Cynthia joined Fair Trade Wales in July via the Hub Cymru Africa volunteering programme as an Events and Community Support Assistant, having just finished her law degree at Cardiff University. Over the following months, she helped us prepare for Fairtrade Fortnight 2026 and our event at the Senedd.

“I wanted to do something different from law, to gain a new perspective on international local action and how it supports people in many countries. It showed me how real decisions that lead to policy are made, and the strategies used to win the public’s support.”

One of those strategies was ‘Meet the Movement’, our event at the Senedd to introduce new Senedd Members to Fair Trade communities across Wales. Cynthia played a huge role in the preparations leading up to the day.

“It showed me how much goes into one event before anyone walks through the door, from assessing risk to having backup plans in case something went wrong. Law trains you to think about what could go wrong, so that came naturally, and I was able to help the team when those plans were needed.

This year’s theme was Fair Pay, and it changed how I look at Fairtrade. I used to see a logo on a packet. Now I think about the person who grew the coffee, tea or cocoa, and whether they can live on what they earn and plan ahead. It made me realise how our everyday choices slowly affect farmers, and it pushed me to think about buying Fairtrade products and supporting ethical brands. Coming from Kenya, where coffee and tea are major crops, that felt close to home.”

Our key speaker at the Senedd, Martin Kinyua, a coffee farmer from Kenya, was an important part of Cynthia’s experience:

“Having Martin Kinyua, a coffee farmer from Kenya, as our key speaker, made me feel represented and even prouder to be a volunteer. I’m proud of how the event turned out: communities coming together, and groups meeting their MSs and talking to each other. All that careful planning gave people a space to connect, and that made it worthwhile.”

Cynthia has had a great time volunteering at Fair Trade Wales; she’s learnt a lot and had some great experiences.

“I’m leaving with a better understanding of how global trade turns into local action, and more confidence that I can pick up something new and do it well. Thank you to Aileen, Millie and the team for trusting me with real work and always making time for my questions. If you’re thinking about applying to volunteer, please do.”

Diolch Cynthia for all your hard work over the past few months. We’re so pleased you have been able to expand your skill set and learn more about Fair Trade. 

If you are interested in volunteering with us in the future or with our partners, head to Hub Cymru Africa’s website for more information.