In the heart of Cardiff, nestled within the warm ambience of a charming café, I had the privilege of meeting Rhys Morgan, a committed speech therapist and fervent champion of linguistic rights. With eyes gleaming with zeal, Rhys shared his participation in a pioneering project poised to transform communication avenues for Welsh speakers who risk losing their voices due to medical conditions.
Rhys, a cornerstone of the Canolfan Bedwyr team at Bangor University, has played a pivotal role in the creation and execution of the Lleisiwr programme. This trailblazing initiative, funded by the Welsh Government, offers individuals the opportunity to ‘bank’ their voices by crafting a synthetic version to use when their natural voice is compromised. For Rhys, this project transcends professional obligation; it represents a personal crusade to protect the cultural legacy encapsulated within the Welsh language.
“Losing one’s voice is a profoundly distressing experience,” Rhys noted, his voice a blend of empathy and earnestness. “For many individuals, it equates to losing a fragment of their identity. When that voice is in Welsh, it becomes a matter of preserving a vital component of our cultural tapestry.” Historically, voice banking technology has catered predominantly to English speakers, leaving Welsh speakers with limited options. The advent of Lleisiwr heralds a significant shift, enabling Welsh speakers to continue communicating in their native language, thereby safeguarding not only their voice but also their cultural narrative.
Rhys elaborated on the meticulous process of voice banking, which involves recording an array of phrases that encapsulate the spectrum of sounds found in the Welsh language. These recordings then serve as the foundation for developing a digital replica of the individual’s voice. “It’s akin to crafting a digital twin,” he explained, “and the technology is remarkably sophisticated. The outcome is a voice that sounds natural and familiar, devoid of any robotic or artificial tone.”
The development of the programme was not devoid of challenges. The distinctive intonations and phonetic intricacies of Welsh necessitated a customised approach. “Capturing the true essence of the Welsh language in these synthetic voices was imperative,” Rhys remarked. “Our priority was to uphold the language’s integrity while delivering a functional solution for those in need.”
Rhys recounted poignant stories of individuals who have benefited from the programme. One narrative centred on Eira, a retired educator from Gwynedd, who faced the looming threat of silence due to a degenerative condition. “Eira managed to bank her voice before her condition advanced,” Rhys recalled. “The first time she utilised her synthetic voice, the palpable joy and relief were unforgettable. She could continue sharing stories with her grandchildren and actively participate in family discussions.”
The reach of Lleisiwr extends beyond its immediate users. It bolsters the Welsh Government’s dedication to its language strategy, Cymraeg 2050, which aims to enhance the daily use of Welsh and ensure its preservation for future generations. As Rhys emphasised, “This is not solely about communication. It’s about empowerment and inclusion, ensuring that the Welsh language continues to flourish, even amidst adversity.”
As our discussion concluded, I inquired about the future prospects for Welsh language technology. Rhys’s optimism was contagious. “We are merely at the inception,” he enthused. “The potential is vast, not just for voice banking but for integrating Welsh across diverse technological platforms. Our objective is to render Welsh as accessible and functional as any other major language.”
Rhys’s fervour for his work and unwavering commitment to the Welsh language left a lasting impression. In an era where technology frequently seems to eclipse tradition, the Lleisiwr programme exemplifies how innovation can seamlessly bridge the gap between the two, ensuring that voices, both literal and cultural, resonate with clarity and vibrancy.
As I departed the café, I was compelled to reflect on the profound impact of this initiative. For those confronting the daunting reality of losing their voice, Lleisiwr offers more than a communication tool; it provides a lifeline to their heritage, community, and identity.
Be the first to comment