Project team: Dr Helen Davies,  Professor Lisa Lewis, Dr Gareth Bonello

The University of South Wales held its annual Impact & Innovation Awards last night, in celebration of research that makes an impact on the community and wider society in Wales, nationally and internationally.

This year, 26 entries were received from a wide spectrum of disciplines and from researchers at different stages of their careers. The shortlisted projects address some of the most significant challenges facing society today, from promoting community cohesion to tackling climate change and from promoting equality to improving access to healthcare for all.

The award for Impact on Creative Industries was won by  Professor Lisa Lewis for 'Facilitating cultural awareness between Wales and the Khasi community'.

The cultural links between the Welsh and the Khasi people of North East India have been revived through innovative research by USW’s Centre for Media and Culture in Small Nations. They have increased awareness and understanding amongst communities in both India and Wales of the history of the Welsh-Khasi cultural exchange through using a variety or arts practice. This is also a model of international cultural collaboration and demonstrates how artistic practice can help communities come to terms with their complex and hidden histories.