How growing up bilingual and multicultural inspired Macsen Brown to teach Welsh at City Lit
Born and raised in London to an English father and a Welsh mother, I was lucky to grow up bilingual. Thanks to my parents’ dedication and my early education at Ysgol Gymraeg Llundain (the London Welsh School), Welsh became a natural part of my identity. Later, at Queens Park Community School, one of the UK’s most linguistically diverse schools, I was surrounded by classmates speaking everything from Japanese to Turkish. This multicultural environment shaped my love for languages and showed me how powerful and enriching linguistic diversity can be.
From Cambridge to the Classroom
In 2020, I took that passion further by studying French and Russian at the University of Cambridge. Despite the disruptions of the pandemic and global events, I found joy in exploring sociolinguistics, especially the politics and culture of multilingualism. This academic interest led me to teaching Welsh, first with the National Centre for Learning Welsh, and now at City Lit, where I’ve been teaching since 2024. I work with learners at all levels, from complete beginners to advanced speakers, and I’m constantly inspired by the commitment and curiosity of adult learners.
The challenges and joys of learning Welsh in London
Learning Welsh in London comes with unique challenges. Unlike French or Spanish, where immersion is just a flight away, Welsh immersion opportunities are more limited outside of Wales. But that doesn’t mean they don’t exist. City Lit and the London Welsh Centre offer a vibrant range of events, from choirs and comedy nights to folk dancing, that help bring the language to life.
Another fascinating aspect is the diversity within the Welsh language itself. Unlike French, which is highly standardised, Welsh has many regional variations. At City Lit, we embrace this richness — whether it’s “gyda” or “efo,” “llaeth” or “llefrith,” “shwmae” or “s’mae.” Our classes reflect the full spectrum of Welsh, creating a uniquely London Welsh experience: a linguistic melting pot that celebrates every dialect and background.
Keeping the flame alive
Even as a native speaker, maintaining my Welsh wasn’t always easy growing up in London. But I stayed connected through culture, watching Welsh TV shows like Cyw and Stwnsh, and now enjoying music from bands like Bwncath and Fleur de Lys. For learners, these cultural touchpoints are invaluable. There’s a whole world of Welsh books and media out there, from radio and literature to translated classics like Tintin and Asterix, just waiting to be explored.
Ready to start your Welsh journey?
Whether you’re reconnecting with your roots, picking up where school left off, or diving into something completely new, learning Welsh is a rewarding and enriching experience. My advice? Just go for it. The learners who thrive are the ones who immerse themselves in the language and culture. And at City Lit, you’ll find a warm, welcoming community ready to support you every step of the way.
Study Welsh at City Lit
From beginner to advanced and discover the joy of learning a language that’s as rich in history as it is in heart. Dewch i ddysgu Cymraeg gyda ni! (Come learn Welsh with us!)
