Personally, some of the best ways to understand a place is simply to slow down and explore through it. Spending time outdoors has always been important to me, whether that’s walking, exploring new places, or helping look after special places. That’s one of the reasons I’m excited to be working with the Trust and supporting the work that helps care for Enlli.  

My name is Nansi Davies-Hughes, and I recently started working with the Trust as their Project Officer. Before starting this role, I spent a short time volunteering on Enlli, helping with painting and maintenance before the summer sprung. I’ve also volunteered with the Snowdonia Society, helping with practical conservation tasks such as clearing invasive species. 

Closer to home, I’m also part of the committee for a community-run pub in Llanystumdwy called Tafarn y Plu. I started off managing the bar in 2020, while also studying Outdoor sports in Bangor, I was 20 at the time. This has given me good insight into community projects and heritage funding; it’s happened naturally over a long time which makes it feel meaningful. 

As part of the committee, I help with the work that goes on behind the scenes, as well as organising community events and activities. I learn very early on just how much effort goes into keeping a place like this running – often squeezed in between work, evenings and the rest of everyday life!  

One of the highlights for me was organising the Speed Sheer at the pub in 2024. It was only two of us from the committee trying to keep things on track, with the rest of the crew made up of a handful of local farmers. The money raised from the event went to Dyffryn Madog Young Farmers, and in return nearly 30 of them turned up to help on the day. There were volunteers everywhere lending a hand – which really captured the spirit of the Plu. By the end of the day everyone had pulled together to make it a success. Most of the profits also went to Ward Alaw at Ysbyty Gwynedd.  

My experience with Tafarn y Plu has given me a good reminder that the best things that often happen when people come together – something that feels very fitting as i begin working with the Trust. This role feels like a natural opportunity to bring together my interests in creative living, nature, and more importantly working with people. 

Most days, if I’m not working, I’m probably out on a mountain somewhere, listening or learning music with the choir or on the piano. I’ll always be doing something creative in one way or another.