From Tumble to Team Wales

Michelle Lloyd describes how community and faith funded a young athlete’s dream.

Sixteen-year-old Tianna David, a gifted gymnast from the village of Tumble, has recently reached a remarkable milestone: selection to represent Wales at an international gymnastics event in Portugal.

But with this exciting opportunity came the challenge of raising £750 to cover her expenses.

Tianna’s dedication to her sport began when she was four years old and has only grown stronger with time. But talent alone couldn't make the trip possible; financial support was essential.

In a heartwarming display of togetherness, we invited Tianna and her mum to a Bro Gwendraeth LMA service, where Tianna bravely shared her story with the congregation. Moved by her determination, Revd Lindy Morgan requested that the Sunday collection be devoted to supporting Tianna, raising an incredible £104 in a single service. The generosity didn't stop there: St Ann's Church contributed a further £100, and local firm Castell Howell also responded with a generous £100 donation.

A live Facebook interview provided Tianna with a platform to express her gratitude and excitement, and as her story spread, the support grew. The warmth and encouragement from neighbours, local businesses, and friends was overwhelming—proof of the Communities spirit in action, strengthened further by collective prayer.

With donations pouring in from all sides, the fundraising total inched ever closer to its target. On October 5th, to joy and relief, Tianna reached and even surpassed her £750 goal. Her dream of competing for Wales in Portugal was now within her grasp, thanks to the generosity and faith of her community.

She joined up with the Junior Girls’ Welsh Team and together they achieved a fantastic Team 3rd place at the 18th International Loulé Cup in Portugal.

In Tianna’s own heartfelt words: “I want to thank everyone who donated, it means so much going to represent my country knowing that Michelle, the people from church and the community got behind me. Thank you.”

Tianna’s story is a celebration of perseverance, community spirit, and the power of collective kindness. With just one request for help, a whole community answered, showing that, together, even the biggest challenges can be overcome. Let’s continue to support Tianna and other young people like her through encouragement, prayer, and action so that no dream is ever out of reach.

If you’d like to share a message of support or find out more about Tianna’s journey, feel free to connect via our community Facebook group Bro Gwendraeth LMA Children, youth and families, Together we’ve made a difference—and together, we’ll keep championing local talent.