Anya Sequeira, Year 2 BA Journalism, Media and Communications
In March and April 2026, three Swansea University Media and Communications students began an internship with a local charity. Advocates and Angels is a Swansea-based volunteer-driven charity aiding families facing disability, illness, hospitalisation, or bereavement of children.
Bethan Germon started the charity in memory of her late daughter, Lydia. The charity works closely with NHS hospitals around the country. The charity helps by providing various care packages, such as the Chrysalis package, which provides essentials to parents and carers who have had to arrive at the hospital suddenly. Alongside the Chrysalis care package, various other packs aid in breastfeeding and help children maintain hygiene habits while in care. They also aim to combat the fear and intimidation that children experience during medical care.
The three students interning with Advocates and Angels managed social media for the charity, including Instagram, Facebook and TikTok accounts. Anya Sequeira is a second year studying Journalism, Media and Communications; Morgan Elston is also a second year studying Media and Communications; and Ife Olaitan is a first year studying Public Relations and Media. Bethan Germon said that ‘The enthusiasm and passion across the students is obvious. They genuinely care about what we’re building and are keen to push the charity forward. What’s been really lovely to see is that while they’re all equally committed and capable, their strengths show up in different ways, which means they naturally complement each other. You can see that not just in how they work together, but in the quality of what they’re producing too.’
During the internship, the work the three students did included acting, writing, directing, video and photo editing to create TikToks and Instagram reels as well as other social media content. Each student took on specific aspects within the task to create unique and engaging content for the organisation. Bethan stated that ‘They’ve all shown up with a great attitude, and importantly, they’re not afraid to ask questions to get things right. Each student has brought their own perspective and ideas which is brilliant and everything has been very collaborative. That, to me, is exactly how you learn and grow. I’m confident that if they keep showing up like this, they’ll all go on to do really well in whatever they choose to do.’
Ife Olaitan said that ‘Working at Advocates and Angels so far has been amazing! For the first time, I’m in a position where I have almost complete creative freedom and am able to implement everything I’ve learnt so far. Applying for the internship in my first year, I believe, will be one of the best decisions I will make at University.’ The time at Advocates and Angels has taught everyone a myriad of abilities that they can take forward into their professional lives. Morgan Elston said ‘My internship with advocates and angels has been a wonderful and insightful experience. Working here has allowed me to develop my skills and express my creativity in a welcoming environment. Being able to be a part of such an amazing team of people to help others is an honour, and I am extremely happy I have this opportunity.’