Fforwm Iaith Ynys Môn (Anglesey Welsh Language Forum) has appointed Annwen Morgan as its new chair. She replaces Dr Haydn Edwards who stepped down in July after six years in the role.
Annwen Morgan is a long-standing advocate of the Welsh language on Anglesey. Raised in Llaneilian, she received her education at Ysgol Syr Thomas Jones, Amlwch. She graduated with a BA in Welsh from Bangor University before receiving a postgraduate certificate in education. Her career began as a Welsh teacher at Ysgol Uwchradd Bodedern. In 1994 she became head of department and the school’s headteacher in 2007.
Annwen’s time as an educator came to an end in 2016 when she accepted a position as assistant chief executive at Anglesey County Council. She was made chief executive in August 2019, just months before the COVID-19 pandemic. As well as leading the county council through that challenging period, she spoke for the Welsh language on the senior leadership team. Her achievements during that time include preparing the council’s Welsh language promotion strategy and leading plans to increase the use of Welsh within the administration.
Speaking about her appointment, Annwen Morgan said: “I would like to thank Dr Haydn Edwards for his stewardship over the last six years.
“It is a privilege to be appointed chair by members of the Fforwm Iaith; a forum with which I have a long and fond association. I look forward to supporting and leading this exceptional group of organisations who work hard to maintain and develop the Welsh language on Anglesey.”
Supporting Annwen in the role will be Dr Lowri Angharad Hughes who was appointed vice-chair at a recent meeting at Oriel Môn, Llangefni. Also from Anglesey, Lowri represents Bangor University on the forum where she works as head of policy and development and associate vice-chancellor.
Councillor Dafydd Roberts, who holds the education and Welsh language portfolio on Anglesey County Council’s executive committee, said: “It is reassuring to know that the Fforwm Iaith is in the hands of such experienced and committed individuals. I have no doubt that its influence and expertise will continue to grow under their leadership.”
Fforwm Iaith Ynys Môn was established in 2014 by Anglesey County Council with Menter Iaith Môn (Anglesey’s Welsh language initiative) and other key partners. It aims to encourage collaboration between organisations for the benefit of the Welsh language locally. Its members include over 30 public and third sector organisations.
You can find out more about the forum by visiting is page on the Anglesey County Council website or emailing [email protected].
