UWTSD Graduate Transforms Setbacks into Social Impact
Norman Wright’s journey to graduating from the University of Wales Trinity Saint David (UWTSD) is a powerful story of resilience, self-belief, and transformation.
At first, Norman thought higher education was out of reach due to missing formal qualifications. Discouraged, he nearly gave up, until a timely discovery by his wife changed everything. She found information online about UWTSD, prompting Norman to send an enquiry.
That message led to a life-changing conversation with Phillip Morgan, a former lecturer at the university. Norman said:
“Phillip arranged a call and introduced me to the BA Advocacy programme. He made the course sound exciting and full of purpose. He spoke about the kind of change we could bring about in society, it was exactly what I needed to hear.”
Soon after, Norman enrolled and began his studies —driven by a desire to prove his doubters wrong and show himself that he was capable of thriving in higher education.
Throughout the course, Norman embraced thought-provoking content that challenged societal norms and inspired critical thinking. He credits lecturers like Phillip Morgan, Ken Dicks, Dr. Caroline Lohman-Hancock, and Laura Jenkins for igniting his passion for advocacy and social change. He adds:
“The lectures were empowering and helped me realise that I could make a real difference.”
A key highlight for Norman was the placement module, which placed him at DRMZ, a youth centre in Carmarthen.
“What a great place this is! It provides young people aged 11 to 25 with a safe space where they can be themselves and learn new skills, from cooking and drama to educational experiences and simply having fun and making friends. It is also beneficial for the local community, as it keeps kids off the streets and provides them with a free meal every Friday evening. This truly is a wonderful place, and my experience during the placement inspired me to change my career pathway. I am now a volunteer there two days a week.”
Norman’s career pathway has changed, and as a result of this experience he is now giving back by volunteering and hoping to have a positive impact on the youth at DRMZ. He adds:
“This is something that was lacking during my youth. With my lived experiences, I aim to help them focus on the positives in life and overcome the negatives.”
His academic journey wasn’t without hurdles. Norman faced personal loss, family illness, multiple house moves, technical setbacks, and impostor syndrome, but
“Despite it all, I kept going. I’ve proved to myself and others, that I can do it.
Norman enjoyed the course and found that the lecturers were very supportive to his development.
“It was an excellent course with engaging lectures and challenges. It encourages you to question the status quo and emphasises the importance of self-improvement, contributing to society, and helping those in need of support.”
UWTSD Lecturer Ken Dicks said:
“Norman has demonstrated great resilience to continue with his studies in the face of several challenges. He has always contributed to the teaching and learning of the course with both examples and insightful questions. Norman is also a shining example of someone who has achieved in Higher Education as a Widening Access student. We wish him every success in the future”.
As a proud UWTSD graduate, Norman is now seeking a role in the youth sector and considering further study.
“If the right opportunity doesn’t come along straight away, I’ll keep learning. I’m confident that everything will fall into place.”
Further Information
Lowri Thomas
Principal Communications and PR Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: lowri.thomas@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07449 998476