EditorMax Boyce and local heroes celebrated at St David Awards
Welsh legend Max Boyce MBE and Wales’ most-capped footballer Jess Fishlock MBE were celebrated at the 2026 St David Awards, sharing the spotlight with a remarkable group of winners from communities across South West Wales.
Now in its 13th year, the awards celebrate the extraordinary achievements of people from all walks of life.
First Minister Eluned Morgan said: “It has been a privilege to honour all of this year’s winners who make me even more proud to be Welsh. They are an inspiration to us all.”
Here are the winners from the Swansea Bay region and beyond:
Young Person Award: Cian Evans
Cian EvansWinner of the young person award
Cian Evans from Pontardawe received the Young Person Award for his incredible fundraising efforts in the face of unimaginable tragedy. After surviving a devastating car crash that killed his mother and unborn sister, Cian has raised thousands of pounds for the Wales Air Ambulance, which helped save his life. His resilience and determination have been described as an inspiration.
Bravery Award: The Teachers of Ysgol Dyffryn Aman
Liz Hopkin, Fiona Elias, Darrel CampbellWinners of the Bravery award
Liz Hopkin, Fiona Elias, and Darrel Campbell were jointly awarded the Bravery award for their heroic actions during the terrifying knife attack at the Carmarthenshire school in April 2024. The three staff members put themselves in harm’s way to protect pupils, with Liz Hopkin sustaining multiple stab wounds while continuing to act decisively.
Community Champion Award: Faith in Families
Faith in FamiliesWinners of the Community Champion award
Swansea-based charity Faith in Families won the Community Champion award. The judges recognised their incredible work supporting some of the city’s most deprived neighbourhoods through their Community Cwtches and the launch of Cwtch Mawr, Wales’ first Multibank, which has distributed over a million essential items to families in need.
Innovation, Science and Technology Award: Professor Joanne Davies
Professor Joanne DaviesWinner of the Innovation, science and technology award
Professor Joanne Davies, Head of Simulation at Swansea University, won the Innovation, Science and Technology award. Her work in transforming medical training in Wales through cutting-edge simulation was praised for improving patient safety and preparing clinicians for real-world pressures.
Public Service Award: Dr Tipswalo Day
Dr Tipswalo DayWinner of the Public services award
Dr Tipswalo Day, a consultant obstetrician and gynaecologist at Glangwili General Hospital in Carmarthen, was awarded the Public Service award for her pioneering work to reduce stillbirths and birth-related brain injuries. She also founded Race Matters in Maternity, Wales’ first conference tackling inequalities in maternal care.
Other Winners
- Culture Award: Max Boyce MBE
- Sport Award: Jess Fishlock MBE
- Business Award: de Novo Solutions
- Environment Champion Award: Deorfa Cynrig Hatchery
- Volunteering Award: Brian Jones
- First Minister’s Special Award: Henry Engelhardt CBE and Diane Briere de l’Isle Engelhardt OBE
