For many young people, moving to a new area can be a daunting experience, especially when that area is predominantly white and rural. Nyarai, an 18-year-old who relocated from London to Llanelli at the age of 13, exemplifies this challenge. Upon arriving in Carmarthenshire, she found herself feeling markedly different from her classmates, in a community where diversity is scarce.
Nyarai became involved with Llwy Gariad, a youth group at SpanArts in Pembrokeshire aimed at empowering young individuals to express their identities. This initiative provides a much-needed platform for diverse voices in rural areas often overlooked in discussions about anti-racism.
Project coordinator Molara Anwen highlighted the misconception that anti-racism efforts should be city-centric. She emphasized that rural communities can benefit significantly from these initiatives, as they often lack exposure to cultural diversity.
According to the 2021 census, only 0.9% of Pembrokeshire residents identified as belonging to a mixed or multiple ethnic group, illustrating the limited representation within the community.
Nyarai shared her initial feelings of being “exotic” and noted how comments like these were foreign to her experience in London. She reflected on her journey of self-acceptance, recognizing that being different can be positive.
In addition to Llwy Gariad, Nyarai participates in We Move, a youth-led group that brings together Black children and young adults in Pembrokeshire. Funded by Children in Need, this initiative offers various activities that foster connection among participants.
Molara pointed out that many young people living in rural areas struggle with their identities due to limited cultural exposure. The funding for these groups has been transformative, allowing youth to share experiences and find strength together.
Indigo Young, another participant from Whitland, expressed the significance of these safe spaces for open dialogue about race and identity. She noted the therapeutic value of creating films with peers that reflect their shared experiences with racism.
As part of their musical journey, both Nyarai and Indigo will perform with a UK-wide choir on BBC One’s Children in Need appeal night on November 15. For Nyarai, singing alongside Molara has been instrumental in boosting her confidence and self-expression.
The experiences shared by Nyarai and her peers underscore the importance of community support for young individuals navigating their identities amid adversity. As rural areas continue to evolve, fostering inclusive environments will be crucial for empowering diverse voices and ensuring that all young people feel seen and heard.
The ongoing commitment to raising awareness about anti-racism initiatives highlights a broader necessity: cultivating understanding and respect across all communities, regardless of their demographic makeup.
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