Sue Pritchard

Attending UWC Atlantic from 1979 to 1981 was a transformative experience that shaped the course of my life. Even though I grew up just 40 miles away in the Welsh Valleys, arriving at the College felt like stepping into a completely different world. I was surrounded by young people from all over the globe, with diverse backgrounds and perspectives. It was overwhelming at first but also exhilarating. That environment challenged me to discover my own agency, my voice, and the power I had to make change happen.

Those two years taught me I was capable of much more than I believed. From lifeboat training to climbing and outdoor adventures, UWC Atlantic pushed me to grow. More importantly, it gave me a deep understanding of social responsibility - if you see injustice, you act. That ethos stayed with me through university, activism, and into my career.

Today, I’m proud to serve as Chief Executive of the Food, Farming & Countryside Commission, an independent organisation I helped lead from the start in response to the uncertainty of Brexit. Our mission is to create a fair, sustainable food system, one that works for people, nature, and the climate. We work with farmers, food businesses, and communities to drive policy change and champion those already leading by example.

What excites me most is seeing UWC Atlantic once again lead boldly through its new Systems Transformation Pathway—placing food and sustainability at the heart of learning. Food connects everything: the land, the economy, our health, and our future. I can’t think of a better focus for the next generation of changemakers.

Looking back, I see a clear line from my time at AC to everything I’ve done since. It gave me the confidence to lead with purpose, and in today’s world, that lesson has never been more important.