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July Regional Round-Up 2025

July Regional Round-Up 2025

SUPPORTER ANNOUNCEMENTS

Join us for It’s Your Carmarthenshire!

Have you booked your free ticket for It’s Your Carmarthenshire yet? On July 16th, people from across Carmarthenshire – including local businesses, professionals, community groups, and residents are invited to come together for a day of connection, conversation, and collaboration. Hear from Dawn and some of 4theRegion’s Carmarthenshire members on what they enjoyed about the last event and what they’re looking forward to this time!

Grant funding available in Neath Port Talbot and pan Wales for businesses in the Tata supply chain

Business in Focus want to spread the word about the support available to local businesses. There are significant funding opportunities for companies based in Neath Port Talbot or connected to the Tata supply chain, and they’re keen to make sure the right people hear about them.

“Food is something we all have in common…”

Meet Polina Henderson, a passionate community gardener who joined us at It’s Your Pembrokeshire to share how growing food locally creates connections, bridges differences, and transforms communities. 77% of people agree: more food should be grown by communities, for communities. And it’s about more than just the food – it’s about mental wellbeing, shared purpose, greener places, and true togetherness.

Short Courses

Technocamps are excited to share their new courses happening at Volcano Theatre this August! Their free short courses are aimed at enhancing your tech skills and are perfect for learning new topics and gaining valuable skills that can boost your career and unlock new opportunities. Suitable for ages 16+. Find out more

What is 4theRegion?

We often get asked what 4theRegion actually is. Are we a business network? A consultancy? A campaign group?  The truth is, we don’t fit neatly into any of those boxes. Here you can read about why we exist, who we are, how we work, and who is involved. If any of that has resonated with you – if you’ve found yourself nodding along, or feeling that familiar fire in your belly – then we want to invite you to get involved.

JOBS & OPPORTUNITIES

Careers at NPTC Group of Colleges

Would you like a rewarding career and to feel part of a family? Well, you can have all that and more at NPTC Group of Colleges. Here’s a list of their current vacancies. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to change your future – Apply Now!

Shift into High Gear!

Accelerate your career at Day’s Motor Group. Check out their open positions and apply today! Whether you are looking to start your career or have a wealth of experience and knowledge in your chosen profession, Day’s Motor Group have a range of full time and part time job opportunities in the car industry to suit most people. Find your new role today

Unleash your potential

Transform your ambitions into success with uncapped commission. If you’ve dreamed of building your own business but were unsure about getting started, this is your chance to take charge of your career with support every step of the way. As a Membership Advisor for the Federation of Small Businesses, you are empowered to build a strong and sustainable business model, servicing the SME community, backed by a trusted, national business support organisation. Apply now

Realise your job potential

Looking for temporary work but not sure who to trust and sign up to? Give Acorn by Synergie a go

Vacancies at Bevan Buckland

Bevan Buckland are passionate about recruiting the best and providing a fantastic working environment. They are always looking for talented and ambitious people to join their ever-expanding firm. View their current job vacancies

Be part of a successful organisation

Pembrokeshire College is a well established further education college, employing over 500+ highly qualified and dedicated staff. They pride themselves on delivering first class education and training to over 13,000 learners at a vibrant campus in a beautiful county. Their diverse job opportunities offer flexibility in developing a career in areas ranging from teaching, coaching and management through to human resources, finance and IT. Read more

Interim Administrator

Acuity Law  are a leading UK law firm renowned for their commitment to excellence, client service, and delivering innovative legal solutions. Their firm is recognised for its collaborative and dynamic working environment, offering high-quality legal advice to a diverse range of clients. As an Interim Administrator, you will work as part of their firmwide administration team to provide efficient, high quality administrative support service to the fee-earning community of Acuity Law. Read more

Join Business in Focus

If you’re thinking about joining Business in Focus and want to make a difference to the people in Wales, you’ve come to the right place. Here they share with you how important the culture is to the organisation, along with the benefits and current roles they are looking to fill.

Careers at the Development Bank of Wales

At the heart of our member the Development Bank of Wales’ success is their people. Like the businesses they work with, they see their employees as long term investments. They always look to empower their staff to be decision makers and consistently encourage personal and professional development. They’re a flexible and equal opportunities employer with offices across Wales. Find out more

Accelerate your career at the DVLA

At the DVLA we are dedicated to keeping the UK roads safe. With a team of over 6,000 talented professionals, we offer diverse career paths across various fields which include Human Resources, Estate management, Digital and Technology Services, Finance, Operations, Communications, Customer service, Commercial, and Policy. We are an award-winning agency and take pride in our work and people. We believe our employees are our greatest asset, which is why we strive to create a supportive and inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. We recognise and reward excellent performance, celebrating the outstanding work the agency contributes to the country. Our Comprehensive employee benefits package is designed to support your wellbeing and career, empowering you to be the best version of yourself. Jumpstart your career today and explore your opportunities on gov.uk, Civil Service Careers and the DfT website. Search for current vacancies at the DVLA here.

Job Opportunities and Working at Swansea University

Looking for a new job? Changing role? Interested in what Swansea University can offer you? A warm and welcoming University, they value people for their skills regardless of their background and are proudly named as a top employer in the annual Stonewall Equality Index. They know that people have commitments outside their job, so they provide a working environment that allows employees to achieve the right work/life balance. Read more

Current Vacancies at Gower College Swansea

Your future starts here. Do you want to make a difference? Gower College Swansea’s mission is to inspire and support their learners to achieve their full potential through the delivery of the highest quality of education and training. By joining them at the College, you’ll become part of a team of highly committed and talented staff providing outstanding learning and training opportunities for young people, adults, and employers across South West Wales. Read more

TENDERS & CONTRACTS

,Dynamic Purchasing System for the Provision of Domiciliary Care and Support Services

Pembrokeshire County Council invite you to submit a bid to join a Dynamic Purchasing System (DPS) for the provision of domiciliary care and support services. The Hywel Dda University Health Board may call off goods and services in quantities and at such frequency as it determines appropriate and as such, the approximate Hywel Dda University Health Board contract value has been included within this notice. Read more

Tendering Opportunities for Swansea University

Swansea University wishes to appoint suitably qualified and experienced contractors to provide refurbishment of the Swansea University Egypt Centre (museum of Egyptian antiquities), and fisheries monitoring equipment including acoustic tags and receivers for the fish tracking programme.

Skatepark Refurbishment

The refurbishment of Mynydd Newydd, Townhill, and Victoria Park Skateparks is part of the third round in a series of skatepark and pumptrack projects to be delivered across the City and County of Swansea. The skateparks within these contracts will be complemented by existing facilities and new projects to create a network of skate and wheeled sports facilities of different size, scale and challenge level.

Tendering Opportunities for Carmarthenshire Council

Carmarthenshire Council seeks to appoint consultants to provide town centre placemaking plans, drainage investigations and CCTV surveys, arboricultural works on trees affected by ash dieback and other health related issues, and an exhibition about Pendine at the Museum of Land Speed.

The Servicing of Domestic Boilers and Heating Appliances in Pembrokeshire

Pembrokeshire County Council wishes to commission a single contractor to deliver safety checks, servicing and repair of oil and gas fired boilers, domestic air source heat pump systems and appliances along with the service, repair and replacement of smoke and heat detectors and carbon monoxide detectors, to its domestic and sheltered housing properties, throughout the County of Pembrokeshire. Read more

Tendering Opportunities for Swansea Council

Swansea Council wishes to appoint contractors to provide the refurbishment of airey properties in Felindre, the execution of Morfa Quay and New Cut Road pontoons, the execution of window renewal and roofing works at Sketty Park, flooring at Brondeg House, and an arts and culture project manager.

PC2425/003. Supply and Delivery of Agri Wheel Loader

Pembrokeshire College is seeking quotations from suppliers for the provision of compact loaders or equivalent vehicles, including the JCB 403 Agri Plus, JCB 403E, and JCB TM110, or similar models from other manufacturers. Equivalent models must match or exceed the lifting capacity, turning radius, and maximum cab height of the specified JCB models, and must feature a pivoted axle. Read more

Tendering Opportunities for Pobl Group

Pobl Group intends to establish contracts with suitably qualified and experienced suppliers for the provision of lift replacements for residential buildings and student accommodation, retrofit and associated works at Sunnyhill, Llanelli, fire rectification works at Cwm Aur, Llanybydder, green careers evaluation, and employee health checks.

Dynamic Purchasing System for the Provision of Supported Living Services

Pembrokeshire County Council, and on behalf of the Hywel Dda University Health Board, are issuing a tender for a Dynamic Purchasing System for supported living services comprising of both community and household care and support. The approximate Hywel Dda University Health Board contract value and approximate Housing Related Support Grant contract value has been included within this notice. Read more

DEVELOPMENT

New 67-home development to be built at The Croft, Llangwm

A spokesperson from local housing association Ateb Group said “There is a clear and growing need for quality, affordable housing across Pembrokeshire. The Croft is helping to meet that need by offering a mix of homes, including 22 shared ownership properties that give local people a real opportunity to take their first steps onto the property ladder. We’re proud to be delivering this development in partnership with Mill Bay Homes and Morganstone.” Read more

Long-awaited transformation of city square set to get underway

A sculpture in Swansea’s Castle Square has been removed ahead of a long-awaited scheme to transform the area into a greener and more welcoming space. High voltage cables have been re-laid and the main work will follow, resulting in two pavilion buildings for food, drink or retail businesses (one with a green roof), new lawns and other greenery, seating areas, an interactive water feature and a large TV screen above a bandstand-style structure. Read more

Major Swansea office scheme set for step forward – aimed at accommodating up to 800 workers

Major plans for a new office development that aims to help further boost Swansea city centre footfall are set to take another step forward. The office scheme, planned for land in the area of the former St David’s Shopping Centre site, is aimed at accommodating up to 800 workers. The five-storey building will be a mix of office accommodation on the upper floors with commercial accommodation including food and beverage on the ground floor. Read more

Image shows exciting future for skateboarding at Swansea’s Victoria Park

An image shows how a street plaza-style facility for skateboarding and other wheel sports will look at Swansea’s Victoria Park. The design follows consultation with skateboarders, fans of other wheel sports and local residents where hundreds of views were taken on board. The improvement, working closely with experts at Curve Studio, is part of a £2.8m council investment in wheel sports facilities across the city.

SWANSEA BAY CITY DEAL

Bouygues UK’s Pentre Awel project wins Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) award at Constructing Excellence in Wales awards

Bouygues UK, the contractor for Llanelli’s Canolfan Pentre Awel, proudly picked up the ESG award at the Constructing Excellence in Wales Awards. Bouygues UK’s Pentre Awel site team were applauded by the judges for their dedication in having a positive impact in Carmarthenshire, creating career opportunities, raising education and skills levels, supporting local businesses, and actively engaging with the community. Read more

Further tenant announced as 71/72 Kingsway in Swansea officially opens

Financial company Futures First have been confirmed for the 71/72 Kingsway scheme that will accommodate up to 600 jobs. This follows on from the announcement of flexible workspace provider IWG and travel and leisure company TUI as building tenants earlier this year. Developed by Swansea Council, the 104,000 square foot scheme is being part-funded by the Swansea Bay City Deal. Futures First will take up over 4,300 square feet at the development. Read more

BUSINESS NEWS

Congratulations to The Cusp and Bowla

Two fantastic Swansea-based start-up businesses who have been named among the best in Wales, at the regional finals of the UK start-up awards. Both Jess and Louise of The Cusp, and Hannah of Bowla have spoken about their businesses at the 4theRegion Start Up Expo, and have benefited from funding opportunities provided by Swansea Council to take their businesses to the next level. We love to see start-up businesses thriving in South West Wales. Read more

Unlikely city street fast becoming a foodie paradise as new deli opens its doors

A few years ago Walter Road was no more than a slab on unremarkable concrete linking Swansea city centre with Uplands and Sketty. Now a new deli is aiming to bring “flavour without fuss” with a range of locally sourced and interesting international ingredients. Flynn’s Delicatessen joins a growing band of independent bakers, coffee specialists and food businesses of which chef turned tech entrepreneur Chris Flynn says he is proud to be a part and wants to help grow. Read more

Swansea nightlife retains Purple Flag accreditation for 11th year

The sought-after Purple Flag accreditation is a recognition of a commitment to creating a dynamic, secure and vibrant evening and night-time economy – all while ensuring the safety and well-being of residents and visitors. Andrew Douglas, manager of Swansea BID, said: “At Swansea BID, we work tirelessly in collaboration with the council, police, venues and others to ensure visitors can enjoy Swansea’s brilliant food and drink venues safely.” Read more

Hugely popular burger van owner opening new restaurant

Phil Fraser’s Food Anarchy has won legions of fans who have followed his van around its regular locations at Dunvant, Gorseinon, Marina Market, and Mumbles Market, with popular menu items including gourmet burgers, loaded hash browns, and loaded fries. His fiancée Katie Powlson is also a favourite at food markets, serving up an array of cakes and sweet treats. Now the pair have decided to team up and launch their first business Fully Loaded. Read more

“We wanted to create something truly Italian – not just the food, but the feeling of the place” – authentic Italian restaurant opens in Swansea

Luigi’s Restaurant, the latest addition to Swansea’s vibrant food scene, has launched at 14-16 Orchard Street. “This has been a dream for us,” said co-founder Luigi Presutti. “We wanted to create something truly Italian – not just the food, but the feeling of the place. The team at Peter Lynn and Partners were fantastic. They understood our vision and helped make the legal side feel easy, even though we were on a tight deadline.” Read more

Crwst to open new café at Quay Street, Haverfordwest

An award-winning bakery is opening another branch in Pembrokeshire. Crwst was named as one of the best places to enjoy breakfast in the UK by The Guardian and The Observer. It was also one of five Welsh bakeries named among the best in the world by La Liste in 2024. The café on Quay Street will be located at the front of the Black Bear Pembrokeshire letting agency and will sell takeaway coffee, bakes, doughnuts, bread and toasties. Read more

Cariad Sourdough opens new bakery at Milford Haven Marina

A new waterfront business is rising to success, filling a ‘much-kneaded’ gap in the market. It’s a dream come true for local woman Leah Ferris who has worked in the food industry all her life, including for Gordon Ramsey. The bakery sells a range of sourdough loaves, delicious sourdough focaccia and sourdough pizzas and sweet treats like brownies and cookies. It also showcases goods by other local producers Leah has met while working at food fairs and markets. Read more

HEALTH & LIFE SCIENCE

Major international clinical trial finds significant impact of semaglutide on people with type 2 diabetes

An international clinical trial, led in the UK by Swansea University’s Joint Clinical Research Facility (JCRF), has found that semaglutide tablets – best known as the active ingredient in some weight-loss treatments – can ‘significantly’ help reduce the risk of heart attacks in adults who have type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular and/or chronic kidney disease. Read more

Tackling society’s most urgent challenges: Research explores how communities can work together to bring about positive change

Academics will investigate how citizens, civil society organisations and policymakers are collaborating to tackle some of society’s most pressing problems. Including researchers from Swansea University, the three-year research programme, People, Places, and the Public Sphere, will examine ways in which people’s participation in democratic activities, collaborative governance and citizen science can address urgent collective challenges. Read more

New harness helps boy with Down’s syndrome to skateboard

A 12-year-old boy has trialled a world-first skatepark aid that will allow him to participate in the sport without the help of his parents. Ollie, who has Down’s syndrome, used a harness system, created by the Cerebra Innovation Centre, at Exist Skatepark in Swansea because he wanted to skateboard with his friends. Kate Leonard, who owns the skatepark, said she hoped the technology will make the sport more inclusive. Read more

CIRCULAR ECONOMY & ENVIRONMENT

Council Leader welcomes move forward for Celtic Sea offshore wind farms

Neath Port Talbot Council Leader, Cllr Steve Hunt, has welcomed a major step forward in the development of huge floating offshore wind farms in the Celtic Sea which could create thousands of new jobs. Britain’s Crown Estate has announced Equinor and the Gwynt Glas joint venture between EDF Renewables UK and ESB will be its preferred partners for the two new wind farms which will be among the largest floating wind developments in the world. Read more

New Toolkit Empowers Communities in Pembrokeshire to Adapt to Climate Change

Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum are proud to launch a new Climate Adaptation Toolkit designed to help communities across Pembrokeshire respond to the growing impacts of climate change. The Toolkit brings together practical resources to help communities better understand the specific risks they face – from coastal flooding to increased risk of wildfire – and to work with key stakeholders to co-create their own local adaptation plans. Explore the Toolkit

Swansea University leads consortium awarded £3m for national project using nature to help cities tackle climate change

Called ‘Retrofitting for the Future: Nature-Based Solutions for Climate Adaptation’, the project will look at how cities and their citizens can become healthier, greener, and more resilient by building stronger connections with nature. This includes rethinking how we design and reuse buildings and public spaces – bringing in natural elements like plants, water, and daylight to improve wellbeing and support the environment. Read more

UK’s cleanest recorded air quality found at Welsh holiday resort

Air quality monitoring at Bluestone National Park Resort in Pembrokeshire has revealed that the air at the historic Black Pool Mill on its estate is cleaner than any monitored by the UK government. Read more

Bright future for felled forest as Wildlife Trust creates new nature reserve on Gower

An area of land that was at the centre of a illegal tree-felling case is set to become a new haven for wildlife, following a major conservation partnership between two Welsh organisations. The 43-acre site, known as Cartersford, lies at the heart of the Gower National landscape. Once home to a mixed woodland, the site was illegally cleared in 2019, leading to the loss of important habitat and wildlife. However, a brighter future is now on the horizon. Read more

VISITOR ECONOMY & TOURISM

BOOT UP! This is Gower calling!

Tickets are now available for the 2025 Gower Walking Festival. An annual celebration of Gower, the Festival is designed to encourage people to appreciate the area’s unique landscape and rich heritage while enjoying the many benefits of walking. This year, the Festival will run from Saturday 6th September to Sunday 14th September 2025 and tickets are available now from the website.

Welsh-Made Documentary ‘The Red List’ Shines a Spotlight on the Hidden Heroes of Plant Conservation

The Red List is a new documentary made by Independent filmmaker Ross Pierson. The film lifts the veil on the urgent and often-overlooked work of the National Botanic Garden of Wales as it battles to protect the nation’s most threatened plant species. The film will be exclusively screened at 4pm and 6pm on Friday 25th July at Theatre Botanica, the National Botanic Garden of Wales. Tickets and further details are available exclusively here.

Free bus scheme returns to Swansea for the summer

Buses will be free in Swansea at weekends this summer. Swansea Council’s popular free bus initiative, which gives residents the chance to ride on all service buses operating within the city limits at no cost, will once again operate each weekend during the summer holidays. The scheme will operate between July 19 and August 31, on Saturdays and Sundays, and everyone can benefit as long as their journey starts and ends within Swansea. Read more

Village’s last surviving pub is named the best in Wales

The Britannia Inn in Llanmadoc is a well-preserved 17th century inn, and the only only survivor of four taverns that existed in the village in the early 1800s. The beams in the lounge of the Britannia Inn are reputed to be from shipwrecks which were ‘lanterned’ ashore by wreckers for their valuable cargo. It serves up food and drink from local suppliers, including Gower Salt Marsh lamb, asparagus, Selwyn’s seaweed, Swansea smoked salmon, and Gower Gold ale. Read more

Welsh National Theatre to set up home in Swansea

Swansea is the new home of Welsh National Theatre. Founded by Michael Sheen earlier this year, the company’s first headquarters will be in the city’s civic centre, overlooking the beach of Swansea Bay and out from Wales to the world. The news strengthens Swansea’s connections to the company: Welsh National Theatre’s first production, Our Town, debuts at Swansea Grand Theatre 16-31 January 2026. Read more

Work starts on £250m holiday resort with water and mountain activities

Once completed, the resort in the Afan Valley will feature 570 lodges along with 130 apartments and rooms. Guests will be offered a huge range of outdoor and indoor activities including wild swimming, mountain biking, canyoning, hiking, and bouldering. Wildfox Resorts describes the scheme as a “transformational” opportunity for the local economy. Read more

EDUCATION

Jason swapped steelworks for study – now he’s encouraging others to follow in his footsteps

When uncertainty began to mount over the future of Port Talbot’s Tata Steelworks, Jason Bailey saw it as just the push he needed to make a major career change. The former operator opted to take redundancy and put the skills he had picked up during his time at the works to a different use – studying for a BSc in Healthcare Science (Medical Engineering) at Swansea University. Read more

Gower College Swansea hosts inspiring girls-only event for International Women in Engineering Day

This taster event welcomed around 60 pupils from Dylan Thomas and Bishopston Comprehensive schools for a full day of hands-on exploration across various engineering disciplines. Designed to showcase the exciting and ever-evolving world of engineering and technology, the event offered students the chance to experience interactive sessions in areas such as motor vehicle technology, electronic engineering, general engineering and engineering mathematics. Find out more

Swansea University secures global top 40 position in THE Impact Rankings

Swansea University has been ranked 36th in the world for its contribution to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), according to the latest Times Higher Education (THE) Impact Rankings, published on 18 June 2025. Now in its seventh year, the THE Impact Rankings assess how universities worldwide are addressing the UN’s 17 SDGs—measuring performance across four key areas: research, stewardship, outreach, and teaching. Read more

The Secret Hospitality Group and Gower College Swansea launch collaborative academy to nurture hospitality talent and careers

Gower College Swansea and The Secret Hospitality Group are proud to announce the launch of a brand-new partnership: The Secret Hospitality Group x Gower College Swansea Academy, a dynamic initiative designed to inspire, develop and nurture emerging talent within the hospitality industry. This partnership aims to raise the profile of hospitality as a rewarding career choice while creating direct pathways for learners. Read more

High-flying aerospace students claim prize in aircraft design challenge

Aerospace students put their skills to the test in a competition aimed at highlighting their technological talents – and once again Swansea University lifted the top prize. The IT FLIES UK 2025 Aircraft Design and Handling competition gave students a unique opportunity to display their creativity and technical expertise while testing their aircraft designs on state-of-the-art flight simulators. Read more

Ian Price OBE appointed Chair of Governors at Gower College Swansea

Ian Price, recently awarded with an OBE in the King’s Birthday Honours for his outstanding services to business and charity, has been appointed Chair of Governors at Gower College Swansea. Bringing decades of leadership experience and a passion for education and community service, Ian is set to guide the College into an exciting new chapter. Ian succeeds Meirion Howells, who steps down after four years.  Read more

Swansea University achieves highest-ever global ranking

Swansea University has climbed six places to reach its highest-ever position in the prestigious QS World University Rankings 2026, securing 292nd place and cementing its status among the world’s top 300 universities. This marks consistent growth over the past five years, with Swansea advancing 182 places since 2021, when it was ranked 474th. Read more

New collaboration to pioneer solar technology for space

Swansea and Loughborough Universities have joined forces on a pioneering mission to transform solar power in space by developing lightweight cadmium telluride (CdTe) solar cells on ultra-thin glass – a game-changing technology set to revolutionise energy systems for satellites and space-based manufacturing.  Read more

Sketty Hall Business School welcomes new advisory board members

Sketty Hall Business School, part of Gower College Swansea, is proud to announce the addition of six dynamic new members to its Advisory Board; Luciana Ciubotariu, Chief Executive of The Celtic Freeport, Russell Greenslade, CBI Director of Wales, Andrew Walker, Development Director at Resource Limited, Elliott James, Head of Talent Development at Pobl Group, Rachael Flanagan, founder/CEO of Mrs Buckét, and Natasha Fulford, Managing Director at reTHINK. Read more

Who Is Involved

Who Is Involved

One of the most powerful things about 4theRegion is the people and organisations who make it what it is. We’re not a single organisation delivering a top-down programme. We’re a network – a regional alliance – made up of individuals, businesses, and groups who care about South West Wales and want to be part of creating a better future.

So, who is involved?

A Rich Mix of Sectors and Stories

Our members and supporters come from all walks of life. From creative agencies and universities, to small farms, manufacturers, housing associations and community groups – all united by a shared belief in collaboration, place-based action, and long-term thinking.

Here are just some of the people and organisations involved:

Bevan Buckland LLP – the region’s largest independent accountancy firm

Branding by Becca – local branding and design specialist, helping businesses tell their stories with clarity and style.

University of Wales Trinity Saint David – with campuses across Carmarthenshire and Swansea

Swansea University – a key regional anchor and strategic partner

Bluestone National Park Resort – leading in sustainability and local supply chains

Swansea Community Farm – a well-loved urban farm doing vital community work

Zombie Plastics CIC – transforming plastic waste into new products and solutions, putting circular economy into action.

Cwm Arian Renewable Energy – community-led renewable energy and projects in West Wales

The CAE – formerly known as the Centre for African Entrepreneurship, helping people pursue their Welsh Dream

Carl Gough – a storyteller and change agent now working to conserve sea grass

Gower College Swansea – supporting young people and regional skills development

JCP Solicitors – legal experts with offices across our region

Vicky Moller (Grwp Resilience) – long-standing advocate for local empowerment

Ben Reynolds (Urban Foundry) – urban regeneration, creative economy and meaningful placemaking.

Castell Howell Foods – a regional food distribution business committed to local farming

Waters Creative – a design and marketing agency, building a regional creative network

Circular Economy Innovation Communities – focused on systems innovation and circularity

Arvato CRM Solutions – providing customer services and jobs in the region

Gitti Coats (Haverhub) – championing place-based regeneration in Haverfordwest

James Dovey (Blueprint) – an innovative place-base changemaker working with young people in Llanelli

Phil McDonnell – Founder of Swansea Environment Forum and now driving the local food agenda in Neath Port Talbot

Mary Duckett (Bwyd Abertawe) – food systems change in Swansea

Swansea Building Society – embedded in our region and committed to supporting local businesses

This is just a snapshot – our network includes over 200 organisations and individuals, and it’s growing all the time.

A Shared Commitment to the Region

What connects all these diverse people and organisations is not a sector or size – but a shared commitment to South West Wales. A belief that we’re stronger when we work together. A willingness to collaborate, to share ideas, to show up and support one another.

Some are working in business. Others in education, health, farming, energy, the arts, or the public sector. Some lead big organisations; others are just getting started. Many are quietly doing good work behind the scenes.

Together, they form the beating heart of 4theRegion.

If you’re working on something that aims to contribute to the wellbeing and prosperity of this region – whether it’s a business, a social enterprise, a campaign, or a community group – there’s a place for you here too.

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How We Work

How We Work

A Culture of Connection

At 4theRegion, we’re often asked what it is we actually do. And to be honest, it’s not always easy to explain.

We’ve never wanted to build a traditional organisation. We’re trying to model a different way of working – one that values people, relationships, and shared purpose above all else.

We’re not here to run services or deliver projects for the sake of it. What we do is bring people together, hold space for conversation, and support collaboration – because we believe that’s where real, long-term change begins.

Positivity is a Strategy

One of our guiding principles is that positivity matters. In a world full of bad news and competing demands, it’s easy to feel disheartened. But when people hear what’s already happening – the good work, the local projects, the individuals making a difference – it shifts something.

It creates energy. It encourages hope. And it helps people see that change is not only possible, but already underway.

A big part of what we do is amplify that – sharing stories, celebrating local initiatives, helping people feel connected to something bigger. That positive sense of identity – of belonging to a place that’s full of potential – is not superficial. It’s empowering. It helps people act.

Helping the System See Itself

We’re inspired by systems thinkers like Donella Meadows, who wrote that “a sustainable system must be able to see itself.”

In fragmented systems, people don’t know what others are doing. They can’t see the patterns or possibilities. Everyone’s working hard, but often in isolation.

We try to shine a light on the system – not by analysing it from above, but by building shared awareness from within. Through conversations, events, newsletters and meetups, we help people see that they’re not alone – that their work is connected to a much wider movement for change.

That’s what we mean by “joining the dots”.

The Five Ways of Working

We align closely with the five ways of working in the Wellbeing of Future Generations Act:

  • Long-term – Thinking beyond the next funding cycle or political term

  • Prevention – Tackling root causes, not just symptoms

  • Integration – Seeing how things connect, not working in silos

  • Collaboration – Building trust, relationships, and shared ownership

  • Involvement – Including people’s voices, especially those often left out

These aren’t just policy terms – they’re ways of being. And we try to live them, every day, in how we work with people across South West Wales.

Co-Creation, Not Consultation

In 2025, we’re focusing more intentionally on five mission-led steering groups – each one bringing people together around a key regional theme:

  • Local Supply Chains
  • Community Changemakers
  • Youth Empowerment
  • Positive Regional Identity
  • The Green Economy

These groups are not advisory boards or working groups in the traditional sense. They’re spaces for co-creation – where people can bring their own projects, shape shared ideas, and collaborate to make things happen.

We’re not waiting for funding to drop from above. We’re identifying what’s needed now, and then working together to find the energy, resources, or support to move forward.

How We Work

  • We hold space for conversation and connection

  • We listen deeply and without agenda

  • We grow awareness of what’s already happening

  • We help people see opportunities for collaboration

  • We value trust, consistency, and relationships

  • We support co-creation, not competition

This isn’t always easy – and it’s certainly not fast. But it’s how we believe change happens: when people see the system more clearly, feel proud of what’s possible, and choose to work together, rather than alone.

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Who We Are

Who We Are

4theRegion is a small organisation – just the two of us full time, plus a few amazing team members and freelancers who support different parts of the work.

We’re not a big institution. We don’t have a huge board or lots of funding. We’re a partnership, a friendship, and a shared commitment to doing things differently.

People sometimes assume we’re much bigger than we are – and maybe that’s because the vision is big. But behind everything we do is a small team of people working hard, with care and purpose, to help make this region better connected, more hopeful, and more joined-up.

We’re not perfect. We don’t have all the skills or answers. But we’re good at listening, at drawing people together, at spotting opportunities for collaboration. And we care – deeply – about this place.

We care about fairness, kindness, integrity. We care about the people we work with. We try to be generous and supportive. And we try to do things with heart, not ego.

That doesn’t mean it’s easy. Like many people trying to create change, we often feel tired, overwhelmed, or unsure. This work can feel lonely sometimes. But what keeps us going is the community around us – the friends, allies, and changemakers who remind us why it matters.

Zoe Antrobus

Co-Founder & Managing Director

Zoe leads on member engagement, business development and events – and she’s the person who keeps everything moving forward. With a background in enterprise support and events, she has a real talent for bringing people together and creating momentum.

Zoe is full of perseverance and positivity. She’s not afraid to pick up the phone, reach out, and keep inviting people into the conversation. She’s constantly working to involve new voices and explain why collaboration matters – always looking for connections and shared purpose.

Zoe is strong and capable – whether that means fixing a broken gate, putting up a shelf, or holding a whole conference together. She’s also mum to one daughter and brings a practical, upbeat energy to everything she does – helping people feel welcome, encouraged and ready to get involved.

Dawn Lyle

Co-Founder & Strategic Lead

Dawn leads on strategy, vision and communications – holding the big picture and working to shift the narrative around what economic success looks like in South West Wales. With a background in business and regional development, she brings insight and clarity to complex systems and long-term challenges.

She came to Swansea as a student and never left, starting her first business here in 2003. Like many who move to the region, she sees its strengths and opportunities with fresh eyes – and has spent the last two decades supporting local businesses, promoting place-based enterprise, and advocating for positive change.

Dawn is a passionate voice for wellbeing economics, community collaboration and systems thinking. She’s also mum to three children, and brings care, conviction and a deep sense of purpose to everything she does – always asking what’s needed next, and how we can do things differently.

Just people who live here

At its core, 4theRegion is a human organisation. You won’t get slick corporate comms from us. You’ll get real people, trying to do something meaningful, and inviting others to be part of it.

This is the work of relationships, and we’re hoping to be here for the long haul.

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Why We Exist

Why We Exist

We started 4theRegion because something was missing.  So many brilliant people, doing good work – but disconnected from each other. So many conversations happening in silos. So many decisions being made without the people they affect. And so much energy, wasted or ignored, when it could be shaping something better.

It felt like no one was joining the dots. No one was bringing people together across sectors, across counties, across roles – to work towards a shared vision for our region.  That’s what we wanted to do.

We Believe in South West Wales

We believe this region is full of potential. Not just economic potential – though there’s plenty of that – but human potential. Community potential. Creative, caring, committed people who want to build a better future where they live.

But the systems we live and work within often make that harder than it needs to be. Funding is short-term and competitive. Organisations are under pressure. Collaboration takes time. And everyone’s overstretched.

We don’t have all the answers – but we do think we need to work differently. More openly. More locally. More collaboratively. That’s what 4theRegion exists to support.

We’re Tired of Quick Fixes

So much of our economy is about short-term wins. Growth for its own sake. Big promises that don’t materialise. Communities left out or left behind.

We think it’s time to reimagine what the economy is for.  For us, the answer is wellbeing. The wellbeing of people, places, and the planet. That means supporting the things that really matter – care, connection, meaningful work, strong communities, nature, fairness. Things that don’t always get measured, but absolutely matter.

That’s what we mean by a wellbeing economy. Not a utopia – but a shift in priorities. A long-term direction of travel. And it starts here, in our region, with the work we’re already doing together.

It’s Hard, But It Matters

We won’t pretend this is easy. Collaboration is hard. Systems change is hard. Trying to do things differently is hard.

But it’s also worth it. And it’s already happening – in small ways, all over the region. People coming together, sharing ideas, supporting each other, and building something new.

That’s why we’re here. To hold space for that. To keep showing up. To say: you’re not on your own.

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