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South West Wales News, Events & Opportunities

Each month, we pull together the region’s top headlines, and announcements from across our alliance, to create your Regional Round-up from 4theRegion.

From development and investment news to community projects, and business opportunities: we’ll make sure you’re in the know, so you can speak positively and confidently about what’s happening here in South West Wales.

Do you have an opportunity you’d like to share in our next round-up? Be sure to let us know!

February Regional Round-Up 2024

Jobs

Environment

Tenders

Education

Development

Tourism

City Deal

Life Science

Business

Events

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT

YEAR OF OPPORTUNITIES
At our first Meetup of 2024, we heard about development opportunities, careers and training opportunities, opportunities for young people, and opportunities for communities.  People spoke of their excitement about what’s happening in our region, and shared their #opportunities with our engaged cross-sector network.  ICYMI: you can catch up on the January meetup here, and register for the February meetup here!

MEMBER ANNOUNCEMENTS

National Apprenticeship Week Wales 2024

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) is celebrating National Apprenticeship Week 2024. This week is a celebration that brings together businesses and apprentices to shine a light on the positive impact that apprenticeships make to individuals, businesses, and the wider economy. Read More

Cartref Creative – A New Network for Creatives

Cartref Creative held its first event on Wednesday the 24th of January at the HQ Urban Kitchen in Swansea. Cartref Creative is a new network for creatives that was born out of conversations at the 4theRegion conference in 2023. The network is a home for creatives that aims to create spaces – both digital and physical – where creatives across the region can meet, socialise, learn and collaborate. Read More

JOBS & OPPORTUNITIES

Attraction Manager

This is an outstanding career opportunity with a market leader committed to providing a diverse and meaningful range of leisure and culture related activities for the local communities in which Plantasia Tropical Zoo serves. The role of Attraction Manager is an important position to be able to continue the success that Plantasia has achieved in recent years. Read More

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 ourselves 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

Job opportunities with abg Windows & Doors Specialists

Since 1991, our members abg Windows & Doors have been serving the construction, architectural and local building industries with the highest level of environmentally conscious doors, windows and facades. Send your CV to nigel@ab.glass  to learn more about their current opportunities.

Jobs and Working at UWTSD

People are at the heart of everything UWTSD does. They are proud of their dedicated and talented employees and they work together as a team to make a difference to the lives of their students and the communities they serve. ‘Transforming education, transforming lives’ is their mission. If you would like to join them on this journey and make a difference too, then they would love to hear from you. Read More

Become a Volunteer

Interested in joining Age Cymru West Glamorgan’s friendly and passionate team of volunteers but not sure which role would suit you best, or would like to find out more? Complete the form in the link and tell them a little bit about yourself. A member of their team will get back in touch with you. Find out more about their current roles here.

Work With RCS Wales – Staff Vacancies

RCS Wales’ employees are their most valued asset. They invest in staff health and wellbeing, as recognised by their Gold Small Workplace Health Award. Their flexible working practices allow staff to maintain a healthy work-life balance. They’re recruiting for a number of exciting new roles to support delivery of their In-Work Support Service in North Wales, Dyfed and Swansea Bay. Read More

Careers at NPTC Group of Colleges

Attention job seekers! Are you ready for a new challenge? Are you looking to take the first step of your career? Or are you a talented professional looking to take your career to the next level? Look no further! Take the leap and join NPTC Group of Colleges’ team of high achievers. Apply now and let your career soar!

Careers at Castell Howell Foods Ltd

Established in 1988, Castell Howell Foods now have over 650 employees and are one of the biggest employers in Carmarthenshire. From their HQ in Cross Hands and satellite depots in Porthmadog, St Martin’s, Hirwaun and Avonmouth, they deliver to both public and private sectors throughout Wales, the Border Counties and South West England. Read More

Join #TeamCoastal

Coastal Housing are a very different type of company and one that people love being part of. Coastal are a team in the truest sense of the word. They value relationships highly, so they invest in them daily. As a result, their workplace culture is open, trusting and respectful. It’s also safe, which they think is pretty critical to encouraging new ideas and approaches. If this sounds like something you’d like to be part of, come join #TeamCoastal. Read More

For business. For Wales.

The Development Bank of Wales offers sustainable and effective business finance for companies based in Wales, or relocating to Wales, bringing ambitions to life and fuelling possibilities for people, businesses and communities in Wales. Apply Now

RDM Electrical and Mechanical Services is seeking a Mechanical Estimator 

RDM have an opening for a mechanical estimator to join their growing organisation on a permanent contract basis, located at their Swansea office. If you are a highly motivated individual with a passion and desire to contribute to the positive reputation of their business, they would love to hear from you. Read More

Industrial Year Science Student Placement

The science centre overlooks the Botanic Garden and contains a fully equipped molecular lab, library and herbarium. During the placement, based in the National Botanic Garden of Wales’ Science Department, you will work to contribute to their research aims. Your main responsibilities will include undertaking a research project, seed collecting and processing, and public engagement. Read More

Seasonal Greenkeeper

Join the great team of committed and skilled greenskeeepers at Fairwood Park Golf Club, situated on the glorious Gower Peninsula. This is a full-time role on a seasonal basis with employment from April 1st to September 2024. You’ll be an enthusiastic team worker who enjoys physical outdoor work in a varied role. Interested applicants should send a covering email and CV to: Rhodri Evans, Managing Director, Fairwood Park Golf Club rhodri@fairwoodpark.wales

Head of Business Development

The Business Growth and Consultancy directorate aims to ensure the future sustainability of Cwmpas through securing continuation and new income, testing new services and products, and delivering a range of high-quality products and consultancy services. As Head of Business Development, you will lead the development and implementation of the Cwmpas Funding Strategy, to secure sufficient income to underpin delivery of the Cwmpas organisational strategy. Read More

Join The Team at Swansea Building Society

Swansea Building Society recognises that its staff are vital to its success. They’re always looking for talented professionals with the determination to help them succeed. From time to time, vacancies may arise in one of their branch offices (Swansea, Mumbles, Carmarthen and Cowbridge) or in one of their Head Office departments (Mortgage Underwriting, HR, Risk & Compliance, IT and Finance). 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

Trustee Opportunities

Forest School Swansea Neath Port Talbot was set up in 2001 to provide Forest School opportunities for children and young people across Swansea and Neath Port Talbot. They are seeking several new Trustees who are passionate, motivated, with values that align with their own, and the time and commitment to help the charity grow. You will be joining a friendly, dynamic Board of Trustees helping to bring the natural world closer to children and young people.  Read More

Job Opportunities at Gavin Griffiths Group

Gavin Griffiths Group were saddened to hear of the announcement by Tata Steel that almost 3,000 jobs will go this year at its Port Talbot steelworks. If you are one of those people then please get in touch. They would like to try and help if we can, particularly at this uncertain time. If you would like more information or would like to arrange to visit the site for an informal interview, please contact rhys@griffiths-group.co.uk or call 01792 795829. Read More

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

Working for DVLA

The DVLA employ around 6,000 full-time and part-time staff. Keeping their employees happy and healthy is a priority of theirs and there are many benefits and rewards on offer. They have a variety of roles in many different business areas including operational and customer services, digital and technology, human resources, finance, communications, commercial, policy, and the drivers medical group. Read More

Make 2024 the year you put your organisation on a sustainable footing

Do you want to help your organisation create a sustainable future? Improve service levels? Release productivity and financial efficiencies? Meet Net Zero targets? Gain a commercial advantage? Or simply make your corner of Wales a better place to live, work and play? If you answered yes to any of these questions, CEIC’s fully-funded training programme is exactly what you’ve been waiting for. Read More

Trainee Solicitor Opportunities – All Offices

Trainee solicitor applications are now open and JCP Solicitors are recruiting for 2024, 2025 and 2026. They are accepting both LPC and SQE students for this intake but you must have completed or be due to complete your LPC or SQE 1 & 2 before your potential training contract start date. All applicants are asked to save the date for shortlisted candidates to attend a brief interview on Wednesday 3 July 2024 and also their Assessment Day, taking place Wednesday 10 July 2024. Read More

Train of Thought

South West Wales Connected have teamed up with Sevenside Community Rail Partnership to create an anthology of poems on themes of railway journeys, trains, travel, people and places between Pembrokeshire and Taunton. The deadline for submission for submission is 5pm on Sunday 17 March via email to TrainsOfThought@southwestwales.co. To get involved, or ask questions please contact Eve on 07970 348680 or email eve@southwestwales.co.

What is Crowdfund Swansea?

Spacehive a (community fundraising platform) together with Crowdfund Swansea is a platform where ideas can be shared, communities empowered, and funds raised to take projects forward for the benefit of local communities. Crowdfunding can be a great way to fundraise with your networks, friends and family and makes it easier to reach people outside your network. Read More

TENDERS & CONTRACTS

Contract Notices for Swansea University

Swansea University has a requirement for graduate gowns and photography, LED lighting, and multimodal and multisensory research systems.

Research into and Options Appraisal on Second Homes and Short-term Holiday Lets in Carmarthenshire

Carmarthenshire County Council are inviting tenders for a consultant to undertake research into second homes and short-term holiday lets in Carmarthenshire and to prepare an options appraisal on future policy approaches. Read More

Contract Notices for the University of Wales Trinity Saint David

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) is seeking to appoint a suitably qualified and experienced marketing company/consultant to deliver a defined brand development and marketing service for the PACE Cymru regional projects, and an e-sports partnership opportunity in relation to “Gaming Heroes” project.

CWM Environmental Limited – Proposed Materials Recovery Facility

This contract is for the design and construction of a new MRF building, external storage bays and associated works. Read More

Training for SAFFA warranted officers FWA 2024 – 2028

Natural Resources Wales needs a framework in place so that they can arrange the annual refresher sessions for SAFFA (Salmon & Freshwater Fisheries) warranted officers. The framework will also need to have a provision for the full training course, which is necessary for any new recruits to Natural Resources Wales. Officers require a full Salmon & Freshwater Fisheries Act 1975 warrant to undertake High Impact Fisheries Enforcement work. Read More

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

Regeneration of Green Spaces, Penderry, Swansea SPF23-037

Pobl Group wishes to appoint a contractor to undertake the design and work for the regeneration of green spaces at Penderry, Swansea. This project is partly funded by Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) SPF23-037 in conjunction with Swansea Council and external partners. The project will commence in March and must be completed by December 31st 2024. The Group would also like to invite potential suppliers to a supplier day and walk / view of the sites. Read More

Provision of a feasibility study for a Neath Museum

Neath Port Talbot County Borough Council has recently secured funding via the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (SPF) to engage an experienced museum and heritage consultant to undertake a feasibility study of a new museum provision for Neath. Read More

Contract Notices for Swansea Council

Swansea Council is seeking suitably qualified and experienced contractors to provide unpaid carers hub services, water main repairs, voice entry systems, a communication support service for people who are deaf or have dual sensory loss, street trading pitches, a Singleton Park feasibility study, a multi-disciplinary team for Scheduled Monument sites, and water injection dredging at Swansea Marina.

DEVELOPMENT

Dozens of dockside flats and townhouses to be built at Swansea’s SA1

A dockside development of 108 flats and townhouses which might one day have a canal running through it has been given the go-ahead. A Pobl Group spokesman said: “Including 69 homes for social rent, alongside 39 townhouses for outright sale and shared ownership, the new development underscores Pobl Group’s commitment to providing much-needed affordable homes and essential social rented accommodation in Swansea city centre.” Read More

Carmarthenshire residential scheme drawn up

Plans have been drawn up by Derwen Road Ltd in association with Coastal Housing for a residential development in a Carmarthenshire village. A statement by Asbri Planning on behalf of the applicants said: “The proposal will provide 20 homes in a sustainable location, fulfilling a housing allocation and making use of brownfield land. It will lead to the creation of a high-quality and attractive place to live, and will contribute to creating a distinct sense of place.” Read More

Pontardawe arts centre major upgrade plans revealed including new cinema for the town

Having hosted regular cinema showings, Pontardawe Arts Centre has identified that there is a significant opportunity to now expand its film offer to include ‘first release’ blockbusters as well as art house movies within a new dedicated cinema space. Works to Pontardawe Art Centre are to build a new cinema extension, as well as works to reconfigure the ground floor bar and café spaces to improve the operation of the centre. Read More

Iconic Swansea building to reopen as food hall, bar and music venue

A former music hall and cinema is due to reopen in May following an £8m-plus transformation. The Albert Hall will include a food hall with 8 independent stalls, a bar, performance area and stage, private dining rooms, karaoke, and a children’s play centre. There’ll be 18 first floor offices, with 13 units above geared towards health and lifestyle services. Above that will be 10 serviced accommodation units, a rooftop garden, a work space area and a gym. Read More

Three historic Swansea buildings to be turned into public venues

Oystermouth Castle will benefit where the redesign and relocation of existing facilities resulting in the accommodation of more visitors and the creation of more exhibition space. The Unitarian Church in High Street will receive funding to develop a sustainable use of the building reflecting the needs of the community. Also in line for a cash injection is The York Place Baptist Church in the city centre where restoration and reconfiguration works will take place. Read More

SWANSEA BAY CITY DEAL

Plans to boost mobile coverage in Carmarthenshire’s worst served areas

The Shared Rural Network is set to improve 4G coverage so that customers from all mobile networks benefit. This will allow a larger proportion of local communities to connect to superfast broadband. Carmarthenshire has significantly larger rural areas than other counties in the Swansea Bay City Deal region, and the topology of the land means that adding new infrastructure can add numerous complexities to what are already difficult projects. Read More

New technology to make city centre better connected

The technology will be put in place on lampposts and other street furniture in Swansea to benefit businesses, shoppers and visitors. It’s aimed at helping improve mobile coverage and data speeds in the city centre. It could also support smart bins to reduce litter and sensors to monitor air pollution. This supports the Swansea Bay City Deal Digital Infrastructure Programme’s ambition to attract a regional economic boost of £318 million in the coming years. Read More

Laydown Space Development

Works are underway to create an additional laydown space by early 2024, as part of the Swansea Bay City Deal-backed Pembroke Dock Marine project. The additional space is being generated through clearance and levelling works and the demolition of a building. The new flat and open laydown area will allow the floating offshore wind industry and its supply chain to store and manoeuvre large devices, vessels and infrastructure. Read More

BUSINESS NEWS

Huge Welsh indoor market named best in the UK

Swansea Market was given the accolade by the National Association of British Market Authorities. It’s the third time the market has won the award having won title in 2015 and 2020. The market was praised for championing local entrepreneurs, its commitment to development, and its marketing activity. The unique indoor market is steeped in history and some interesting characters,  including an international DJ now turned fishmonger, spend their days there. Read More

The acclaimed chef set to bring mouth-watering breakfasts, delicious small plates and wines to city street

A highly acclaimed award winning chef is opening a new restaurant in one of Swansea’s trendiest foodie suburbs. While the menu at Bartram’s on Eversley Road has yet to be confirmed, for breakfast and brunch you’ll find dishes including a traditional breakfast, shakshouka eggs, smashed avocado on sourdough, Italian eggs with tomato salsa and parma ham, and “Bartram’s Banging Bagels” with toppings such as shredded duck, sausage, bacon, egg or chorizo. Read More

Ammanford man opens Level256 80s themed bar in Swansea

20 year old Sam Evans was inspired to create the bar, taking over the former rugby shop on Caer Street, opposite Castle Square, by his own love of the 80s and gaming. “I’ve always loved 80s music, and thought there needed to be the place for 80s music in Swansea.” He said “So I opened one up!” There is a diverse cocktail menu with each cocktail named after an 80s theme such as Beetle’s Juice (a sour melon flavour) and Gintendo (a gin and Archers Schnapps mix). Read More

HEALTH & LIFE SCIENCE

The game-changing tactile maps made for people with visual impairments

A recent pilot project in collaboration with the Assistive Technologies Innovation Centre, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, has looked at new ways of engaging people with visual impairments by exploring the use of 3D printing and tactile maps to support independent travel and navigation in Wales. The use of tactile maps could enable vital input from people with visual impairments when it comes to designing active travel routes. Read More

“We recreated the deepest sections of your lung in a laboratory to understand how polluted air can affect your health”

Researchers at Swansea University Medical School are trying to replicate the layer of cells known as the alveolar epithelium, which lines the deepest part of your lungs where oxygen enters your bloodstream and carbon dioxide leaves as you breathe in and out. They can grow single layers of cells that look very much like the alveolar epithelium of healthy humans, and then expose them to various pollutants to investigate what effect they may have. Read More

CIRCULAR ECONOMY & ENVIRONMENT

UWTSD earns coveted ‘1st Class’ sustainability ranking in prestigious People & Planet University League

The University of Wales Trinity Saint David has been recognised with a ‘1st Class’ award in the 2023 People & Planet University League, underscoring its unwavering commitment to environmental stewardship, ethical practices, and sustainability initiatives, which you can read more about here. The People & Planet University League is renowned as an authoritative environmental ranking of all UK universities.

Hydrogen vehicle trials have begun

The trial will showcase First Hydrogen’s FCEV advantage over battery electric vehicles in range (630 km/400 mile), payload towing and fast refuelling capabilities. The vehicle is the first-of-its kind to be deployed in Wales. The trials are supported by green hydrogen producer, Protium Green Solutions and hydrogen services company, Hyppo Hydrogen Solutions, which will help develop a hydrogen ecosystem to support Wales & West Utilities’ operations. Read More

Swansea’s first ever ‘one planet development’ has been given the green light

The couple who will live there described the land as a grower’s dream. Trevor and Bettina Davies began work on their market garden venture – The Rowan Tree – on a field west of Ilston, Gower, in 2020, while living off-site. The land is owned by the Ecological Land Cooperative, which applied to Swansea Council for planning consent under the Welsh Government’s one planet development policy. This policy encourages low-impact living, both in terms of the homes people can build and the land-based activities they scale up to meet most of their needs. Read More

Former primary school renovated into Net Zero centre

The Cwmgors Primary School building, which closed in 2015, will soon re-open its doors as a Net Zero Community Hub. Awel Aman Tawe has been developing its plans for the facility, now known as Hwb y Gors, since acquiring it in 2018. It will offer a community and enterprise space, co-working studios, educational facilities and a community café. Also operating from the facility is a community electric transport scheme. Read More

UWTSD launch Green Health Hub in Cynefin

UWTSD has been working in partnership with Coed Lleol – Small Woods Wales over a number of years supporting the development of the Cynefin site to become a Green Health Hub, for the benefit of people across Carmarthenshire. The aim is to promote community mental health and wellbeing through access to local green spaces. It will work with several partners to run activities promoting wellbeing, social bonding, and knowledge of the natural world. Read More

Syndicated ESG facility awarded to Bluestone Resorts in Wales

It’s Barclays’ second sustainability-linked financing to Bluestone and the largest ever strategic funding deal for the Development Bank of Wales. It will enable Bluestone Resorts, which operates Bluestone National Park Resort in Pembrokeshire, to continue with a major sustainable investment programme, including the development of the resort and a 5-hectare solar farm which is expected to provide up to 30% of Bluestone’s annual electricity usage. Read More

Llanelli primary school launches community food share scheme

Pupils, teachers and staff at a Llanelli school have opened a brand new food share programme known as Bocs Bwyd (Food Box). The school garden at Ysgol Gymraeg Dewi Sant is supporting pupils in their understanding and knowledge of healthy and nutritional food. The scheme will include produce from their garden which will be available to the local community. Castell Howell will be generously supporting them by donating food on a weekly basis. Read More

VISITOR ECONOMY & TOURISM

Plans for huge hotel and leisure complex announced for run-down country estate with 10-bed manor house

Plans for a 295-bed hotel and leisure complex have been submitted to Neath Port Talbot Council on the site of a Grade II listed country house and estate. The Rheola Estate in the Neath Valley was built in the early 19th century and includes a former manor house, stables and gardens on 41 hectares of land. The country manor was almost certainly designed by John Nash, who was appointed by King George IV to extend and transform Buckingham Palace. Read More

Watch: The Mona Lisa has appeared in a Welsh town

It’s the most famous painting on the planet. Now, a version of Leonardo da Vinci’s Renaissance masterpiece, currently housed in the Louvre in Paris, has appeared in the street art capital of Wales, Port Talbot. The artwork has a sign that reads ‘The Louvre – Port Talbot Version’. One of Wales’ leading street artists Steve ‘Jenks’ Jenkins created the mural – and he admits it was the most difficult painting he’s attempted. Read More

Swansea’s Waterfront Winterland Big Wheel is moving to an exciting new location within weeks

Everyone loves the view from Swansea Waterfront Winterland’s beloved Big Wheel attraction. But what if we ‘see’ those views and raise you to the vista from Mumbles Pier? Interested? If you are, then your wish is about to come true as the Big Wheel is set to have a new home at Mumbles Pier. Studt’s Fun Fair. Read More

Bannau Brycheiniog listed one of the best places in the world to visit in 2024

Bannau Brycheiniog, which stretches from Carmarthenshire to the English border, has been named as one of the top places in the world to visit. The New York Times publishes an annual list of the 52 best places to visit in the world. Coming in at number 18 on the list, the national park was praised the national park’s decision to scrap its English name – Brecon Beacons – and officially call it by its Welsh name only – Bannau Brycheiniog. Read More

Tenby Steampunk Festival features a Peacock Parade and teapot racing

One of the very few Steampunk festivals in Wales is on its way to Pembrokeshire. Steampunk is a style that focuses on industrialism from the Victorian era – mostly steam-powered inventions – and sci-fi. The three-day event will run from Friday March 22 to Sunday March 24. If you’d like to find out more – and start to create a costume fit to grace the Peacock Parade – there will be a workshop at Augustus Place Community Hall on Saturday February 24. Read More

BBC National Orchestra of Wales to perform St David’s Day celebration in Swansea

Brangwyn Hall will host the BBC NOW St David’s Day Stravaganza on Thursday, February 29. The night promises to be a big one for Swansea and Brangwyn Hall, the concert will be headlined by virtuoso saxophonist Jess Gillam who will perform the UK premiere of Karl Jenkins’s saxophone concerto, Stravaganza.  Conducted by Nil Venditti , BBC NOW will be joined on stage by the BBC National Chorus of Wales and the National Youth Choir of Wales. Read More

Enjoy pirates, dragons and dark sky spectacles this half term

Pembrokeshire Coast National Park Authority’s three visitor attractions will all be hosting a variety of half term fun this February, offering family-friendly experiences and a flavour of the area’s culture and heritage. Read More

Swansea Street Food Festival is coming back and it’s going to be bigger than ever

One of Swansea’s most popular foodie events, the Swansea Street Food Festival, is set to return this spring – and it will be bigger than ever, organisers say. The family-friendly festival will be returning to Museum Park on Easter weekend, Friday, March 29, to Monday, April 1, and will have 30+ street food traders offering tantalising dishes from around the world, including India, Vietnam, Thailand, Morocco, Mexico, Afghanistan, the Caribbean, and Uzbekistan. Read More

EDUCATION

StreetSnap: First-Of-Its-Kind App Launches to Build Community Resilience to Hate

Leading social scientist from Swansea University, Dr Lella Nouri and her team, have developed a new app which revolutionises the way communities can track and report hate graffiti, all with the aim of understanding tensions within a community, and building intervention programmes to eradicate the issues. StreetSnap will be available for use in local authorities across Wales and England. Read More

Earth’s earliest creatures dated from Welsh rocks

Welsh rocks have revealed details about some of Earth’s earliest creatures. Fossils first discovered in Carmarthenshire in the 1970s revealed traces of organisms that have now been dated to 564 million years ago. The ancient disc-shaped invertebrates probably lived in shallow waters along the coast of volcanic islands. Researchers say the organisms – too primitive to be described as animals – are “completely unlike any other forms of life”. Read More

From the Street to the Boardroom: New Course to Teach Business Skills to Disadvantaged

Swansea University is set to run a unique new course aimed at getting the best out of disadvantaged people and inspire them to take a different path in life. The university has teamed up with Bristol-based initiative Street2Boardroom for the five-week course called Enterprise and Creativity: Entrepreneurship in Practice which launches this autumn.  It aims to not only provide the learners with new skills and knowledge but also to give them first-hand experience of university life. Read More

UWTSD Set Design & Production students awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service

Students from the BA Set Design & Production course at the University of Wales Trinity Saint David have been awarded the King’s Award for Voluntary Service in recognition of their project work and volunteering with Carmarthen and District Youth Opera. They have been collaborating with the Youth Opera by designing iconic pieces of scenery such as the dragon, called Elizabeth, for ‘Shrek’ last year, and the car for this year’s production of ‘Our House.’ Read More

UPCOMING EVENTS

Mixing Magic
Every Day Until 11 February 10:00 – 16:00
Oriel Science, Swansea
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Finding Your Innate Resilience – women only
Every Monday 11:00 – 12:30
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Free Yoga & Relaxation for women
Every Monday 14:00 – 15:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Self Help Book Club!
Every Monday 16:00 – 17:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Kung Fu Wales (Little Dragons)
Every Monday, Tuesday & Wednesday 17:00 – 18:00
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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VIP Class Acts
Every Monday 17:00 – 19:00
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Sing Together Community Singing Group
Every Monday 17:45 – 18:45
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Kung Fu Wales
Every Monday 18:30 – 20:15
Every Tuesday & Wednesday 18:30 – 19:30
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Community Yoga Class
Every Tuesday 12:00 – 12:50
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Women’s Outdoor Walking Group
Every Tuesday 13:15
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Taijiwuxigong for health
Every Tuesday 14:00 – 15:30
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Zumba
Every Tuesday 18:30
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Embrace 2024
7 February 09:30 – 14:00
The Orangery, Margam Country Park, Port Talbot
Book Here

Your path to career success: Apprenticeships demystified
7 February 10:00 – 10:30
Online
Hosted by Gower College Swansea
Book Here

Marina Litter Pick
7 February 10:00 – 12:00
The Environment Centre, Swansea
More Details

Energy Awareness Hub – Switched On
Every Wednesday, Thursday & Friday 10:00 – 16:00
The Environment Centre
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Fuelling the future: Gas Engineering apprenticeships Q&A
7 February 10:30 – 11:30
Online
Hosted by Gower College Swansea
Book Here

Swansea Crafties
Every Wednesday 13:00 – 15:00
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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Tycoch – Apprenticeship Open Evening
7 February 15:30 – 19:30
Gower College Swansea Tycoch Campus
Book Here

Employer Expo
7 February 16:30 – 18:30
UWTSD IQ Campus, Swansea
Email apprenticeships@uwtsd.ac.uk or e.hunt@uwtsd.ac.uk to attend

Access Pilates
Every Wednesday 18:00
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Life Drawing at elysium
7, 14 & 21 February 18:30 – 21:00
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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FILM NIGHT: Symbiotic Earth (tickets on the door, by donation)
7 February 18:30 – 21:30
The Environment Centre, Swansea
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Designing the future: Exploring User Centred Design apprenticeships
8 February 11:00 – 11:30
Online
Hosted by Gower College Swansea
Book Here

Walking for Wellbeing
Every Thursday 12:00
Sea wall opposite The Secret Beach Bar & Kitchen, Swansea
Hosted by The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
More Details

Connecting lives, building futures: Gower College Swansea’s Community Development apprenticeship
8 February 13:00 – 13:30
Online
Hosted by Gower College Swansea
Book Here

Wales Virtual Networking
8 February 13:00 – 14:00
Online
Hosted by FSB Wales
Book Here

Warm Hub Space
8 February 14:00
Swansea Multicultural Hub
Hosted by Race Council Cymru
Email moomal@racecouncilcymru.org.uk to reserve your space

Balancing the books: A guide to business introduction and basic bookkeeping
8 February 14:00 – 14:30
Online
Hosted by Gower College Swansea
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Navigating the Digital Landscape: Unveiling two pathways to boost business through advanced digital skills
8 February 14:00 – 14:30
Online
Hosted by Gower College Swansea
Book Here

Community Art Sessions
Every Thursday 14:00 – 15:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Future-proof your school: Funded Teaching Assistant apprenticeships
8 February 16:00 – 16:30
Online
Hosted by Gower College Swansea
Book Here

Pregnancy Relaxation Sessions
Every Thursday 17:45 – 18:45
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Rediscover Your Innate Resilience
Every Thursday 19:00 – 20:30
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Live Comedy: The Ministry Of Absurdism – Crime Night
8 February 19:00 – 23:00
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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Burlesque Chair Dancing Lessons
Every Thursday 19:30
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Coffee Shop Sessions
9 February
Swansea Arena
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Access Pilates
Every Friday 09:30
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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The Queens Hall Food & Craft Fair
Every Friday 10:00 – 15:00
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Men’s Shed
Every Friday 11:45 – 13:15
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Men’s Tai Chi Class
Every Friday 13:45 – 14:45
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Unlocking your potential: A guide through our Information, Advice and Guidance development pathways
9 February 14:00 – 14:30
Online
Hosted by Gower College Swansea
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Embrace You! Women’s Wellbeing Group
Every Friday 15:00 – 16:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Contemporary Dance Class
Every Friday 18:00 – 19:30
LC2 Swansea
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Well-Being, Psychic and Craft Fayre
10 February
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Yoga for children with additional needs
10 February 10:00 – 10:45
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Drop In Darning Winter Woolies Workshop
10 February 10:00 – 14:00
The Environment Centre, Swansea
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Family Yoga
10 February 11:00 – 12:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Art for all workshops!
Every Saturday 11:00 – 13:00
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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Home Ed
10 February 12:15 – 13:15
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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SPOKEN WORD & MUSIC EXTRAVAGANZA
10 February 18:00 – 21:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Live Music: Dark & Twisties + Hawk Howard + Honey Rich + Laila Woodward
10 February 19:00 – 23:30
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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Crystals for opening the Heart and Self-Love
11 February
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Year of the Dragon Celebration!
11 February 11:00 – 16:00
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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Crystals For Self- Love And Harmonious Relationships
11 February 17:00 – 19:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Weekly Group Meditation
Every Sunday 19:15 – 20:15
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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The Rock Orchestra By Candlelight
11 February 19:30
Swansea Arena
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Half Term Fun at the Botanic Garden
12 – 16 February 11:00 – 15:00
National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne
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The Arts Society West Wales: Bach and Handel – Separated at Birth
13 February 11:00
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Make & Take – Chinese Dragon Stick Puppets
13 – 15 February 12:30 – 15:30
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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Swansea In Gloom Walking Tours
13 February 19:30 – 22:00
HQ Urban Kitchen, Swansea
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Welsh Dark Sky Week: Faulkes Telescope
14 February 10:00 – 10:30
Oriel Science, Swansea
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Our House
14 – 17 February 19:30
17 February 14:30
The Lyric Theatre, Carmarthen
Book Here

Half Term Movie – Wish Dragon (PG 2021)
15 February 11:00
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Creative Region!
15 February 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here

The Silly Cabaret ‘Its giving valentines’
15 February 18:00 – 23:00
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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This Flight Tonight – The Songs of Joni Mitchell
16 February 19:00
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Ginger plays The Wildhearts
16 February 19:00 – 23:00
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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Mischievous Cow
17 February
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Repair Cafe at The Environment Centre
17 February 10:30 – 13:30
The Environment Centre, Swansea
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Drag Queen Story Hour UK
17 February 11:00 & 13:00
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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Yin Yoga, Yoga Nidra & Sound Bath
17 February 14:00 – 16:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Vanilla, Lacross Club, Yaki Dah, Ethan Jones and The Cosmic Chaos and HKH
17 February 20:00 – 23:55
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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Indie Bangers – Club Night
17 February 21:00
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Move Naturally with the Feldenkrais Method
18 February 10:30 – 12:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Feldenkrais ‘Awareness Through Movement’ classes
18 February 10:45 – 11:45
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Quiet Hour at the Museum
18 February 15:00 – 16:00
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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Castell Howell Food Service Show
20 – 21 February
Parc y Scarlets, Llanelli
Book Here

Changes to Felling Licences
20 February 10:00
Online
Hosted by Natural Resources Wales
To book your place email deddfcoedwigaeth@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk

Caffi Cymraeg
20 February 10:30
The Environment Centre, Swansea
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Marina Litter Pick
21 February 10:00 – 12:00
The Environment Centre, Swansea
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Breathe, Release, Grow
21 February 11:15 – 13:15
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Crowdfund Swansea – Launch
21 February 12:00 -13:00
Online
Hosted by Spacehive
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MA/Prof Doc Children, Young People & Community Services Online Info Event
21 February 18:00 – 19:00
UWTSD Carmarthen Campus
Book Here

Wales Virtual Networking
22 February 13:00 – 14:00
Online
Hosted by FSB Wales
Book Here

Changes to Felling Licences
22 February 14:00
Online
Hosted by Natural Resources Wales
To book your place email deddfcoedwigaeth@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk

Coffee Shop Sessions
23 February
Swansea Arena
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Pembrokeshire Drop In Business Support
23 February 09:00 – 12:00
Bridge Innovation Centre, Pembroke Dock
Hosted by FSB Wales
Book Here

Heritage Landscape Tour
23 February 11:00 – 13:00
National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne
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Mercer + SPWCI + Crime Scene
23 February 19:00
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
Book Here

Narberth Seed Swap
24 February 10:00 – 13:00
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Antiques Weekend
24 – 25 February 10:00 – 16:00
National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne
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Family Mindfulness
24 February 11:00 – 12:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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The Swansea Arena House Party
24 February 17:00 – 23:55
Swansea Arena
Hosted by Elysium Gallery & Bar
Book Here

ITT Future You Event
27 February 09:30 – 15:30
Swansea Arena
Hosted by University of Wales Trinity Saint David
Book Here

Seaweed and Shellfish Aquaculture Workshop
28 February
Bridge Innovation Centre, Pembroke Dock
Hosted by Pembrokeshire Coastal Forum
Contact donna.page@pembrokeshire.gov.uk for more information – Booking is essential

Talisman Poetry Open Mic
28 February 19:00 – 23:00
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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Cân i Gymru 2024 Launch: A Coffee Shop Session Special
29 February 18:00 – 20:00
Swansea Arena
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Changes to Felling Licences
1 March 10:00
Online
Hosted by Natural Resources Wales
To book your place email deddfcoedwigaeth@cyfoethnaturiolcymru.gov.uk

St David’s Day Mini Party!
1 March 10:15 – 12:15
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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St David’s Day Celebration
1 March 12:15 – 16:00
Parc y Scarlets, Llanelli
Hosted by Swansea Bay Business Club
Book Here

CAWL MAWR
1 March 13:00
The Queens Hall, Narberth
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Gong Bath
1 March 18:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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St David’s Day Feast
1 March 18:00 – 21:30
HQ Urban Kitchen, Swansea
Book Here

Live Music: Slipped Disc and Nookie
1 March 19:00 – 23:55
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
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Yoga for children with additional needs
2 March 10:00 – 10:45
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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UWTSD Carmarthen Applicant/Open Day
2 March 10:00 – 15:00
UWTSD Carmarthen Campus
Book Here

St David’s Day Food & Craft Weekend
2 – 3 March 10:00 – 16:00
National Botanic Garden of Wales, Llanarthne
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Transforming Health With Crystal Therapy
2 March 10:30 – 12:30
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Come to Sing!
2 March 11:00
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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Family Yoga
2 March 11:00 – 12:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Argentine Tango in a Day Course: Workshops and Practilonga
2 March 11:00 – 17:00
Taliesin Arts Centre, Swansea University Singleton Park Campus
Book Here

Home Ed
2 March 12:15 – 13:15
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Make & Take – Dragon and Daffodil Masks
2 March 12:30 – 15:30
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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The Phoenix Choir of Wales
2 March 13:15
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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Tom Allen: Completely
2 March 20:00
Swansea Arena
Book Here

St David’s Day Party
3 March 12:00 – 16:00
National Waterfront Museum, Swansea
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Good Vibrations
3 March 14:00 – 16:00
The Swansea Wellbeing Centre
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Leigh Francis – My First Time Tour
3 March 19:30
Swansea Arena
Book Here

Queen Extravaganza
4 March 19:30
Swansea Arena
Book Here

High Fade plus special guests Kinky Wizzards
5 March 19:00 – 23:00
Elysium Gallery & Bar, Swansea
Book Here

The Swansea Start-Up Expo
6 March
Daytime Event 14:00 – 17:00
Evening Event 17:00 – 20:00
Hosted by 4theRegion, University of Wales Trinity Saint David, Swansea Council, Gower College Swansea and Swansea University
Book Here

Swansea Conference #ItsYourSwansea2024
7 March 09:00
Swansea Arena
Hosted by 4theRegion
Book a Stand
Book to Attend

4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Construction!
21 March 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here

4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Young People!
18 April 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here

4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Regional Food!
16 May 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here

4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Community Resilience!
20 June 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here

4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Circular Economy!
18 July 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here

New IPM: Emerging Opportunities
2 September 09:00 – 4 September 17:00
The Great Hall, Swansea University Bay Campus
Hosted by Natural Products BioHUB
Book Here

4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Transport!
19 September 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here

4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Buying Regional!
17 October 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here

4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Green Economy!
21 November 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here

4theRegion Monthly Meetup – Giving Back!
19 December 13:00 – 14:30
Online
Book Here