Why Gwen would be an effective mentor

  • As an experienced Agrisgôp leader, Gwen has provided guidance and support for farmers and agri-related businesses on a wide range of topics, including diversification, tourism enterprises, adding value, marketing, farm and countryside education, horticulture, wool, sustainable farming, beekeeping.   
  • Also an experienced ICT trainer, Gwen will assist you in implementing more effective ways of using ICT to help run your business, including record-keeping for the Control of Agricultural Pollution Regulations, online banking, tax returns and utilising social media for marketing purposes.  
  • An effective listener, coach and communicator, her aim is to build trusted, valued relationships to help you achieve your aspirations. 
  • She has personal experience of diversification projects, including tourism, food and drink ventures, and is currently involved in establishing a new vineyard and wine brand.
  • Gwen has worked on share farming/joint ventures, and has experience of succession planning through her previous role with Farming Connect’s Venture programme.
  • She has a thorough knowledge of the farming industry in Wales, and can advise on regulatory requirements and the advisory structure.
  • Can also provide support with the completion of the Control of Agricultural Pollution workbooks to  help you meet the record keeping requirements of the Water Resources (Control of Agricultural Pollution)(Wales) Regulations 2021.

Current farm business

  • Together with her husband Rhys, Gwen has established a five-acre vineyard on their smallholding near Denbigh, and also assists on their parents' sheep and beef farms.

Qualifications/achievements/experience 

  • March 2019 to 2022: Farming Connect Agrisgôp leader, ICT trainer; farmer and vineyard manager. 
  • Previous roles: Farming Connect Venture Officer; NFU Cymru Business Development Manager (North Wales); NFU Policy Adviser (East Anglia & West Midlands regions)
  • May 2018 to 2022 – Aberystwyth University (part-time) Postgraduate Level 7 studies in Sustainable Supply Systems; Coaching and Mentoring; and Facilitation and Organisational Leadership
  • June 2001 -Harper Adams University College, BSc (Hons) Rural Environmental Protection 

Top tips for business success 

“Don’t be afraid to speak to other similar businesses about your ideas; most will want to help you succeed.”

“Every day is a school day - make the most of training and development opportunities.” 

“Take opportunities which may come your way, even if they seem daunting, you can usually find support and solutions to reach your goals.”

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