Chwedl is a network of women storytellers based in Wales or with strong links to Wales. It was set up in 2017, with a primary objective of raising funds for, promoting and administering the Gwobr Esyllt, a bursary established to honour the memory of bilingual storyteller and singer Esyllt Harker, but it is also a lively networking forum and aims to encourage all women storytellers connected to Wales.

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If you would like to join Chwedl, or just want to know more about what we do, contact us at: hello@chwedl.org

We look forward to hearing from you.

Who was Esyllt and what is the Gwobr Esyllt Prize?

Our friend Esyllt Harker (seen in the photo at the top of this page) was a beautiful and respected voice in traditional Welsh song and story. She was a remarkable woman and a dear friend, and her legacy is in the memories of those who heard her songs and stories. 

Following Esyllt’s death in May 2014, Beyond the Border Storytelling Festival expressed its intention to create a bursary in recognition of her unique and vital role in storytelling in Wales. The bursary would support the development of an emerging storyteller, living or working in Wales.

Chwedl exists to support and nurture women storytellers in Wales, in memory of Esyllt Harker.  One of its main aims is to continue to fund raise for and manage Gwobr Esyllt Prize.  It is still growing and developing as a network for women storytellers in Wales.