The New Year’s Honours list for 2025 has been announced, and it includes a diverse group of Welsh individuals who have been recognised for their outstanding contributions to society. Among the honourees is Welsh rugby legend Sir Gerald Davies, who has been awarded a knighthood for his services to rugby union and charitable work in Wales. Sir Gerald, a former Wales and British and Irish Lions player, expressed his gratitude for the honour and highlighted the support of his family in achieving this recognition.
In total, 58 individuals from Wales have received honours in this year’s list, showcasing the breadth of talent and dedication present within the Welsh community. The honours cover a wide range of sectors, with a particular emphasis on community champions and individuals committed to selfless service. Each recipient has been acknowledged for their significant contributions, ranging from music to community development and sports.
One of the notable recipients from Cardiff is Richard Parry, who has been recognised with a British Empire Medal (BEM) for his contributions to music and choral singing. His accompaniment of distinguished performers and his long-standing involvement with the Pendyrus Male Choir have earned him this honour. Additionally, Diane Locke from Penrhiwceiber has been awarded a BEM for her impactful work in community development, including the transformation of a neglected facility into a thriving community hub.
Moawia Bin-Sufyan from Cardiff has been granted an MBE for his dedicated efforts in promoting community cohesion and inter-faith relations in South Wales. His advocacy for diversity and healthcare within the Welsh Islamic community has been instrumental in fostering dialogue and understanding among different groups. Another MBE recipient, Sabrina Fortune from Mold, has been lauded for her exceptional achievements in athletics, particularly in shot put, where she has claimed world titles and set records.
The New Year Honours also extend to a wider UK audience, with over 1,200 individuals being recognised for their remarkable contributions. Notable figures such as actor Stephen Fry, former England manager Gareth Southgate, and London mayor Sadiq Khan have been knighted for their outstanding achievements. The honours list includes a diverse array of recipients, ranging from Team GB athletes to campaigners advocating for justice in the Horizon IT scandal.
In celebrating the accomplishments of these individuals, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer praised their unwavering commitment to service and highlighted their positive impact on communities across the UK. Secretary of State for Wales, Jo Stevens MP, commended the Welsh honourees for their invaluable work in various fields, emphasising the transformative effect of their contributions on society.
The New Year’s Honours list serves as a testament to the dedication and excellence exhibited by individuals from Wales and beyond. It recognises the selfless service, outstanding achievements, and unwavering commitment to making a difference in society. As the honourees reflect on their accolades, they stand as beacons of inspiration and role models for future generations, embodying the spirit of service and community that defines the essence of these prestigious honours.