Having obtained a degree in Sociology and Social Administration at Bangor University, followed by a professional Social Work qualification, Gwenan worked for a number of years as a Social Worker (Children and Families) and later as a Training Officer for Children’s Services. More recently, her roles have been in social work education. She managed the North Wales Practice Teaching Programme for around 6 years before being appointed as manager of the Social Work Practice Learning Centre for a further 6 years. She returned to Bangor University in 2012 as Director of the MA Social Work programme. In 2022, Gwenan received an award by the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol as recognition for her outstanding contribution to Welsh-medium education.