Broadcaster Mari Grug, former Wales international Joe Allen, and reggae artist Aleighcia Scott were among those inducted into Gorsedd Cymru by Archdruid of Wales Mererid Hopwood, during a special ceremony at the National Eisteddfod held in Llantwd near Cardigan.
Ms Grug, from Mynachlog-ddu, was recognised for her work as an S4C and Radio Cymru broadcaster and her openness in documenting her cancer journey, which inspired many across Wales.
She said: “I feel the excitement and I’m very emotional but I’m really looking forward.
“It’s a great honour and the whole family will be here.”
Ms Grug also said she was delighted to share the occasion with her mother, Ann Siriol Davies, who was also honoured at the ceremony.
Ms Davies is renowned as an adjudicator and author of children’s books.
She said: “Being inducted into the Gorsedd is one thing but doing so on the doorstep of my home is special.
“And doing that with Mari is even more special.
“We will celebrate after the ceremony.”
Joe Allen, who represented Wales 77 times and played in the historic World Cup team, said he was more nervous about the Eisteddfod ceremony than any World Cup game.
Mr Allen said: “In a football match I know what to expect and what to do but this ceremony is completely new to me.
“I didn’t expect to be invited and it was a bit of a shock but it’s a great honour and I’m very grateful.”
Welsh-Jamaican reggae singer Aleighcia Scott, from Cardiff, was recognised for her groundbreaking Welsh-language music, including the first Welsh reggae song to reach number one on iTunes.
She said: “When I started learning Welsh, I didn’t think I would join the Gorsedd at all.
“I look around me and see well-known people who have done so much for Wales and I am very happy to be here.”
Other inductees included broadcaster Heledd Cynwal, arts ambassador Eluned Haf, and community volunteers Wyn and Meirwen Evans.
Pembrokeshire Coast National Park chief executive Tegryn Jones and musician Ryland Teifi were also honoured.
The National Eisteddfod continues throughout the week, celebrating Welsh culture and language across music, literature and the arts.
