Posted on: Wednesday 10 September 2025
A group of 31 young people from four European towns wrapped up a week-long cultural exchange in Pontypool at the end of August.
The occasion, which culminated in a powerful youth-led conference, prompted local community councillors to commit to expanding heritage engagement opportunities for young people.
The Twinning Festival, hosted this year by Pontypool Community Council with support from Torfaen Council’s Youth Service, welcomed youth delegates aged 14–17 from Bretten in Germany, Condeixa in Portugal), Longjumeau in France, and Pontypool itself.
The annual event rotates between the four twinned towns each year and aims to foster international friendships, cultural understanding, and civic engagement.
This year’s theme, heritage, saw participants explore South Wales’ industrial past with visits to Big Pit National Coal Museum and Cardiff Bay, alongside outdoor activities including a trip to Barry Island.
Anna Nöltner, 17, from Bretten. “The most exciting thing was getting to see Wales, especially Big Pit. It doesn’t matter if you speak different languages—you can still become friends.”
Cassiano Branco Da Silva, 16, from Portugal, said: “Twinning gives you the opportunity to share experiences and build bonds. I’ll cherish the memories and friendships we’ve made.”
Erin Eugene, 17, from France, said: “It’s about celebrating each other’s nationalities and differences. Learning about languages and creating new memories has been amazing.”
The festival concluded with a conference at Ysgol Gyfun Gymraeg, where youth delegates presented their reflections on heritage and the value of international exchange.
Their insights prompted Pontypool Community Councillors to pledge ongoing collaboration with the Pontypool Youth Council to develop new initiatives that promote local history and cultural awareness among young people.
16-year-old, Ruby Higgs, representing Pontypool Youth Council, said: The Twinning Festival is such an amazing opportunity to expand young people’s horizon. It really helped me step out of my comfort zone and connect with similar age people from other countries.”
The Youth Council, which meets weekly, is set to present its findings to the full Community Council in October and to Torfaen Councillors in the new year.
David Williams, Youth Service Manager, said: “Our Youth Council members worked extremely hard to ensure the visit inspired, educated, and showcased the very best of Torfaen.
“This Youth Work activity will have an incredible impact on the lives of young people, that will stay with them for the rest of their lives.”
Young people aged 14+ interested in joining the Youth Council in Pontypool or Cwmbran can email david.williams@torfaen.gov.uk or visit @torfaenyouth on Facebook or Instagram.