A Barry woman who returned to education in her 30s after becoming a teenage mum has won an award for inspiration.

Eve Salter, who was a single parent as a teenager, felt left behind as her friends went on to college or university and secured good jobs.

The responsibility of being a young parent and concerns about her future career prospects led Ms Salter into severe depression.

She also suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder due to some life choices, which damaged her confidence and self-esteem.

After a long recovery, she decided to return to education in her 30s to complete her GCSEs.

She then began a Level 2 Business Administration qualification with Cardiff and Vale College, which was completed two months early.

Ms Salter has now progressed to Level 3.

Her commitment to learning has been recognised with the Learning for Better Health Award, which she will receive at the Inspire! Adult Learning Awards 2024 ceremony at the Coal Exchange Hotel, Cardiff on September 10.

She is one of a dozen award winners.

Ms Salter said: "It was a big surprise and I’m very happy to be setting a really good example to my daughter.

"Winning the award confirms to me that I am doing well and it gives me the motivation to carry on learning.

"There is nothing worse than feeling that you are not reaching your full potential."

Ms Salter, 32, a Public Health Wales business administrator, has progressed to a Band 4 salary at work after two promotions and is now eyeing a qualification in event planning, a key part of her job.

She said: "If you’re not careful as a young mother, you can lose your identity but returning to learning has really helped to turn everything around.

"It’s only now that my daughter is older that I have the opportunity to think about my career.

"I want to set a good example to her and inspire other young mums to do the same.

"Going back to education as an adult is scary and may have felt like I was behind everyone else.

"However, with maturity and life experience on my side, it has been an interesting and exciting journey at a time in my life when I feel completely ready and committed to learn."

Her nominator, Michele Gate, formerly of Cardiff and Vale College, said: "Eve’s unwavering commitment to personal growth and her infectious passion for learning have left an indelible mark on those around her.

"What sets Eve apart is her passion for helping others, as part of the wider contribution she makes in her role at Public Health Wales to support change for the betterment of others."

For adults in Wales keen to start their learning journey, in-person taster courses and online sessions will run throughout September and during Adult Learners’ Week.

Joshua Miles, Learning and Work Institute director, said: "I would like to congratulate all the nominees and winners of the 2024 Inspire! Adult Learner Awards and to thank them for sharing their inspiring stories with us.

"They have overcome significant challenges, such as health issues, unemployment, low confidence, or caring responsibilities, and have transformed their lives through learning.

"In doing so, they have also inspired others to follow in their footsteps and have made a positive difference to communities across Wales."