My latest review centres on the book Cymru & I and how it deals with personal tales of Welsh immigration.
A Steady Influx
In recent years, there has been a steady influx into cities of Wales such as Cardiff, Swansea, Wrexham and other areas of people from a wide range of counties and backgrounds. The movement of individuals and families sometimes results from exclusion and marginalisation from their homeland or as an effort to seek sanctuary, employment or improve their life opportunities.
In the thought-provoking Cymru & I, nine writers give personal reflections in a range of stories which reflect their experiences of integration, inclusion, acceptance and efforts to engage with their concept of “Welshness” and settling within a “new homeland*
Some of the stories may kindle a desire to enhance involvement with the culture, language, sporting life and community activities, which give “Welshness” such a unique feel. They give readers insight into their personal journeys, enabling them to understand the challenges, desires, and issues of settling into a new community.
All the stories convey experiences, survival and, above all, personal determination and resilience. For example, Debowale Omole describes Cymru as a place of new beginnings, which is “home to me now and more to my children”. He hopes his children can embrace the best of the two worlds of Nigeria and Wales and can communicate in Welsh, Yoruba and English so that they understand their “unique heritage”, Welsh by place of birth and Nigerian by heritage.
Extensive Roots
The section by Mo Jannah on the legacy of multiculturism in global Wales examines the rich cultural heritage of the legacy of “extensive roots”. In an absorbing analysis, Mo focuses on the period 1840-1920 and the impact of the influx of Irish, Jewish, Italian and African immigrants into the industrial areas of Wales.
The text highlights the successful integration, over time, of future generations to represent Wales in football, rugby and other sports, while the incoming communities of Italians, Irish, Muslims, Sikhs and Jews embraced the Welsh language, culture and roles as entrepreneurs and community leaders.
At the National Eisteddfod (Eisteddfod Genedlaethol) held in 2024 in Pontypridd in Cwm Rhondda (The Rhodda Valley), people attending from other areas were “enthused, energised and elated” by the high level of voluntary involvement and contribution of adults and young people from immigrant community backgrounds. Undoubtedly, their contribution was a key factor in the outstanding success of the Eisteddfod in enhancing the unique culture and language of Wales.
National Eisteddfod
This element of community awareness is emphatically evident within Wrecsam, as demonstrated by the outstanding efforts of Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, and the staff team at the Stok Cae Ras in promoting the Welsh language within a bilingual context. This proactive policy indirectly encourages many adults, young people, and children to gain confidence in Dysgu Cymraeg (Learn Welsh) and Siarad Cymraeg (Speak Welsh).
It is certainly significant to note how many incomers and non-Welsh language speakers are currently taking an active role in fundraising and support activities to welcome the National Eisteddfod to Wrexham in August 2025.
This excellent range of stories of experiences and historical analysis will enable all readers who have moved to Wales from other parts of Britain or immigrated from countries further afield, such as Portugal, Poland, Samoa, Iran, Africa, Rumania or Ukraine, to reflect upon what Wales means to them and their role in the future of “cosmopolitan communities”.
An enthralling and inspirational read. Diolch yn fawr (Many thanks).
We hope you enjoyed reading Personal Tales of Welsh Immigration. Click here for more of our book reviews.
Author: John Morris for Love Wrexham Magazine
John is an FA coach. He has worked with young players at Fulham, Chelsea, QPR and Wrexham, promoting resilience, tenacity and self-discipline. He is currently a consultant addressing growth mindsets to promote sports, education, and business performance.
