Our People
Meet our incredible team! From our dedicated trustees and inspiring young leaders to our passionate staff, get to know the people who bring our mission to life and make a real impact within the Welsh youth sector.
Julia Griffiths (She / Her)
Joint CEO
Julia is an experienced leader in youth justice, education, and social care. As Joint CEO of Youth Cymru, she leads funding, training, and quality assurance. Julia also lectures at The Open University, designing impactful programs that empower young people and professionals across Wales.
Melanie Ryan (She / Her)
Joint CEO
Melanie Ryan, Youth Cymru’s Joint CEO, leads with 13 years of experience, fostering youth work across Wales. With 30 years in the sector, she empowers young people, champions collaboration, and continues to develop leadership and opportunities in youth work.
Shannon Lacey (She / Her)
National Strategic Youth Operations Co-Ordinator
Shannon Lacey is the National Strategic Youth Operations Coordinator at Youth Cymru. She joined the team in September 2022 as North Wales Development Officer and has extensive knowledge in project management, research, funding, and strategic service delivery.
Jonathan Price (He/Him)
Youth Project and Programme Coordinator
Jonathan leads the Summer Jobs Programme, which provides young people across Wales with paid work opportunities, valuable skills, and confidence for the future. He also contributes to developing and delivering Youth Cymru’s wider curriculum, helping to ensure it is inclusive, engaging, and responsive to the needs of young people.
Laura Cox (She / Her)
Training & Accreditation Coordinator
Laura is Youth Cymru’s Training & Accreditation Coordinator. She oversees and promotes accredited training programmes that support community and youth-focused groups. Her work ensures quality, compliance, and learner support, helping programmes meet sector standards and deliver lasting impact.
Kate Haywood (She / Her)
Freelance Trainer & Consultant
Kate is a freelance trainer and consultant supporting charities in South Wales. Passionate about community development, she chairs Community House Newport and researches restorative practices in schools while advocating for social justice.
Yolay Rees-Mcpherson (She / Her)
Young Co-Creator
Yolay is a Young Co-Creator specialising in social media, video, and communications at Youth Cymru. She is dedicated to empowering youth voice through creative digital storytelling, public speaking, and impactful events. Her work champions young people’s perspectives, strengthens participation, and supports organisations in creating platforms where youth influence shapes change.
