A political refugee forced to flee his homeland has shared his journey of settling in Wales, learning Welsh, and championing the language. Joseff Gnagbo, aged 50, left Ivory Coast in 2011 and now resides in Rumney, Cardiff. He serves as the national chair of the language group Cymdeithas yr Iaith and was recently honoured at the National Eisteddfod in Pontypridd by being welcomed into the Gorsedd of the Bard. Joseff fully embraces Welsh culture and language, committed to reviving the language in Cardiff and beyond.
Before moving to Wales, Joseff worked in linguistics at a university in Abidjan, teaching various languages such as Italian, German, English, French, and others. An activist in Ivory Coast, Joseff advocated for sovereignty, which led to persecution during the civil unrest in the country. Fleeing in 2011 due to escalating conflicts, Joseff made his way to Wales, a place he initially knew little about. Arriving in Wales in March 2018, he was captivated by the greenery and unique cultural traits.
Learning Welsh at the Oasis centre in Cardiff, Joseff quickly embraced the language, eventually becoming fluent. He won a Welsh beginner award in 2020 and became the national chair of Cymdeithas yr Iaith in 2023. Recently welcomed into the Gorsedd of the Bards, Joseff feels a deep connection to Wales and its people. Despite facing challenges and xenophobic incidents, Joseff sees Wales as a welcoming nation with a message of acceptance and unity he is proud to promote.
Joseff’s journey from a refugee to a Welsh language advocate showcases the power of cultural integration and acceptance. His commitment to revitalising the Welsh language and culture in Cardiff and beyond is a testament to the resilience and determination of individuals seeking sanctuary and a sense of belonging.