AN AWARD-WINNING adult learner has transformed his confidence and set his sights on a career in engineering after returning to education at Coleg Cambria.

Yaser Iranshahi, originally from Iran and now living in Llay, near Wrexham, says improving his English language and communication skills has given him the confidence to pursue new opportunities and plan for the future.

After studying Speaking, Listening, Reading, Writing and IT at Cambria, Yaser was named Yale Learn English Learner of the Year 2026.

He received the accolade not only for his progress but for the positive impact he had on the Learn English department, supporting fellow students and helping create a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Now Yaser is taking another significant step, having enrolled on the Level 2 Diploma in Engineering at the college’s Bersham Road site.

His journey is being celebrated as part of Adult Learners’ Week, an annual campaign highlighting how returning to education can help people develop skills, build confidence, gain qualifications and take their lives and careers in a new direction.

“At first, I chose Coleg Cambria because it was close to where I live,” said Yaser.

“But later, I made some good friends and met kind teachers. I also really liked the friendly atmosphere at the college, and I started to love being there.

“Before I started at Cambria, I was very nervous about speaking English. I even did not like answering the phone because I was worried about speaking.

“Now I have much more confidence. I answer the phone with confidence, and I am not as worried as before.

“I don’t think my English is perfect yet, but I am trying to improve every day. I also have more confidence to apply for jobs and go to job interviews.”

Returning to the classroom after many years was initially daunting, but Yaser says the support he received made the transition easier.

“I never believed that after so many years I would be able to sit in a classroom again,” he said.

“It almost felt like going back to my younger years and being a student again. But I actually prefer studying now because I really feel that Coleg Cambria is a great place to learn.

“The support from the teachers and staff made me enjoy learning and gave me more motivation.”

Yaser’s tutors said he consistently uplifted students and staff through his kindness, encouragement and commitment to inclusion, helping others feel welcome and confident regardless of their background.

They also praised his resilience and empathy, including an occasion when he supported a student in distress by helping with translation and ensuring they felt understood.

Receiving the prize in front of his family was an emotional moment.

“The best part was receiving the award in front of my wife and children,” said Yaser. “It was one of the best nights of my life, and I will always remember it.”

He thanked his wife for her encouragement and teachers Ceri Thomas, Sarah Ashley, Hazal Ayaz and Helena Sperring for their kindness and support.

Looking ahead to his Engineering course, Yaser added: “I am excited about this next step and hope it will help me build a better future and career.

“I am very happy to be a student at Coleg Cambria, and I hope my story can encourage other adults who are thinking about going back into education.”

For more information about Adult Learners’ Week, visit www.adultlearnersweek.wales, and for adult learning opportunities at Coleg Cambria visit www.cambria.ac.uk.