Rachael Williams

A recovering substance misuse Rachel Williams life turned a corner when she joined Fairbridge Cymru in December 2008. Suffering from depression, anxiety and low self esteem, Fairbridge gave Rachel the support, confidence and advice she needed to help make a positive change in her life.

Rachel's confidence grew with each day and soon she found herself engaging with other young people and learning new activities such as canoeing, mountain biking and orienteering. After succeeding in her 'Access' and 'Follow On' programmes, Rachel set herself an ultimate goal of gaining a place in college, studying Sport Development, Coaching and Fitness which she achieved in October 2009 with a place at Coleg Glan Hafran.

Continually hitting, and exceeding expectations, Rachel has overcome issues and obstacles that would challenge many others. Her dedication and hard work has seen her speak on behalf of Fairbridge to the Welsh Assembly Government at the Senedd, Cardiff Bay, and directly quiz Prime Minister Gordon Brown at a special meeting in Cardiff.

Yvonne Connolly, Rachel's mentor at Fairbridge says that Rachel's 'personal commitment, dedication and sheer determination has impressed us beyond measure. She is proof that while it can take time to overcome personal issues the rewards can be truly life changing.'