30-06-2025
Veteran from Glyn Ceiriog receives Churchill Fellowship
Adrian Leslie, public affairs manager for the Royal British Legion in Wales, has been awarded the fellowship to study 'therapeutic stand-up comedy' programmes supporting veterans in Canada and the United States.
During his research, he will meet veterans, comedians, and healthcare professionals to explore how comedy can support veterans coping with trauma and the challenges of transition.
Mr Leslie said: "I want to understand how stand-up comedy is being structured as recovery—not just as catharsis, but as a tool for reintegration.
"As a performer and a veteran, I know humour can connect, disarm, and heal.
"I want to bring these models back to the UK and help build initiatives based on proven models where veterans can find their voice through stand-up comedy."
He is one of 118 new Churchill Fellows announced by the Churchill Fellowship charity during its 60th anniversary year.
The charity funds UK citizens to spend four to eight weeks abroad meeting global experts in their chosen field, with the aim of turning the insights into action that benefits communities and influences policy at home.
Alongside Mr Leslie, this year's Fellows' research will span a range of issues.
These include community-owned renewable energy projects, the use of robotic aids in healthcare, and employment barriers for 'neurodivergent' people.
They will be drawing on experience and knowledge from 'innovators' in countries such as Sweden, India, Ghana, Peru, Vietnam, and Canada.
Julia Weston, chief executive of the Churchill Fellowship, said: "We are delighted to welcome our 2025 Churchill Fellows and to witness the incredible drive and dedication they bring to their work.
"As we celebrate 60 years of the Churchill Fellowship, we are proud to play a part in empowering these passionate individuals to become catalysts for meaningful change.
"Whether making a difference in a local community or shaping national debate, we look forward to following them on their journeys to create lasting impact across the UK."
Churchill Fellows form a community of more than 4,000 individuals, from ages 18 to 80, working on a range of issues across the UK.
Their projects have led to the creation of new services, the founding of charities, and advocacy for policy change in areas such as the environment, education, technology, and the arts.
The next round of applications for the Churchill Fellowship opens on September 2.
Aspiring changemakers are encouraged to apply.
