I was born and grew up in Penarth, just outside Cardiff. I attended a Welsh medium school in Barry. I studied Archaeology at Cardiff University and graduated in 2020 with a 2:1. Being from Wales I am a big rugby lover, having played for school, club, county and represented Cardiff at various levels. I have had the honour of facing a Haka and being absolutely smashed by a New Zealand rugby side. I also enjoy football, regularly going to watch Cardiff City. Over the course of the pandemic, I have taken up DIY and have done various jobs from building a computer from scratch to felling trees.
I was drawn to CCR by its ambition to tackle big issues facing the region that I grew up in. Having taken advantage of the Cardiff region throughout my life I saw an opportunity not only to give back to the region but also play a role in guiding its future and improving people’s lives.
I was ecstatic when I was offered a role. So far, I have had the opportunity to meet a huge variety of people from all over the region and its sectors. It is exciting to see the enthusiasm the people of the region have for this project and the possibilities it presents.
Name: Rhys Owen
Hometown: Penarth
University Attended: Cardiff University
Graduation Date: 2020
Graduate Title: Graduate Development Officer
Start Date: 1st November 2021
Employer: Cardiff Capital Region City Deal
Supervisor Name: Nicola Somerville
Did you apply for many graduate roles or schemes? (if so, how many)
4
What were your thoughts/feelings around applying for roles/schemes during a pandemic?
Difficult to get a good understanding for opportunities available within roles.
What attracted you to the CCR graduate scheme?
I’ve always lived in the region and had an interested in local government work. This was a perfect fit.
How was your experience applying for the CCR graduate scheme during the pandemic?
The video chat interview was very refreshing and enjoyable.
What are you hoping to achieve during your time on the scheme?
Get a stronger understanding of the region I live in and begin a career path within the sector.
Is there anything you would say to others thinking of applying for the scheme?
It is a great experience and with a great team.
One sentence to sum up your CCR graduate scheme experience…
An extraordinary chance to have real influence.
One word that sums up your CCR graduate scheme experience…
Team
How are you finding your new role? Has it exceeded expectations?
It is far more inclusive than I thought, very rewarding.
How are you finding the modules?
They are enjoyable but would be improved with in person meeting.
