The dominant feeling I had during my 2-week residency at Ljubljana was an overwhelming sense of gratitude. I had never been to a writing residency before, and I was extremely grateful for an opportunity to attend one so early in my career. Unbroken periods of time for writing are like gold, which is what the Ulysses' Shelter residency allows. It also provides a wealth of experiences that have the potential to shape not only a writer’s career, but their development as an individual as well.

Ljubljana is an extraordinary city buoyed by rich history and culture. Immersing myself in these things allowed me to feel grounded in a new place, which subsequently let me immerse myself simultaneously in my writing. Exploring a new city is also fertile ground for creative inspiration as there is a new sensory experience wherever you turn, and it’s impossible not to live fully in the second you are standing in. It therefore became easier than expected to leave my home life behind and settle into a new life of discovery, learning and writing in Ljubljana.

I think it helped in this sense that Slovenia is a small, friendly and welcoming country that felt similar to home in many ways. Wales is a country of 3 million; Slovenia, 2 million. The mountainous landscapes are not dissimilar, and both Ljubljana and Cardiff, the capital city of Wales, have similar populations, as well as an arresting castle. It was also wonderful to learn of the prominence of the dragon within Slovene myths and legends, which aligns with Welsh myth. It cannot be a coincidence that two small countries look to the symbol of a dragon to inspire a fiery passion and strength that exceeds the limits of their populations. Although the Slovene language is not minorityised and endangered as Welsh is, it’s impossible not to feel a sense of solidarity among those who also speak a small language as their mother tongue.

During my residency, I was given the opportunity to take part in the local Book Fair. It's always such an honour to get the chance to promote the Welsh language and her wealth of distinct culture on an international stage. As an author of books for children and young people, I also got the privilege to meet and be inspired by the most prominent Slovene children’s writers.

The staff of the Slovene Writers’ Association were lovely and accommodating. It was wonderful to get to know the other writer on the Ulyssess’ programme as well. Forging international connections is especially important in the current political and environmental climate, and I strongly believe that art in its many forms is the most effective and impactful kind of communication; it can cross languages, cultures and borders and even defy the latter.