A young entrepreneur from the Vale of Glamorgan has been recognised with a prestigious national honour, having turned her personal struggles with mental health into a thriving business that supports others across the Cardiff region and beyond.
Molly, 27, was recently named the MARVEL Young Changemaker at the Wales Country Final of The King’s Trust and TK Maxx & Homesense Awards – a celebration of young people overcoming adversity and giving back to their communities.
Diagnosed with anorexia in her late teens, Molly spent years silently battling the illness, even exercising in secret and skipping meals during school. It wasn’t until university that she received her official diagnosis. But the turning point came in 2022, during what would be her last hospital stay, when she was introduced to The King’s Trust and their Enterprise programme.
Tapping into a lifelong love of crafting, Molly launched Craft with Me C.I.C., a Cardiff-based community interest company delivering mindful craft workshops to boost mental wellbeing. From candle making to creative group activities, her sessions are helping children, teens, and adults find joy, self-expression, and a sense of calm.
“The idea that I could make something I love – something that helped me through my darkest days – into a job that helps others, still amazes me,” Molly shared.
Molly’s work has been recognised nationally – not only has she received the MARVEL Young Changemaker Award, but she was also named the King’s Trust Young Achiever Pride of Britain Award Winner 2024.
As a Young Ambassador for The King’s Trust, Molly now shares her journey with others, encouraging young people in Cardiff and South Wales to believe in themselves and seek the support they deserve.
“The King’s Trust helped me see what I could become. I want to be that voice for someone else now,” she said.
Nigel Cook of Disney Consumer Products EMEA said: “Molly’s journey is one of courage and determination. Her story will no doubt inspire many others to create change in their own lives and communities.”
The King’s Trust continues to support young people across Cardiff and the wider region, helping them develop confidence, skills and business ideas – just like Molly did.