Antwn Owen-Hicks, originally from Sirhowy near Tredegar, was named Welsh learner of the year at the National Eisteddfod. Despite his family losing their Welsh language over generations, Antwn developed an interest in his heritage while studying in London. He now speaks Welsh at home, and his daughter is the first native Welsh speaker in four generations. Antwn is also a member of a Welsh folk band and organises Welsh music events. Other finalists received awards as well, with last year’s winner being a Scottish woman who learned Welsh on her own.