A fund aimed at supporting talented Welsh youngsters in their professional careers has been launched by Wales in London and the Community Foundation in Wales.
The Wales in London Philanthropic Fund will be dedicated to supporting talent nurtured in Wales, and will see individuals receive bursaries upon successful application.
The fund was recently launched at an event in London, where Wales in London members were asked to commit at least £1,000 to the endowment.
The event proved to be a great success, raising more than £20,000 to kick-start the new initiative.
Every pound raised by the fund will also be matched by the Community Foundation for Wales, which runs a similar initiative that has supported numerous talented Welsh individuals.
Chairman of Wales in London, Huw Hampson-Jones said: “Whether they are scientists, writers, mathematicians or musicians, we are looking to help those who need financial support to fulfil their ambitions, either in Wales or further afield.
“The idea is for successful Welsh individuals to help support the next generation and give something back to Wales. We hope that when individuals who have received support become successful, then one day they too will contribute to the fund themselves.
“The initiative has been received very well and has attracted generous support. We are looking forward to seeing the fund go from strength to strength over the next five years.”
The Foundation is already helping Welsh talent to prosper – Megan Smith was supported so that she could develop her legal career. Joss Maccoll was supported in developing her textile portfolio and the acclaimed Steffan Rhys Hughes, a young singer, who had already established himself as a successful and consistent performer at both the Youth and National Eisteddfodau in Wales has also been supported.
At the launch event, guests were joined by Harry Bingham, author of the trilogy that features the Welsh detective Fiona Griffiths.
Now in its Wales in London is a London-based professional network, which offers a network in the city that supports Welsh interests and causes.
The Society acts as a bridgehead between London and Wales for individuals and organisations seeking advice, opportunities and access to contacts; and it promotes Wales and the interest of Welsh exiles in and around London.