Connor Morgan, Former Flight Wings Member and 'Friend of Valleys Kids

Описание: Connor first joined Valleys Kids at 10 years old in 2003, attending a Tuesday drama workshop in Penygraig. He instantly felt welcomed, made lifelong friends, and continued attending throughout his teens. As he grew older, he progressed into Flight Wings, the older youth drama group, gaining opportunities to work with National Theatre Wales and Mzansi Cymru.
By around age 16–17, Connor began volunteering, helping run workshops, supporting summer projects in Penygraig, Dinas and Penyrenglyn, performing in shows, and even helping with practical tasks like food runs. Valleys Kids became a major part of his life for over 20 years. More recently, as an adult, he now supports the charity through Friends of Valleys Kids, helping raise awareness and funds.
Connor describes Valleys Kids as transformational, providing a safe, creative space where he learned confidence, communication, teamwork, and how to be comfortable in himself—skills he now uses daily as a manager of 23 analysts in a toxicology lab. He says he draws more on the life skills learned at Valleys Kids than the academic skills from school.
He shared meaningful lessons, including learning accountability after dropping out of a show and being supported to reflect and take responsibility. He is proud of a powerful monologue he performed in a Holocaust Education Trust piece—an experience that built his confidence and became a turning point in his life.
Connor believes Valleys Kids is vital to the community, offering open access, support, and opportunities that schools or formal services often can’t provide. It creates connection for families, young people, and older residents alike.
His favourite memories include drama workshops with close friends, summer shows, and residential trips to Little Bryn Gwyn—late-night beach walks, cooking together, and playful group games that created lasting friendships and joy.