Canolfan Bedwyr won the Ground Breaker award, a category that celebrates outstanding research and development within the Creative-Digital sector. Canolfan Bedwyr was recognised for its work in advancing Welsh-language AI, including API development, machine translation and the Macsen voice assistant. This innovative work supports the growth of Welsh-language technology and strengthens the digital ecosystem across North Wales.
The Sector Star award was presented to Carol Ann Jones, Manager Screen Academy Wales based at the School of Arts, Culture and Language, acknowledging her leadership and dedication to developing skills and supporting collaboration within the film and screen industries.
Reflecting on the award, Carol said, “It’s a special privilege to receive this award on behalf of the Screen Academy. I appreciate the support the Academy gets from the sector, from freelancers who collaborate with us, and we really understand the power of the ‘network’ in the region. A great night.”
Daniel Williams, recently appointed Digital Content Producer in the Brand Marketing team, was also recognised on the night, taking second place in the Future Star category for work completed in his previous role at M-SParc.
Additionally, the Rising Star award went to third-year Welsh and Journalism student, Begw Elain.
Professor Ruth McElroy, Head of the School of Arts, Culture and Language, said, “This is entirely well-deserved recognition for the transformative work Bangor University is accomplishing in our region’s creative economy. I am hugely proud of what Carol and Begw have accomplished and delighted to see colleagues at Canolfan Bedwyr and Daniel being celebrated for their innovation and talent. Their success radiates outwards, inspiring young people in North Wales to see a career in the creative industries where they can thrive.”
Learn more about Creative North and its network of creative practitioners on the Creative North website.