Carmarthenshire learner and tutor awards took place at the Selwyn Samuel Centre, Llanelli to celebrate the success of adult learners and tutors from around Carmarthenshire.
Every year nominations are sought for learners who have returned to learn, who have achieved significant results despite overwhelming barriers, and for tutors for their outstanding teaching and support.
This year two people have been supported by Genesis and have won the awards in the Community Learner and Art Categories.
Shelly Hobson from Tumble who won the Community Learning Award started her journey last year with the Genesis course in the community then went on to do hairdressing at Coleg Sir Gar, Pibwrlwyd.
Genesis advisor, Liz Reeves-Davies said:
“Shelly, a single mum to three young children, has demonstrated commitment and determination throughout her courses. Despite her shyness she has become a student rep and has won the ‘learner of the month’ award. Shelly intends to continue at college until she reaches her achievement goals.”
The Art award went to another Genesis participant, Donna Pennington from Crosshands. Donna has been attending life drawing and portraiture classes run by Carmarthenshire Community Education in Carmarthen.
Juggling parental responsibilities alone, Donna chose to study part time in order to achieve the balance between her learning and home life. She has succeeded in completing both her courses and is an outstanding artist with a very bright future. Donna intends to become self employed and is currently sourcing further learning opportunities related to business start up and additional art courses. In addition to her self employment she would also like to teach adults herself and hopes to study to gain a qualification to do this in the next year.
In addition, the Tutor Award for Community Development went to Debbie Worth of Options Associates for her amazing work with Genesis participants who return to learning, often despite enormous barriers. She has worked together with Genesis to deliver courses which build confidence and move people forward in their lives. Debbie tailors her sessions to individual group needs and is successful in helping many move on to further themselves with the eventual aim to get back to work or voluntary work.
For further information or if you would like Genesis support, please call: 01554 744340 for more information.
