#FelMerch Visit to India – February 2026
Following the success of the #FelMerch Urdd visit to Kolkata, India in 2025, Urdd Gobaith Cymru is very proud to once again offer a unique opportunity for 10 girls aged between 18 and 25 who are members of the Urdd to travel to Kolkata for two weeks in February 2026.
The visit will be organised in partnership with Her Future Coalition – a charity working in India to make positive changes in the lives of women and girls who have been, or are at risk of being, drawn into the sex trafficking industry. The charity aims to break the cycle of poverty by providing education, training, and support services to help girls build a safer and brighter future.
During the visit, the girls will have the chance to engage directly with communities in some of the most disadvantaged areas of India. The itinerary will be full of unforgettable experiences.
Her Future Coalition will work hand in hand with the Urdd to organise the visit and activities, ensuring that the girls work in a safe and supportive environment. Participants will have the opportunity to make a real difference, develop a deeper understanding of global issues, and gain personal experience that will inspire them for life.
This visit will be conducted through the medium of Welsh.
If you would like to read a diary written by Martha Owen – one of the girls who attended the 2025 visit – click here
Visit Dates
16 February – 1 March 2026
This visit will be fully funded by the Welsh Government and Urdd Gobaith Cymru.
Many thanks to the Welsh Government for supporting us once again this year.
There will be no cost to participants for travel, accommodation, food, or insurance – making this a unique and valuable opportunity.
Residential Weekend – Preparing for the Visit.
Successful applicants will be expected to attend a residential weekend at Gwersyll Caerdydd on 28–29 November 2025.
This will be an opportunity to:
• Get to know other group members
• Discuss logistics and any concerns
• Participate in practical and cultural preparation workshops
Supporting Her Future Coalition
As part of the Urdd’s partnership with Her Future Coalition, the girls taking part in the trip will be expected to run a fundraising campaign before traveling.
• The money raised will be handed directly to the charity during the trip – making a real difference to the communities where the group will be working.
• In 2025, the team raised over £6,000, helping provide essential resources, learning equipment, and support resources for girls and children in vulnerable situations.
• Practical support and ideas will be available from the Urdd to help the group raise money in a creative, fun, and meaningful way.
Travel requirements - Before the Urdd books your flights you must agree to the below;
- A valid passport (with 6 months' validity) is required
- Agreement to have necessary vaccinations before traveling
- You are required to provide confirmation that you are eligible to obtain a visa in order to enter the country
- A signed comittment form agreeing to the Urdd's terms and conditions.
- You don’t have to be 18 years old when you apply, but you must have turned 18 by the first day of the trip
How to Apply
To apply, you will need to complete an application form asking for:
• Information about yourself
• Your volunteering or leadership experiences
• Why do you feel you are suitable for this special opportunity?
Application deadline: Sunday 14 September 2025 – 23:59
We anticipate a large number of applications and will conduct interviews for everyone on the shortlist on Tuesday, 23 September – so please keep this date free. We will notify you by email if you are successful.