Cardiffian Molly Fenton, the founder of the Love Your Period campaign, has been named Young Volunteer of the Year at this year’s Welsh Charity Awards on Monday 25 November. Over the past six years, Molly has built a team of young activists and led campaigns to address the challenges young people face.
Judges were impressed by her passionate volunteering and advocacy for menstrual health and youth empowerment in Wales, demonstrating – very effectively – the importance of young people participating in conversations that impact their lives.
Organised by WCVA (Wales Council for Voluntary Action) as part of Welsh Charities Week, the awards celebrate the entire voluntary sector in Wales, championing the positive difference made by organisations and volunteers like Molly, who works tirelessly to break stigmas, distribute period products, and amplify youth voices in policy discussions.
Molly Fenton told WCVA: “When I started volunteering it was never for self-gain. But knowing people are so touched by my work that they go out of their way to nominate me for such an honourable award is heart-warming. I vowed the day I got sick to shout as loudly as I could, for as long as I’m lucky to be on this earth, and things are changing. I couldn’t do this without all the support around me so this award is for everyone.”
Molly’s work is not only innovative but also profoundly inclusive; she collaborates with charities, government bodies, and advocacy groups to ensure that the voice of young people is put at the very centre of critical policy decision-making. Recognised for her contribution by institutions including the Welsh and UK Governments, Molly regularly attends speaking engagements, drives forward social media initiatives, and hosts vital events at the Senedd. She recently earned the BCAh medal, for her dedication and influence.
Despite the challenges of her health condition, including the impact of a brain tumour, Molly remains committed to empowering young people by providing them with a platform to contribute to future governance and health policy concerns. Her honest, often humorous, insights make her both a relatable and inspirational role model for young people.
Introducing the awards, legendary Welsh actor and WCVA President, Michael Sheen, said: “The tireless efforts of the voluntary sector is something that never ceases to amaze me. It is a wonderful reminder of all the positive things about Wales. Here, in this room, we have individuals and groups who have made a real difference in people’s lives, in every corner of our country, and beyond.”
Speaking at this year’s ceremony, at the National Museum Cardiff, WCVA Chief Executive Lindsay Cordery-Bruce said: “The Welsh Charity Awards hold a mirror up to our society, reflecting both the deep challenges we face in Wales and the extraordinary solutions driven by our finalists.
“It is fitting that we take a moment to celebrate their remarkable achievements and mark the outstanding contribution made by the voluntary sector in Wales. We are often the only lifeline available to the most vulnerable in our society and a true inspiration for all of us who are passionate about building a fairer, stronger Wales for tomorrow.”
