Our WEDSA 2025 Finalists
Inclusive Sport Award
The Black Swimming Association (BSA)
The Black Swimming Association is dedicated to driving inclusion and water safety for Black and Asian communities in aquatics. Through advocacy, education, research, and consultancy, BSA works to ensure equitable access to swimming and water-based activities – from grassroots participation to leadership roles. Collaborating with government agencies, sports councils, leisure operators, and educational institutions, the organisation champions drowning prevention and promotes the physical and mental benefits of aquatics. By breaking down barriers and fostering representation, BSA is transforming the aquatic landscape to be safer, more inclusive, and reflective of African, Caribbean, and Asian heritage communities.
Llanelli Town Council
Llanelli Town Council proudly champions ethnic diversity through sport, creating inclusive opportunities in rural West Wales settings. One of its flagship initiatives, the Syrian Sir Gar football sessions, welcomes young people aged 9–16 from diverse backgrounds, with participants speaking over six languages. These weekly gatherings promote health, confidence, and friendship while celebrating cultural diversity. Working closely with schools and local groups, the council continues to break down barriers and foster community pride. Through projects like Syrian Sir Gar, Llanelli demonstrates that sport can unite communities and thrive as a force for inclusion – even in rural areas.
Welsh Wrestling Association
Formed in 2008, the Welsh Wrestling Association has grown into a diverse and inclusive sporting community. From its first Commonwealth medal in 2012 to recent successes, the association celebrates athletes of all ages, genders, faiths, and nationalities. Clubs across Wales, including one based at a mosque, bring people together through a shared passion for wrestling. This diversity strengthens the sport, creating a family-like environment where members share skills and global expertise. Recognised as British Wrestling’s 2025 Region of the Year, the association continues to raise standards and inspire success, proving that unity and inclusion are at the heart of Welsh wrestling.
Community Sport Project
Cymru Unleashed
Cymru Unleashed, founded by Osamagbe Izevbigie, is a groundbreaking cultural and sporting initiative funded by UEFA Women’s EURO 2025 and the Welsh Government. Rooted in Cardiff but reaching communities across Wales, the project blends football with creativity – using grassroots participation, cultural showcases, and storytelling to inspire inclusion. From VR exhibitions and pop-up activations to youth mentoring and workshops, Cymru Unleashed creates safe spaces for underrepresented voices and amplifies talent. Recognised nationally for his leadership, Osamagbe continues to show that sport is more than a game.
Haverfordwest Mosque Jiu-Jitsu Club
The Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Club at Haverfordwest Mosque offers a safe, positive space where young people of all faiths and backgrounds learn discipline, confidence, and teamwork. Part of the Pembrokeshire Youth Project, the club stands out for its peer-led approach: older members mentor younger ones, fostering resilience and inclusion. Beyond physical fitness, the club builds friendships and self-belief, creating a supportive environment where every achievement is celebrated. Through dedication and kindness, these young athletes have turned their club into a beacon of community spirit and opportunity in Pembrokeshire.
KidCare4U
KidCare4U is a Newport-based charity that transforms access to health, education, and sport for nine diverse ethnic communities. Starting as an out-of-school club, it now runs women’s gym and swim sessions, engaging over 150 participants weekly, and football for men aged 40+. Through partnerships, KidCare4U has trained 17 tennis coaches and six swim coaches, some now employed. As a licensed Duke of Edinburgh Award centre, it enabled 15 young people to complete their Bronze Award—many experiencing outdoor expeditions for the first time. With ESOL, integration, and employment programmes, KidCare4U continues to break barriers and create opportunities for underrepresented communities.
Rising Star of The Year
Isha Mekala
At just 15, Isha Mekala became one of Europe’s brightest badminton talents. In July 2025, she made history by winning Women’s Singles Gold at the European Youth Olympics in Skopje, representing Great Britain. Ranked No.1 junior in Europe, Isha has collected multiple international medals and is a two-time Welsh Senior National Champion – a remarkable feat at her age. Preparing for the BWF World Junior Championships in India, she continues to push boundaries and inspire young athletes. Beyond her achievements, Isha is a role model for resilience, hard work, and representation in sport, proving that dreams can be realised through dedication.
Mimi Xu
Mimi Xu’s tennis journey began in Swansea and has taken her to the world stage. In 2024, she claimed her first professional singles title and four doubles titles, including a W100 in Shrewsbury, alongside standout junior runs at Wimbledon and the US Open. In 2025, Mimi made history as the first Welsh woman in 20 years to play in Wimbledon’s main singles draw, facing Emma Raducanu on Court One. Passionate about giving back, Mimi supports projects like “She Can” to inspire young people. Her story reflects talent, perseverance, and the power of sport to unite communities.
Nathan de Vaux
Nathan de Vaux, 16, is rewriting the story of mountain biking. Competing as the youngest junior in his category, he finished 2025 as vice-British Champion and second overall in the European Continental Series, with podium finishes and top 20 results at World Cups. Representing Team GB, Nathan became the fastest British junior in Canada and the first Black junior ever selected for the national team – a milestone for diversity in the sport. Off the track, Nathan co-founded a non-profit to break barriers in mountain biking, proving that representation matters. His talent and leadership make him a true rising star.
Club of the Year
SA1 Dragons FC
Founded in 2020 by Max Rahman, SA1 Dragons FC is an inclusive, community-driven football club based in Swansea. Its mission is simple: make football accessible to every child, regardless of background. Through fundraising and grants, the club covers player fees, ensuring no young person is excluded. Beyond competitive football, SA1 Dragons focuses on life skills, confidence, and teamwork, creating a supportive environment for growth. In just five years, the club has expanded to multiple age groups, backed by dedicated volunteers and qualified coaches. Committed to safeguarding, equality, and diversity, SA1 Dragons FC is a shining example of grassroots sport that breaks barriers and builds community.
Celtic Tigers Sports Club
Celtic Tigers Sports Club in Newport is a volunteer-led organisation that champions sport, wellbeing, and inclusion. Entirely run by local volunteers, the club has achieved success on the cricket field – winning its own 100 Balls Tournament, a three-match series against Swansea Warriors, and placing third in the Portsmouth T20 Tournament. Beyond competition, the Celtic Tigers host diverse community events, including football sessions for children and tournaments in badminton and carrom, drawing participants from across Newport.
Cardiff Martial Arts
Cardiff Martial Arts began in 2005 with a small Taekwon-do class in Rumney and has grown into one of Wales’s largest martial arts communities, with over 700 members across multiple venues. Offering programmes for all ages – from Little Dragons for under-7s to Taekwondo and Kickboxing for juniors and adults, the club promotes confidence, respect, and personal growth alongside physical skills. With members from diverse cultures and backgrounds, Cardiff Martial Arts celebrates inclusion; at one point, the number of languages spoken by members exceeded 40! This family-oriented club continues to inspire and unite communities through martial arts.
Young Person of the Year
Khadija Islam
Khadija Islam is a passionate young leader dedicated to sport, culture, and community. A qualified Swim Level One Coach with Swim Wales and Tennis Level One Coach with Tennis Wales, she teaches children and adults at Newport Live Leisure Centres, helping build confidence in and around water. Beyond coaching, Khadija volunteers with KidCare4U and other local initiatives, and has completed her Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award. She also led a youth cultural fashion show that grew into a major event at ICC and Celtic Manor, celebrating Newport’s diversity. Currently studying A-Levels, Khadija continues to empower others through sport and creativity, making her a role model for young people.
Sami Ul Islam
At 17, Sami Ul Islam is committed to giving back to his community. After joining KidCare4U as a participant, he returned as a volunteer, dedicating his Saturdays to supporting activities and mentoring others. Sami has completed his Duke of Edinburgh Bronze Award and continues volunteering beyond the required hours. Alongside his community work, he plays for Newport’s football team, helps with his family business, and is studying at Monmouthshire Community Academy to gain qualifications. Sami’s journey reflects resilience, responsibility, and a desire to inspire others, making him a true ambassador for youth leadership.
Rahma Liban
Rahma Liban’s martial arts journey began at age four and has shaped her into a determined and inspiring athlete. By seven, she represented Wales at the World Karate Championships, and by eight, she was a four-time Welsh champion. Today, Rahma holds a first-degree black belt in karate and is close to earning black belts in taekwondo and kickboxing. Her achievements go beyond medals – Rahma’s mission is to inspire young ethnic people to believe in themselves and chase their dreams fearlessly. Her story is one of passion, resilience, and breaking barriers, making her a powerful role model for the next generation.
Volunteer of the Year
Nazrul Islam
Nazrul Islam is a dedicated volunteer who uses sport as a platform for inclusion and wellbeing. Through the Bengal Dragons Foundation and grassroots initiatives, he has created safe spaces that unite people of all ages and backgrounds. Naz has led projects such as Ramadan football sessions and youth programmes that celebrate culture and break down barriers to participation. Beyond organising activities, he mentors young people, helping them build confidence and leadership skills. His collaborative approach has forged strong partnerships with schools, local authorities, and community organisations, making Naz a driving force for positive change in Welsh sport.
Tamjid Miah
Tamjid Miah is a founding member of the Bengal Dragons Foundation and a passionate advocate for community sport. From coaching football teams to supporting innovative projects like Midnight Ramadan Golf, Tamjid combines his love of sport with a commitment to inclusion. He plays an active role in the foundation’s operations and focuses on developing young athletes through weekly training sessions. His dedication ensures that sport remains a tool for empowerment and opportunity, inspiring the next generation to thrive both on and off the pitch.
Awara Rasul
For over 20 years, Awara Rasul has been a lifeline for sanctuary seekers and refugees in Cardiff. He runs a welcoming internet café, coaches a diverse football club, and volunteers at a Kurdish school, helping young people stay connected to their culture while building new lives. Awara also provides translation, housing support, and advocacy for those navigating complex systems – always with compassion and care. His extraordinary service was recognised nationally with two Nation of Sanctuary Awards in 2025. Awara’s work embodies solidarity and inclusion, making him an outstanding community leader and a true champion of diversity.
Coach of the Year
Max Rahman
Max Rahman is an FAW C Licensed coach and the founder of SA1 Dragons FC. At just 20 years old, Max launched the club in 2020 to create inclusive opportunities for young people in Swansea. Known as a “one-man band,” he manages almost every aspect of the club – from administration to coaching, while volunteering his time entirely. Under his leadership, SA1 Dragons’ U15 team finished third in the Swansea Junior League and reached two tournament finals, winning silverware at one. Recognised nationally for promoting equality and diversity, Max received an award at the Senedd in 2023. His philosophy is simple: give children the opportunities he lacked growing up, using football as a force for positive change.
Mojeid Ilyas
Mojeid Ilyas grew up playing tape-ball cricket in Grangetown and now works with Cricket Wales to deliver street cricket projects in Cardiff and Newport. His mission is to create opportunities for young people, especially in communities with limited access to sport. Mojeid’s journey from local streets to community sport leadership reflects his passion for inclusion and his commitment to inspiring others. Outside of work, he enjoys padel and tennis, valuing the balance and enjoyment they bring. Through his efforts, Mojeid is helping more young people discover the joy of cricket and physical activity.
Thasan Yoganathan
Thasan Yoganathan is a second Dan Judo black belt and British Judo coach dedicated to competitive excellence and inclusion. Coaching at Samurai Olympic Judo Club and assisting at the Welsh National Centre, Thasan has developed athletes who have won domestic and international medals, including the current British Champion. A former Welsh National Champion himself, he focuses on removing barriers and supporting diverse cultural needs within the sport. Beyond judo, Thasan was awarded the British Empire Medal for excellence in dementia care and brings a wealth of experience from his career as a Chartered Tax Advisor. His leadership and commitment make him a driving force in Welsh judo.
Gamechanger in Sport Award
Izzy Islam
Izzy Islam leads Seeds of Hope, a Bengal Dragons Foundation initiative championing neurodiversity and inclusion through sport. As a parent to neurodivergent children, Izzy saw the barriers they faced and created a project to change that. This summer, Seeds of Hope delivered eight inclusive events, from horse riding to sensory-friendly trips, culminating in its first Neurodiversity Sports Day. Over 50 families attended, with children enjoying adapted activities like boxing, archery, and races designed to meet their sensory needs.
Roopa Vyas
Roopa Vyas is a leading voice for equality in sport. As Chief Operating Officer of Her Game Too, she tackles sexism in football while driving inclusion through her role at Transport for Wales. Proud of her South Asian heritage, Roopa champions visibility for women in football, hosting panels at the FAW National Youth Conference and collaborating with Liverpool FC on community engagement. Her work has earned national recognition, but Roopa measures success by impact – whether inspiring a young girl to feel she belongs or ensuring clubs take real steps toward inclusivity.
Leif Thobroe
Leif Thobroe is reshaping disability sport in Wales. A former para-athlete, Leif now works as Regional Partnership Senior Officer, collaborating with local authorities, health boards, and sporting bodies to create inclusive opportunities for all abilities. He has led disability-specific events for ethnically diverse communities and champions equality as a Non-Executive Director for EDI. Leif’s lived experience drives his commitment to breaking barriers and embedding inclusion at every level. His work proves the transformative power of sport, inspiring participation and giving underrepresented voices a platform to thrive.
Sportswoman of the Year
Anna Hursey
Anna Hursey is rewriting Welsh sporting history. Starting table tennis at age five, she became the youngest athlete to represent Wales at senior level in 2017 and the youngest competitor in Commonwealth Games history in 2018. Her achievements include a bronze medal in women’s doubles at the 2022 Commonwealth Games – the first for Welsh women in table tennis and a strong showing in singles and team events. In 2024, Anna qualified for the Summer Olympics, and in 2025, she claimed the European Under-21 Championship title. Currently ranked 53rd in the world, Anna continues to inspire as one of Wales’s most exceptional talents.
Soffia Kelly
Soffia Kelly is a professional footballer for Aston Villa and the Welsh national team. Having represented Wales at multiple youth levels, she was part of the squad during the UEFA Women’s Euros, gaining invaluable experience on the international stage. Off the pitch, Soffia is an ambassador for The Gloves Are On and Kidscape, using her platform to inspire young people and promote resilience. Her journey reflects determination and passion, proving that with hard work, dreams can become reality.
Mimi Xu
Mimi Xu’s tennis journey began in Swansea and has taken her to the world stage. In 2024, she won her first professional singles title and four doubles titles, alongside standout junior runs at Wimbledon and the US Open. In 2025, Mimi made history as the first Welsh woman in 20 years to play in Wimbledon’s main singles draw, facing Emma Raducanu on Court One. Passionate about giving back, Mimi supports projects like “She Can” to inspire young people. Her story reflects talent, perseverance, and the power of sport to unite communities.
Sportsman of the Year
Charlie Sikwa
Charlie Sikwa is a professional Muay Thai fighter with over 15 years of experience, proudly representing Wales and the UK on the global stage. Born in Zambia and raised in Wales, Charlie has earned multiple titles, including Welsh, British, European, and two World Championships. He competed at the 2012 World Championships in Russia and continues to inspire through his dedication to the sport. Beyond competing, Charlie is a committed coach and mentor, helping fighters develop skills and confidence. His journey reflects resilience, excellence, and a passion for using sport to empower others.
Mark Brown
Mark Brown’s life has been defined by sport – from becoming a Welsh gymnastics champion at nine and an international gymnast at 12 to coaching and breaking barriers in fitness. During the pandemic, Mark ran online wellbeing sessions for Muslim women and free classes for asylum seekers and refugees, even providing training clothing to support integration. Today, he runs his own inclusive gym in Barry, offering “No Borders to Fitness” classes for all ages, including his oldest member at 80. Recently, Mark represented Wales as part of Team GB at the European Functional Fitness Championships and will compete at the World Championships in Australia.
Tahmid Miah
Tahmid Miah is a rising star in UK amateur golf and a proud representative of the British Bangladeshi community. As a member of the UK Bangladesh (Sylhet) district team, he played a key role in securing a national competition victory. Golf remains underrepresented in his community, making Tahmid’s achievements a powerful example of diversity in sport. Passionate about inspiring others, he advocates wider participation and uses his success to encourage young people to explore new opportunities both on and off the course.
Lifetime Achievement Award
Mike Tan
Mike Tan has dedicated over 50 years to promoting karate as a tool for discipline, resilience, and community development. Originally from Malaysia, Mike arrived in Wales in 1974 and introduced the philosophy of Karate Budokan International. As Chief Instructor for Karate Budokan International (Europe), he has trained generations of martial artists, established multiple dojos, and mentored countless black belts. His inclusive approach has embedded karate into Welsh communities, fostering intercultural respect and lifelong learning. Beyond the dojo, Mike founded CCW Training Academy and Language Academy Wales, empowering marginalised communities through education and employability programmes. His legacy is one of equity, empowerment, and unwavering commitment to sport and society.
Gerald Cordle
Gerald Cordle’s journey from Cardiff’s docks to international rugby is a story of resilience and trailblazing achievement. After excelling for Cardiff RFC and breaking try-scoring records, Gerald switched codes and became one of the few Welsh players to represent Great Britain in rugby league. As one of the first Black Welsh rugby players at an elite level, he broke barriers and inspired future generations. Since retiring, Gerald has championed equality and inclusion, ensuring young people have access to opportunities in sport. His legacy is not only his sporting honours but the doors he opened for others.
Keri Chahal
Keri Chahal has spent a lifetime breaking barriers in sport. From captaining Llanelli FC and Swansea CC to becoming Swansea Cricket Club’s most successful captain with three consecutive league titles, Keri’s playing career set the stage for his passion for coaching. Joining Cricket Wales in 2012, he progressed to National Cricket Programmes Lead, driving inclusion and community engagement across Wales. Working closely with partners like EYST, Keri ensures cricket is accessible to all communities. His mantra – “If you’re good enough, keep knocking down barriers”, reflects his commitment to equality and opportunity.
