What an amazing two days our members from Caerphilly People First had at AdFest 2026 in Cardiff! 💙 The conference brought together self-advocates, organisations, and friends from across Wales, the UK, and around the world to celebrate the importance of self-advocacy and how it helps people live their best lives.
🎶 On the first day, we enjoyed a fun and uplifting singing session with the lovely Maddie from RecRock. There was plenty of laughter, singing, and joining in. We also took part in a fantastic samba workshop where everyone had the chance to try different drums and instruments. 🥁🎵
🌍 Throughout the conference, we watched inspiring clips from self-advocacy groups around the world, showing the incredible work people are doing to make sure the voices of people with learning disabilities are heard. 🗳️ We attended the AGM and had the opportunity to vote on important proposals that will help shape the future of the movement.
💐 We would also like to thank and congratulate Ruth Northway, who has retired from the board after nine years of dedication and commitment. Thank you, Ruth, for everything you have done to support self-advocacy. 💙
📸 We enjoyed viewing the beautiful photographs from the Through Your Eyes project and celebrating achievements at the Mirror Awards. A huge congratulations to all the winners! 🏆
🍽️ The evening was filled with friendship, good food, lots of chatting, and a brilliant silent disco where everyone had a chance to let their hair down and have fun. 🎧💃🕺
🤝 There were lots of exhibitors sharing information and advice, including Cardiff People First, the Welsh Ambulance Service, Mencap Cymru, Llais, Learning Disability Wales, Learning Disability Nurses, and many more.
🎓 On day two, we attended the Confident Travels workshop and Game of Rights, where we learned more about human rights and how to speak up for ourselves. Both sessions were fun, interactive, and gave us lots to think about.
☀️ Despite the very hot weather, we were lucky to have no travel problems and were able to enjoy every moment of the conference. 💙 Most importantly, AdFest gave people the chance to learn, share experiences, build confidence, make new friends, and celebrate everything that self-advocacy can achieve. 👏 A huge thank you to All Wales People First for organising such a fantastic event. It was wonderful to meet people from Ghana, Ireland, Bournemouth, and many other places. We came home feeling inspired, connected, and proud to be part of such a strong self-advocacy movement. 🌟 We can’t wait for next year!