Hafwen Clarke, a 20-year-old student at the Deaf Academy in Exmouth, is being celebrated for her extraordinary achievements and resilience. She has been recognised on S4C’s ‘Dathlu Dewrder’ (Celebrating Courage) programme, which highlights inspiring individuals across Wales.

Hafwen, who is trilingual in British Sign Language (BSL), Welsh, and English, made history earlier this year as the first person to deliver a speech in BSL at Buckingham Palace. She gave the speech to an audience of 2,000, including Prince Edward, while receiving her gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. Reflecting on the experience, Hafwen said it was “amazing,” noting her excitement when Prince Edward signed “thank you” to her.

Her courage and determination have now earned her a Dathlu Dewrder award.

During an interview with the S4C team at the Deaf Academy, Hafwen spoke about her pride in being Deaf and her hopes for the future: “I felt really shocked, but also very proud when I heard about my award,” she said. “I am very proud of my Deaf identity. There are barriers, but I want to help show Deaf and hearing people that it is possible to overcome these barriers. I want a future that’s fair and equal for Deaf people to engage in all the same things as hearing people.”

Hafwen’s aspirations include raising funds for charities and delivering Deaf awareness training. She credits her success to the support she has received from her family, the Deaf Academy, her previous schools, and St John Ambulance, where she has volunteered since she was 10.

At St John Ambulance, Hafwen has taught both youth and adults to sign and worked at major events, performing CPR and providing first aid. Her experiences have shaped her desire to support and inspire others.

Hafwen’s journey has not been without challenges. After starting her education at a Welsh-language mainstream primary school, her access to learning support in Welsh BSL ended abruptly. Her parents withdrew her from the school, sparking a battle with the local council. She later attended an English-medium school and adapted to learning in English.

Now training to be a hairdresser at Exeter College, which partners with the Deaf Academy, Hafwen continues to receive support in sign language and wellbeing. The Academy is proud of her achievements.

“Hafwen is truly an incredible young woman and such an inspiring role model to our younger students,” said Sylvan Dewing, Principal of the Deaf Academy. “We’re excited to see what the future holds for her.”

Hafwen’s story will air on Dathlu Dewrder on December 27 at 8pm on S4C, showcasing her journey and highlighting her impact as a trailblazer for the Deaf community.

Lily Beau, a presenter for the show, praised Hafwen: “Hafwen’s story is an amazing one, and she is an inspiration to other Deaf young people. She shows that Deaf people will and can succeed.”

For more information on the Deaf Academy, click here.