A new ambassadors scheme has been launched at the Urdd Eisteddfod to encourage more people to learn Welsh.

The National Centre for Learning Welsh says a record 20,000 people were learning the language through its courses in 2024-25.

Four ambassadors have been appointed, including singer Aleighcia Scott, adventurer Toni James, DJ Katie Owen and FAW PR chief Ian Gwyn Hughes.

They will represent the centre, sharing their personal experiences of the language and promoting the work of the Learn Welsh sector, including recruitment campaigns to encourage new or current learners.

Aleighcia, who performed at Gwyl Triban on Saturday night, said: “I’m delighted to take part in this scheme. Learning Welsh has been an important personal journey for me, and it has opened new doors – both creatively and socially.”

The centre says the scheme reflects its aims to attract and support a wide range of audiences to learn and use Welsh, including workforces, communities, key sectors such as healthcare, education and sport, young people and families.

It works in partnership with the Urdd to provide a range of opportunities for the organisation’s staff, and the young people using its services, to strengthen their Welsh language skills or to begin learning the language.

Dona Lewis, chief executive of the National Centre for Learning Welsh, said: "Creating new Welsh speakers is the centre’s main aim, supporting them to use and enjoy the language with confidence in their everyday lives."

"I’m pleased to say the Learn Welsh sector is going from strength to strength, with more people than ever completing our courses."

"We’re delighted to welcome a group of passionate ambassadors who will share their experiences of the Welsh language and help promote and celebrate our work. We’re proud to launch this new scheme at the Urdd Eisteddfod, one of our partners."

"The centre works creatively and in partnership across different sectors, providing one, single learning pathway to becoming a Welsh speaker. We are all here to welcome and support our learners and new speakers at every stage of their language journey."

Tori James, who was the first Welsh woman to climb Mount Everest, added: "Learning a new skill can be a bit like climbing a mountain – it can be a challenge, but every small step is a success!"

"I’m very pleased to have the opportunity to support people to take their first step into learning Welsh, and to keep going – it’s a journey well worth taking."