You’ll want to tune in for this!
We’re excited to announce that broadcaster, journalist and keen walker Behnaz Akhgar has agreed to become an ambassador for the Gower Walking Festival. Behnaz came to Swansea, from Iran, when she was 10 and Gower holds a special place in her heart. We wanted to know more….
1. You came to Wales when you were 10; what were your first impressions?
I remember arriving in Swansea and thinking, “Wow, it’s so green and so beautiful.” I only knew coasts as places to go on holiday, so staring at the sea every day brought me a lot of joy. The people were so kind and loving, considering I couldn’t speak a word of English. The only thing I was shocked by was all the rain in the summer!
2. How do you think growing up in Swansea has influenced your life?
I was brought up with a lot of love and kindness, not just at home but also with my Swansea friends and wonderful teachers. They showed me how to be a better person. I always have a warm, fuzzy feeling when I think of my school days.
3. How would you sum up what Gower means to you?
The Gower is my happy place. It always makes me feel calm and centered to visit such a beautiful place right on our doorstep. It even looks fab on a stormy day!
4. On Gower, do you have a favourite place and why is it so special to you?
It has to be Three Cliffs Bay. I spent many summers there with my family, having picnics and going for nice walks. I used to go there a lot with my college friends to sit on top of the cliffs and take in that beautiful sea air. I even took Derek Brockway there for the walk I did with him on Weatherman Walking. That was the most fun!
5. It is evident from the prominent part you play in supporting charitable projects that walking is important to you. What is it about walking that you love so much?
Walking is the best exercise in the world. We are designed to walk, not sit. We have all this great scenery around us and we should be using it more. Put down your phone and stop clicking “next” on the series you are bingeing! I feel everyone around me is low on energy, but getting out really energizes you. If you are lucky enough to live near the Gower, go out there and enjoy the blessings on our doorstep.