Women from across west Wales celebrated their success at a graduation event, picking up their Institute of Leadership and Management certificates and hearing from an inspirational former graduate.

Carys Godding, an engineer with Welsh Water, undertook Chwarae Teg’s Agile Nation 2 programme earlier this year. She is now fronting a campaign to encourage other women to do the same and sign up to the course, which is fully funded by the European Social Fund through Welsh Government.

The programme is a unique and inspirational initiative which helps working women develop knowledge, confidence and skills for team leading or managerial roles. The dedicated team at Chwarae Teg provides expert coaching, mentoring and accredited training designed to empower women to reach their potential.

At the event, which took place at the Towers Hotel, Swansea, Beth Baldwin, Learning Development Partner, Chwarae Teg, said:

“This event is a celebration of the women who have participated in the career development programme.  We are hugely proud of their achievements as they have not only gained key leadership skills valued by employers but also developed the confidence and motivation to achieve and prosper in the workplace. Having Carys here really demonstrates that and she’s become a real role model for many.

“To date thousands of women have taken part in Wales and achieved pay rises totalling over £2.3million!”

Carys Godding, said:

“It’s fantastic to be given the opportunity to share my story with graduates and to highlight the benefits of the programme, which has made such a difference to my life. It gave me the chance to take time out for myself, evaluate my skills and understand my strengths – which in turn has improved my communication and leadership abilities. I am now a lot more confident in my role and have valuable skills to take me through to the next level of management.

“I would highly recommend the programme to other women, whether they are looking to develop in their careers or to simply build confidence and expertise within their current roles. My group was so inspiring, and we have all remained good friends following the programme.”

Women interested in joining the programme should visit www.agilenation2.org.uk/for-women for further information and eligibility details.