Pwllheli Student Wins National Innovation Award

A young designer from Gwynedd has been recognised at one of Wales’ leading education awards, shining a spotlight on the creative talent emerging in the country. 

The annual Innovation Awards, hosted by WJEC, celebrate Wales’ brightest young inventors and designers, recognising creativity, problem-solving and technological ambition among learners from across the nation. 

Now in their 25th year, the awards are delivered in collaboration with Welsh Government and encourage young people to develop practical design and technology skills that are increasingly important to Wales’ economy and future workforce.  

Mari Lois Williams, a student at Coleg Meirion-Dwyfor in Pwllheli, took home the Creativity Prize at the Innovation Awards for her original ‘Anxiety Jewellery’ concept. Judges praised the interchangeable elements of Mari’s design, noting that it gives wearers the opportunity to personalise their jewellery to support their wellbeing and manage anxious moments. 

The panel described the concept as an interesting and creative piece of work, commending its thoughtful purpose and its high standard of design. 

On her win, Mari Said: “The aim of the jewellery is to help lower sound levels so those with this disorder can feel more comfortable in loud environments. I wanted to make something that looked nice to wear as well as help with the problem to limit the stigma around sensory processing disorders. 

“I’m excited that I won this award, it is a huge shock. I would like to thank everyone in my class and my design teacher as they were all really supportive during this process.” 

The ceremony, held at Pierhead in Cardiff Bay, showcased the very best in Welsh design and technology talent and brought together learners, teachers and industry partners from across the country.  

Lynne Neagle MS, Cabinet Secretary for Education, said of the awards:  

“Congratulations to all those who have been recognised in these awards. Your achievement reflects the outstanding quality of design and technology talent we have here in Wales. This is a sector that inspires creativity, drives innovation, and develops the practical skills that are so vital to our economy and communities. 

Design and technology education gives young people the confidence to solve real-world problems, and the ambition to shape the Wales of the future. I want to thank everyone involved – learners, teachers, industry partners and families – for the commitment and passion you bring to this field. 

“These awards are not just a celebration, but a reminder of the vital role this discipline plays in building a prosperous, dynamic and forward-looking nation.” 

Ian Morgan, WJEC Chief Executive, said:  

“The Innovation Awards are one of the most significant events in our calendar, and it is a real privilege to showcase the remarkable talent emerging from schools across Wales. The standard of creativity, problem-solving and technical skill on display this year has been exceptional. 

“I want to extend our heartfelt congratulations to everyone who entered, and especially to our winners. The commitment, imagination and effort behind these projects is genuinely inspiring. 

“As Wales looks to strengthen its position in an increasingly competitive world, the role of design and technology will only grow in importance. The ideas we have seen in these awards show just how bright the future is, and I am excited to see where these young innovators take their talents next.” 

For further information about the competition visit https://www.wjec.co.uk/home/innovation-awards/