Team & Board Members
Mathew David
Company Director / Board Member
Mathew is a Cardiff-born writer, producer, and creative practitioner working across film, theatre, and immersive storytelling.
A member of BBC Writers’ Welsh Voices, his work centres on bold, working-class narratives, including Skinny Fat, which reached over 850,000 viewers online and broadcast across multiple BBC channels.
Alongside his creative practice, Mathew has experience in facilitation, producing, and talent development, with a focus on building accessible pathways into the industry.
His work is driven by a commitment to championing working-class voices and creating meaningful, sustainable opportunities for emerging creatives in Wales.
Rick Yale
Company Manager / Board Member
Rick is a BAFTA Cymru-nominated performer and creative practitioner from a working-class background in South Wales.
His work centres on authentic, inclusive storytelling that reflects lived experience and connects with audiences in a meaningful way.
Alongside his creative practice, Rick brings experience in business engagement, event facilitation, and workshop delivery, working confidently across communities and organisations.
His approach is grounded in collaboration, clear communication, and creating spaces where people feel heard, supported, and empowered to contribute.
Jo Ward
Board Member
Jo is a Senior Designer | Researcher at PDR, Cardiff Metropolitan University, specialising in design-led research and development in areas including social impact and inclusive innovation.
She has worked extensively across the creative industries, leading project support throughout Clwstwr and Media Cymru for PDR, ensuring projects place lived experience and access at the heart of their work. This includes guiding research into the barriers facing working-class creatives in Wales, a subject close to her own heart.
Jo is a connector of people and projects and believes that collaboration is how real change happens. She brings critical insight, rigour and genuine care to her role at DeCLASSified Cymru, helping the team form evidence-led approaches that champion equity, representation, and long-term change within the sector.
Berwyn Rowlands
Board Member
Berwyn is a Welsh cultural leader with over 38 years’ experience across film, media, and major events. He is the founder and Festival Director of the Iris Prize LGBTQ+ Film Festival, one of the world’s leading LGBTQ+ film festivals and home to the largest LGBTQ+ short film prize globally.
Berwyn has played a pivotal role in developing Wales’ screen sector, previously serving as Chief Executive of Sgrîn Cymru Wales and establishing key national initiatives including Ffresh and the Wales Screen Commission.
His work brings significant industry expertise, international reach, and a strong commitment to representation and storytelling to DeCLASSified Cymru.