“Not Your Usual Hustings” Event

Swansea MAD was proud to support the “Not Your Usual Hustings” event alongside lead project partners Boys’ and Girls’ Club of Wales at Dowlais Community Centre ahead of the 2026 Senedd elections.

Group photo of Senedd candidates and event organisers standing between Boys and Girls Clubs of Wales and Swansea MAD banners. Several people are holding small framed illustrated portraits, posed against a brick wall in Dowlais Community Centre.

The event was created for a space for young people to engage directly with candidates from across the political spectrum asking thoughtful, informed and sometimes challenging questions about the future of Wales. Using a roundtable format, with young people rotating between small group discussions, made conversations feel more open, personal and accessible.

A huge thank you to everyone involved, especially the young people whose energy, confidence and honesty made the day so impactful. We are also grateful to our supporters from The Politics Project, The Electoral Commission, Senedd Education Team and ProMo Cymru, alongside schools and youth work organisations including RCT Yeps, S&G Youth Forum and NYAS (National Youth Advocacy Service).

Opportunities like this matter. When young people are given the space and confidence to share their views directly with decision makers, it strengthens participation and helps ensure their voices are heard.