First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth has spoken of his lifelong connection to the National Eisteddfod.
In a recent interview, he reflected on his many personal and professional experiences at the event, from childhood pageants to broadcasting and, now, political leadership.
Mr ap Iorwerth, who has represented Ynys Môn in the Senedd since 2013 and became First Minister earlier this year, said: "It’ll certainly be a new experience being on the Maes as First Minister.
"I will have a full diary of commitments, but I’ll be on the Maes in Llantwd for several days and I’m very much looking forward to it."
From a young age, the Eisteddfod has been a central part of Mr ap Iorwerth’s life.
He said: "The National Eisteddfod has been a huge part of my life.
"I have a hazy memory of being at the Cardigan Eisteddfod in 1976.
"When the Eisteddfod came to Llangefni in 1983, I was part of the children’s pageant, a musical about the life of Huw Cymuned, one of Anglesey’s characters."
His later involvement included performing as part of the band 69 and presenting programmes for the BBC and S4C.
In 2025, he was admitted to Gorsedd Cymru in recognition of his contributions to Welsh life.
Much of his public service, he says, was inspired by his mother, Gwyneth Morus Jones, whose death in 2012 prompted him to move into politics.
He said: "I know that my mother made an enormous contribution to her community and to Wales.
"The things that were said about her made it very clear to me that I could not go through life without making a contribution myself, if that was at all possible."
Mrs Morus Jones, a respected teacher and cultural leader, was commemorated at the Eisteddfod with the creation of the Gwyneth Morus Jones Memorial Award, which recognises young reciters aged 16 to under 21.
Read more
'It's a privilege': Owner celebrates 100 years of much-loved Anglesey café
Rare turtle rescued on Anglesey beach set to make 5,000 mile journey home
Menai Suspension Bridge to close again to celebrate landmark's 200th birthday
He said: "After she died, we were keen to establish something in her memory, and we were very pleased that this competition was created in her honour."
Reflecting on Plaid Cymru’s historic roots at the Eisteddfod Maes in Pwllheli a century ago, Mr ap Iorwerth reiterated his support for Welsh culture during uncertain economic times.
He said: "I hope the Eisteddfod will regard this government as a supportive friend."
Share