Hello! I’m Athina, and I’m the Head of Communication, Engagement, and Policy at the Welsh Refugee Council (WRC).

One of my favourite things about working here is the team. I’ve genuinely never worked in a more welcoming, supportive environment. Everyone at WRC is so passionate about what they do, and that energy makes all the difference in the work we do.

For me, this role is deeply personal. My grandmother was a refugee, so the mission of WRC really resonates with me. I’m driven by the belief that Wales can be a place where everyone, regardless of their background, can live safely and thrive.

I’m especially passionate about seeing Wales truly achieve its vision as a

Nation of Sanctuary, where refugees and displaced people are welcomed with open arms and given the opportunities they deserve.

In my role, I’m lucky to lead a dedicated team who work tirelessly to ensure our mission is carried out through clear communication, strong engagement, and effective policy development

But it’s not just about securing resources—we’re also focused on outreach and advocacy to ensure our services reach as many people as possible. At WRC, we’re constantly looking for new ways to innovate and collaborate, and that’s something I’m excited to be a part of every day.