Why did you choose to study at Swansea University and why Welsh and Politics?
I knew that Swansea University had brilliant Welsh and Politics departments, so I wanted to study there to be taught by the best. Also, the appeal of the nearby Gower and beaches was a massive draw.
What are your defining memories of being a student at Swansea?
Being taught by absolutely outstanding lecturers, the friends that I made at university and the many sporting activities that I took part in.
"He (Professor Hywel Teifi Edwards) didn’t see any difference between 'first language' Welsh-speaking students and second language 'learners'."
What are your memories of being a Welsh-speaking student at Swansea University?
It was at Swansea University where my confidence grew as a Welsh learner. I remember the great Professor Hywel Teifi Edwards encouraging us all to use our Welsh-speaking skills. He didn’t see any difference between “first language” Welsh-speaking students and second language “learners”. And that is where I gained my confidence.
Why choose a career in broadcasting?
To be perfectly honest, it was the only thing I wanted to do. I used to play Queen, ABBA and 10cc records when I was just five years old so, I was destined to work on BBC Radio 2 and BBC Radio Wales! I also used to commentate on video games back in the 1980s - sporting video games - so I suppose a career in TV sport was also on the cards.
"Had it not been for Swansea University, I wouldn’t be where I am today."
Did your time at the University help you start such a successful career in broadcasting do you think?
Indeed. I met a careers advisor, Mr Hugh Jones, when I was applying for the Cardiff journalism school course at Cardiff University and he encouraged me to go for that. I won a scholarship with BBC Wales and the rest is history. Had it not been for Swansea University, I wouldn’t be where I am today.
What is the highlight of your career ( up to now!)?
Without doubt, getting the email from my producer to say that I was going to be part of the pitchside presentation team for the 2014 World Cup final in Brazil between Argentina and Germany.
Who has been the most interesting person you’ve met and why?
That has to be Al Pacino, who I met in 2008 when covering a Joe Calzaghe fight in Las Vegas. I’m a massive movie fan and to get a high-five and an arm around the shoulder by the legendary Mr Al Pacino is a career highlight.
You’ve travelled extensively with your career. Where was your favourite country?
Russia. I travelled all over the country at the 2018 FIFA World Cup finals and was absolutely blown away by the history, the splendid architecture and phenomenal food.
"I’ve been so lucky to have been blessed with brilliant teachers, lecturers and producers...Ultimately my faith has given the power and the ability to succeed."
Who has inspired you - during your youth and over the course of your career?
I’ve been so lucky to have been blessed with brilliant teachers, lecturers and producers who have helped me, but throughout my career, my inspiration has been my sporting hero Muhammad Ali. His quote of “having the skill AND the will” is on my wall and I look at it every single day. Ultimately my faith has given the power and the ability to succeed.
