Richard Evans, Manuel Alonso and Sarah Lawrence join the Board at a critical time for Disability Sport Wales, bringing valuable insight and a shared commitment to direct a strategy which ensures that sport and physical activity in Wales becomes more inclusive, with greater access to opportunity.
Their appointments reflect Disability Sport Wales’ continued focus on strong governance, diversity in expertise and a clear ambition to support inclusive sport from grassroots participation through to elite performance.
Gareth Thomas, Chair of Disability Sport Wales, said “Sarah, Richard and Manuel each bring not only valuable experience and insight, but also a genuine understanding of the power that inclusive sport has, to change lives.
“We are looking forward to their contribution, perspective and thinking, which will help continue to drive the work we collectively do in Wales forward.”
Sarah Lawrence
Sarah brings entrepreneurial leadership, educational expertise and lived experience to the Disability Sport Wales Board, alongside a longstanding commitment to inclusion and access. A Deaf entrepreneur born and brought up in Caerphilly, she founded Deaf Friendly Business Solutions at the age of 26 after experiencing discrimination early in her graphic design career. She later qualified as a teacher, began delivering British Sign Language and Deaf Awareness training across Wales, and trained as an English to BSL translator, going on to translate ITV News for 10 years.
In 2020, Sarah made history by performing the Welsh National Anthem in BSL alongside Sir Bryn Terfel at the close of the National Eisteddfod. Introduced to golf by her father, she went on to represent her country in Deaf Golf competitions around the world and is now looking forward to returning to senior golf.
Sarah has extended the teaching arm of Deaf Friendly to include high quality, affordable BSL provision, alongside the Deaf awareness training she has delivered internationally, including in Qatar and for organisations such as the Mercedes F1 team and Welsh Government. Sarah says “I’m a local Welsh lass, but with anything linked to fairness, equality or access, I try to pack a punch”.
Richard Evans
Originally from Ferndale in the Rhondda Valleys, Richard has been based in London for the past 25 years, where he built a successful international career in finance.
A passionate advocate for Welsh sport and opportunity, Richard attended Millfield School on a sports scholarship and represented Wales at youth level in both football and cricket. He is deeply committed to the positive impact sport can have on confidence, inclusion and life chances. His connection to disability sport is also personal, having grown up alongside his brother, who has cerebral palsy.
Richard said: “I’m delighted and honoured to be joining Disability Sport Wales as a Trustee. DSW does incredible work across Wales, from grassroots inclusion through to supporting elite athletes on the world stage. I’m excited to work alongside such a fantastic Board and executive team and to help support the organisation’s continued growth and impact in the years ahead.”
Manuel Alonso
Manuel has more than 20 years of experience in higher and further education, with a strong track record in student services, operational strategy and institutional change.
He began his career in student services, leading inclusive practice and support for disabled students at Loughborough College. Between 2009 and 2022, he held several senior roles at Loughborough University, including Deputy Chief Operating Officer, before joining Brunel University London as Chief Operating Officer in November 2022.
Manuel is committed to creating inclusive and equitable environments that enable everyone to succeed. Outside work, he is a keen sports enthusiast, particularly cycling and running, and is excited to bring both his personal passion and professional experience to support Disability Sport Wales and its inspiring mission.
