THE Dinas Powys Fairtrade group have been recognised at a national awards ceremony celebrating the work of international development and Fairtrade groups.

On Monday 29 January, more than 160 people gathered at the Wales for Africa awards ceremony at the National Museum, Cardiff.

The awards were presented to winners of 10 categories including: Youth Leadership, Innovation, Sustainability, Partnership, Inclusion, Shoestring budget, Fundraising Communications, Campaigns and Overall Impact.

The Dinas Powys Fairtrade group were highly commended in both the Communications and Shoestring budget categories and received certificates for their efforts.

Dinas Powys Fairtrade Group chairwoman, Cathie Jackson said: “The group feels very honoured to have received this recognition. Through our direct publicity in schools, clubs and the media we have been able to engage with around one third of all the people that live in the village to improve the knowledge of Fairtrade products and the equality that brings to producers.”

Aileen Burmeister, programme manager at Fair Trade Wales said: “We are always impressed with the Dinas Powys group and their ability to link up with different parts of their community. They are always looking at new ways to engage with people on Fairtrade issues and increase the number of Fairtrade products in local shops.”

First Minister Carwyn Jones said: “These awards were an opportunity to celebrate the many ways in which people in Wales are making the world a better place. Wales is making a fantastic contribution to development in Africa thanks to the dedication and hard work of thousands of volunteers.”

Other winners on the night included Cardiff based Dolen Cymru, South Wales -Sierra Leone Cancer Care and Somaliland Mental Health Support Organisation, the Swansea Siavonga Partnership, Swansea based Giakonda Solar Schools, Pembrokeshire based Fair Trade in Football Campaign, the Brecon Molo Community Partnership and the Barry Town Council Fairtrade Committee with 12 other organisations/groups being highly commended for their efforts.

Cat Jones, head of partnership at Hub Cymru Africa said: “This celebration was all about the huge contribution individuals, community groups and small charities in Wales make to tackle global issues.”

The event was coordinated by Hub Cymru Africa with funding from the Welsh Government’s Wales for Africa programme.