On Monday, over 160 people gathered at the Wales for Africa awards ceremony at the National Museum, Cardiff, to celebrate the work of International Development and Fair Trade groups.

The awards were presented to winners of 10 categories, including: Youth Leadership, Innovation, Sustainability, Partnership, Inclusion, Shoestring Budget, Fundraising Communications, Campaigns and Overall Impact.

Fair Trade In Football Campaign founder, Sharron Hardwick, of Kilgetty, was delighted to receive a Highly Commended certificate in the Campaigns category, and was announced as the winner of the Communications Award, presented with a unique Welsh slate and oak award.

“It was a fantastic event, meeting some lovely people. I was overwhelmed and honoured to receive my beautiful award and certificates. Amazing! I especially thank the Tenby Observer for publishing my numerous Fairtrade articles over the years, and Tavernspite CP and all the schools and football/rugby clubs involved in our Fairtrade activities for their continued support. We have seen that by supporting Fairtrade together we really can make a difference to our neighbours in developing countries.”

Fair Trade Wales said: “Fantastic to see Sharron recognised for her amazing work! She’s a huge football fan and passionate about ending injustice. We thank her for being an amazing Fairtrade advocate, her passion and work in Fair Trade Wales has been inspiring.”

The event was attended by First Minister, Carwyn Jones, who met with the award winners.

First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “These awards are a opportunity to celebrate the many ways in which people in Wales are making the world a better place.

“Wales is making a fantastic contribution to development in Africa thanks to the dedication and hard work of thousands of volunteers.”

Other winners on the night included Cardiff based Dolen Cymru, South Wales - Sierra Leone Cancer Care and Somaliland Mental Health Support Organisation, the Swansea Siavonga Partnership, Swansea based Giakonda Solar Schools, the Brecon Molo Community Partnership and the Barry Town Council Fairtrade Committee, with 14 organisations/groups being highly commended for their efforts.

Cat Jones, head of partnership at Hub Cymru Africa, said: “This celebration was all about the huge contribution individuals, community groups and small charities in Wales make to tackle global issues.”

The event was co-ordinated by Hub Cymru Africa with funding from the Welsh Government’s Wales for Africa programme.