WITH the coronation of King Charles III coming up this weekend, we take a look back at how his youth charity The Prince’s Trust helped a Llandeilo woman achieve her dreams.

The Prince’s Trust has helped more than one million young people since its formation in 1976 by Charles, the then-Prince of Wales.

The charity was founded in response to rioting and high unemployment among young people.

One of the people to benefit from the charity is a Llandeilo jewellery designer called Mari Thomas. She took part in the trust’s enterprise programme in 1998 and it gave her the opportunity and confidence to start her own business.

Speaking in 2020, Mari said: “The Prince’s Trust was able to give me the opportunity and confidence to launch my own business. Without initial help from The Prince’s Trust, I certainly would not have the successful business I have today.

“My business and career is my passion and it has created a life full of opportunities that I never dreamed possible. Young people need help from organisations like Prince’s Trust Cymru, now more than ever, to give them the support to guide them through the uncertain times and realise that they can still achieve their dreams.”

Mari is now an award-winning jewellery designer and has had her work exhibited both nationally and internationally and has designed statement pieces for a number of well-known stars including Rhod Gilbert and Ioan Gruffudd.

She began her business in the shed at the bottom of her parent’s garden and now owns the former Castle Hotel in Llandeilo, where her gallery and workshop are housed. She also now employs a small team and had supported local womenswear designer Lian Cara, who set up her own business following support from Prince’s Trust Cymru.

Mari continued: “I am fortunate enough to be in a position where I can use my experience of running a business to guide and mentor young entrepreneurs and pass on the help that was given to me.”

Mari was also able to thank the future king by presenting him with a pair of cufflinks.