Recruitment Awards 2025

Congratulations to the winners of the NFWI-Wales 2025 Recruitment Awards.

Recruitment award for WIs with 24 members and under

Winner - Rhoose WI, Glamorgan Federation

The WI increased its membership from 18 to 51 members, an increase of 183%.

Recruitment award for WIs with 25 members and over

Winner - Ton Pentre and Gelli WI, Glamorgan Federation

The WI increased its membership from 33 to 47 members, an increase of 42%.

Rhoose WI has attributed its success to having a fabulous programme, social media and marketing. The WI’s walking group, community coffee morning and lunch club also played a part in its recruitment success. In addition, the WI had a craft group that upcycled and made new items, organised on-line bake sessions to share the old favourite recipes, and organised fun trips, days out and community events like Bingo and Tribute nights.

Rhoose WI branched out into the community, networking with the local am-dram society, supported the local Repair Café with volunteers doing textile repairs, supported the British Legion and served teas at the village Remembrance service.

Most importantly, the WI had a fantastic support network and were fortunate to have talented, dynamic committee members who gave the valuable gift of time with genuine kindness and integrity. The committee wore pink badges, had pink diaries and pens and everyone knew to ask a “pink lady” if they needed anything. They fitted together like a jigsaw to make things happen and made members and visitors feel welcome. They were open to new opportunities with real commitment to taking members’ suggestions forward.

Ton Pentre and Gelli WI was formed nearly three years ago to meet a local need for a daytime WI, particularly for women with caring responsibilities or who preferred not to go out in the evening. Posters were created promoting the formation of the WI and friends, neighbours and colleagues also got involved in encouraging women to attend and join.

Since then, membership had grown rapidly with a wide range of regular daytime activities, supported by grant funding. The WI had established a craft group, a knit and natter group, a walking group and an art group and there were Tai chi sessions twice a month. Part of their growth had been down to grant funding which had allowed the WI to utilise the community centre for many additional hours without having to worry about the rent for all the extra activities. The funding had also enabled the WI to purchase materials for the craft group and resources for the Ukuladie, fund the Tai Chi lessons and much more.

Ton Pentre and Gelli WI had also discovered that members loved a trip. Members had visited the local colleges to sample delicious food cooked by the students; the Brecon canal using public transport; Minehead for fish and chips and afternoon tea; Nantgarw China works; and had been on several theatre trips and concerts.

At its heart, the WI focused on friendship, inclusion, wellbeing, and fun, helping members build strong connections and enjoy shared experiences.