As Head of Community Safety at Cardiff University and Chair of the Community Alcohol Partnership, I have been committed to reducing alcohol-related harm and creating safer, more inclusive environments for students, visitors, and residents alike. I had the privilege of attending the One Young World Summit in Munich in November, thanks to a scholarship from Pernod Ricard. A scholarship driven by a key message to DRINK MORE WATER focusing on promoting the benefits of staying hydrated whilst drinking alcohol.

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One Young World is more than a summit; it is a global movement of young leaders driving social change. Surrounded by delegates from over 190 countries, I engaged in conversations that challenged norms, celebrated innovation, and called for bold leadership. I was proud to present the work that Dr. Hayley Trowbridge and I have been leading on with Community Alcohol Partnership. Our initiatives champion alcohol-free events, support peer-led education, and collaborate with venues to expand alcohol-free drink options by listening to students, businesses and stakeholders then shaping into something meaningful and tangible. These efforts are not about restriction—they are about inclusion, wellbeing, and giving people real choices.

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Walking through Munich, I reflected on its complex history and was inspired by how the city has embraced transformation through confronting it’s history directly.

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Highlights included powerful speeches from Queen Rania of Jordan, whose words captivated the entire room, and Sir Bob Geldof, whose contrasting tone was equally impactful and thought-provoking. I was honoured to serve as a flag bearer for the United Kingdom and even had a brief fan moment passing Terry Crews (although I didn’t get the chance to tell him he was second strongest person at the summit).

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Looking ahead - Reimagining Alcohol-Free Social Activities in Cathays: Micro-Grants

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As we look ahead, we are in the midst of our innovation fund which gives businesses small-scale funding which can empower local businesses and student groups to pilot alcohol-free events without the financial risk. Whether it’s a late-night café opening its doors for a craft night or a community centre hosting a musical theatre sing-along, microgrants offer a low-barrier way to test demand and build momentum.

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By supporting grassroots initiatives, we can foster a culture where alcohol-free socialising is not just accepted, but celebrated.

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