Talented Pembrokeshire sixth former mingles with senior Welsh women

A talented A level student from Pembrokeshire has met senior politicians and public figures at the Welsh Parliament in Cardiff Bay (Wednesday 13 March).

Promising student Elinor Pritchard (aged 18) was invited by her local Senedd Member, Joyce Watson MS, as her guest at a prestigious event to celebrate International Women’s Day.

Elinor had previous work experience with Mrs Watson, who has mentored a range of young people.

The ‘In Conversation’ evening with Dame Amanda Blanc, CEO of Aviva, allowed Elinor to network with ministers, Senedd Members and with professional women working in Wales.

After the talk Dame Amanda Blanc spoke with Elinor, advising and encouraging her in her plans for her future career.

Dame Amanda Blanc, who is originally from the Rhondda Valley, is the Group Chief Executive Officer of Aviva and is one of The Financial Times’ ‘25 Most Influential Women of 2022’.

The event was hosted by broadcaster Betsan Powys. Dame Blanc discussed her career, the barriers she had overcome, and gave advice to the next generation of Welsh businesswomen and professionals.

Speaking after the event, Joyce Watson MS (Mid and West Wales) said:

“I was delighted to give Elinor this chance to meet role models like Dame Amanda.

“Elinor shows huge potential, and I was deeply impressed when she helped me on an event to mark White Ribbon Day, the international day to end violence against women and girls. I wish her every success for the future.”

Elinor Pritchard of Neyland is a sixth form student at Haverfordwest High School in Pembrokeshire. She is studying for A levels in history, government and politics, sociology and second language Welsh. She is actively involved in various organisations such as the Pembrokeshire Youth Assembly, Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, Girlguiding Cymru and the Labour Party.