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About Us

UK Youth for Nature is founded on empowerment, ambition, collaboration, creativity and inclusivity.

UK Youth for Nature are a group of 16-35 year olds from across the UK, working together to campaign for change for nature. We are run by youth, for youth and you don't have to have any background in nature, conservation, campaigning or politics to get involved. No matter what skills you have, there is a place for you in our movement.

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Our objectives are:

  • Create greater political impetus to halt and reverse the loss of nature and wildlife in the UK.

  • Increase the visibility and participation of young people in decision-making about the natural world.

  • Increase young people’s awareness and understanding of the loss of nature using UKY4N’s communications channels.

  • Increase equitable access to the natural world, especially in those places where there is least green space and where access to that green space is fundamentally unequal.

  • Provide learning and development opportunitiesfor our Organising Team and wider network on key skills to encourage and equip the next generation of environmental decision-makers.

Nature is for everyone. 
We are fighting to give nature a future, for every generation.

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Our Mission

Our mission is to mobilise and empower young people to seek and call for decisive action on nature and wildlife in the UK. Protecting and restoring biodiversity and ecosystems in the UK is vital for multitudinous reasons, least of all for addressing climate change, for our physical and mental health, and for the long-term resilience of our societies. 

Our Vision

Through young people’s actions, platforming and uniting youth voices, and training the next generation of environmental leaders, our ultimate vision is to increase the visibility of nature in all decision-making, raise political awareness about the loss of nature and wildlife in the four countries of the UK, and secure a more nature-filled future. We aim to do this through building public, evidence-led, and creative projects that call for urgent action to address the loss of nature and wildlife – from all parts of society, but particularly from politicians at all levels. 

Our commitment to diversity

UK Youth for Nature is committed to ensuring the full scope of diversity and lived experience is represented in our movement. Environmental issues including the loss of nature and inequality of access to it, disproportionately affect certain communities. As a youth movement committed to increasing equality of opportunity and representation in our movement and the wider environmental field, we will continue to actively support and provide opportunities to our members. Read our full statement here.

Meet the organising team:

We are a team of 16-35 year old's across the UK, with a diverse set of backgrounds, experiences and ideas. Our organising team, which meets online every Tuesday evening between 6 and 7pm, is made up of volunteers as well as our core team - our two co-directors, head of comms and head of campaigns.

 

Not everyone attends our campaigns meetings, we have specialist task forces for our webinars, podcast, IG Lives, policy, Tiktok and more, so there really is a role somewhere at UKY4N for everyone. 

 

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Co-Director

Ellen

I grew up in the New Forest and am passionate about natural history education and engaging people with the wildlife on their doorstep.

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Co-Director

Roisin

I am a nature-friendly flower farmer in Newcastle Upon Tyne, and I’m passionate about connecting people to nature so that they can advocate for a brighter, nature-rich future for all.

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Head of Communications

Ben

My professional background is split between tree planting in the Scottish Highlands and organising with climate protest groups. I’m motivated by my belief that when young people across the UK get organised, we will be capable of building a richer, greener, more equitable future. In my free time I love to hike, watch birds and read.

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Head of Campaigns

Alena

I’m passionate about nature, slow living and crafting meaningful campaigns that drive change for a better world. A lover of words, good food and wild places, I bring creativity and vision to UKY4N’s campaigning. You can find me exploring regenerative farming, brewing herbs for tea or soaking in coastal Northern Ireland.

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Key Organiser

Raman

I am a zoology student and feel most happy and calm when I am surrounded by nature. I have always been passionate about learning about all species but I am most interested in birds. I enjoy speaking to new people so I want to help more people feel connected to nature. In my free time, I enjoy playing tennis, reading, hiking and volunteering.

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Key Organiser

Christina

I am a textile creator, sometimes theatre-maker and University digital trainer based in the Southwest. I haven’t always considered myself to be an ‘outside person’, though I’ve always loved wildlife in the abstract; however, in 2020 I started going on long walks and essentially rewired my brain. Now I love getting out into nature and working to protect it.

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Key Organiser

Kirsty

I’ve always drawn and been drawn to nature form an early age. After a climate anxiety breakdown in 2021 I felt like I needed to do something. This led me to designing a mural in Nottingham based on local biodiversity loss where I found out about UKY4N! I graduated from illustration degree in 2023, my final year projects and dissertation focused on how illustration can help engage a younger audience interest in surrounding wildlife and how illustration can make nature more accessible.

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Key Organiser - Wales

Joe

I have a background in systems ecology and and a passion to achieve greater youth involvement and empowerment in conservation and environmental governance. I’m a lover of all ecosystems but my real passions lie in the coastal and marine ecosystems of the world. You will most likely find me out on my paddleboard chasing sunsets.

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Key Organiser

Sęniz

I am an ecology and conservation masters graduate studying the white storks at Knepp Estate. My interests lie in the research of birds, butterflies, moths and rewilding. I have worked in natural history education in the past, and am passionate about science communication and making environmentalism more accessible and inclusive.

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Key Organiser

Aalhad

I’m a Masters Student at UCL studying Environment, Politics and Society. I’m interested in climate politics, energy policy and planning. I’m passionate about safeguarding Nature from excessive development.

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Key Organiser

Ione

Ione is an MSc student studying environmental policy and management and is interested in how we think about nature and its influence on policy. If she’s not studying she’s hiking, cycling, or just relaxing outdoors, and is passionate about encouraging access to nature for all.

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Campaign Co-Ordinator

Jake

I work as an Area Ranger for the National Trust, managing seven upland commons in mid Wales. I’m passionate about working with farmers and communities to restore habitats. Nature feeds into everything I do and every decision I make. I started this journey and changed career a few years ago and it’s the best decision I have ever made!

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Key Organiser and Policy 

Holly

After studying biology at university and volunteering with a biodiversity project for local schools, I now work in policy and advocacy for a wildlife charity. We’re all part of nature and when nature thrives we all thrive. It’s about time this is reflected in national and local policy. I want to help young people engage in environmental policy, to get their voice heard and help protect and restore nature.

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Key Organiser/Comms/Webinars

Katie

Hey there, I’m Katie! Passionate about wildlife storytelling and youth engagement, I love being part of the UK Youth for Nature team. I believe storytelling and community can aid and educate people in conservation to inspire social and political change. When I’m not advocating for the environment, you can find me cruising on a skateboard – it’s my go-to stress reliever!

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Media Spokesperson and Key Organiser

Connah

Connah has a background in law, and currently works in a law firm that specialises in fraud. His main passion is environmental policy, and believes we should work hand in hand with nature in our cities to reduce our impact

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Media Spokesperson and Key Organiser

Frankie

I am a Marine Biology Graduate hoping to pursue a Master’s in Marine Biodiversity and Conservation in California. Currently I am working as a recruitment consultant for Sustainability in the Built Environment, learning about challenges facing this sector’s Net Zero targets from key players in the industry!

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Key Organiser

Harveet

I am a biology student with interests in ecology, conservation and policy. My curiosity for nature came from being an annoying child that would always ask questions as well as going to my local museum and aquarium. My passion for nature has led me to advocate for youth engagement in environmental action and policy and resulted in me getting involved in various youth environmental organisations. When I’m not on Canva or in meetings, then I’m probably reading or soaking up some sun outside.

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Key Organiser/Webinars/Podcast

Robson

I am an Ecology and Conservation student at the University of Brighton, currently completing an undergraduate dissertation researching the impacts pond creation, restoration, and management at the Seven Sisters Country Park. Outside of this I am a Youth Ambassador for the South Downs National Park, and the Youth Engagement for the Sussex Mammal Group. My passion lies in the conservation of species and landscapes (particularly the research side) and engaging people with it.

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Key Organiser

Nidhi

I love the outdoors and am passionate about creating a sustainable future for all. I think conservation and appreciation of nature should be a priority and am always interested in engaging in conversations about it.

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Key Organiser

Finlay

I am a filmmaker and photographer from the Lake District, focusing on conservation and sustainability. I find that spending time in nature inspires awe, empathy, connection, and patience – all qualities in danger of being lost in the modern world. I joined UKY4N because I think our generation needs to come together to make clear that we value our natural spaces and will do everything we can to protect them.

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Key Organiser

Amelia

I am an Urban Design Master’s student with the aim of designing places that work better for people and nature. UKY4N is a fantastic opportunity to ensure I am always working for nature.

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Key Organiser

Elise

I work in fundraising for a charity and particularly enjoy spending time outdoors, writing, and playing musical instruments. As I don’t work in the environmental sector, UK Youth for Nature has been a fantastic opportunity to help make a positive difference and meet other people who share my love for the natural world.

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Key Organiser

Rosa

I’ve always been a nature enthusiast, and have been lucky enough to work on various ecological research projects. When not in the field myself, I enjoy working on science communication projects to make science more accessible for everyone!

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Key Organiser

Emma

I currently work as an Editor at Bloomsbury Wildlife. I love being outdoors – whether walking, swimming, gardening or just enjoying being in nature. I joined UK Youth for Nature because I am passionate about protecting and restoring wildlife and biodiversity in the UK.

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Key Organiser

Medha

Whenever I walk or cycle through the park everything seems to come to a standstill. I realise my gratitude for the world that we get to be part of, the place that’s full of life other than our own. I love drawing nature – my sketchbook and digital doodles are perhaps a testament to that – and I suppose it’s just a way of expressing the strange mix of awe for this planet and distress at our destruction of it. Protecting the natural world is no walk in the park; I am thankful to be part of an incredible group of people who are bent on taking action in the midst of the crisis – for giving me hope, and reminding me of how I can help.

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Key Organiser

Nell

Nell is a master’s student at the University of Oxford investigating the ecological outcomes of Biodiversity Net Gain policy in England. She is also Coordinator of the Nature Positive Universities Student Ambassador Programme, supporting university students across the world to take action for nature on their campus. In her spare time, Nell loves moth trapping,  campaigning for nature and youth empowerment, and sewing!

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Key Organiser - Wales

Grace

I love nature and am constantly astonished by its ability to repair and rewild. Even more than this, I’m always looking for ways that can help nature thrive and ensure that we along with future generations can enjoy all the benefits that nature brings.

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Webinar Lead/Key Organiser

Emily

I studied Liberal Arts at university, focusing on ecological justice and sustainable development. I looked at the climate crisis through many different lenses such as sociology and politics. I’m particularly interested in nature-based solutions and how the climate crisis is affecting young people. I am currently a fundraising coordinator for an environmental charity. In my free time, I like to read, hike, and explore new places.

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Key Organiser

Kit

I am an a level student and nature nerd from the broads national park. I am passionate about improving nature connectedness in young people and the local area, nature education, wetlands and the positive mental health effects of nature. In my spare time I love art and see it as crucial in communicating about building a more sustainable, nature friendly and just future.

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Key Organiser and Policy

Ryan

I am an MSc student studying environmental politics at UCL. I am interested in marine and coastal conservation, and I will be joining a leading marine conservation charity later this year.

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Key Organiser

Mystaya

I grew up running around the fields of the Shropshire countryside, which fostered my empathy towards nature and a feeling that the natural world needs more care and respect than the modern world offers. I’m currently studying physical and materials sciences, and I am passionate about transdisciplinary approaches to nature and climate restoration.

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Book Club Lead

Emily

I love nature, especially amphibians, and I try get outside as much as possible. I’ve previously worked or volunteered for several conservation organisations and now run the UKY4N book club, where we have a friendly chat about a nature book every other month. I hope to see you at a book club meeting soon!

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Key Organiser - Wales

Jasmine

I have always admired wildlife and am eager to be involved with its protection. I am hoping to work closely with nature in the future, inspiring others to do so too. UKY4N helps me to advocate for nature conservation and lets my voice be heard.

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Key Organiser

Ashvi

I’m studying zoology at the University of Liverpool. I’m fascinated by all aspects of nature and am trying to learn more about the wildlife around me, which thrives even in an urban environment. I’ve joined UKY4N to try to help make the world a better place for people and wildlife.

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Key Organiser

Alex

Since I was young I have always been fascinated and amazed by wildlife. I have a degree in Zoology and am currently working as a trainee ecologist. In the past I have worked in communications for a field survey project, and in Greece monitoring turtles and sea grass growth. Volunteering with UKY4N allows me to collaborate with people that share my passion and work towards positive change together.

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Our Board of Trustees

Our UKY4N Board is made up of some brilliant professionals within the Environmental NGO sector who help us with governance, strategy and shaping our campaigning to be as effective and targeted as possible.

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Founder

James Sutton

I’m one of the Co-Directors at climate action charity Possible. I help run the charity, and give direction and guidance to our brilliant campaigners and comms team. Aside from my work at Possible, I’m part of the Zero Hour team campaigning for the landmark Climate and Nature Bill legislation. I’m also an advisor to Force of Nature, the social enterprise that mobilises mindsets for climate action, and a member of the IUCN’s Commission on Education and Communication.

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Director

Chloe Topping

Chloe brings expertise on chemical policy and regulation as a campaigner at CHEM Trust, an NGO that aims to protect human health and the environment by improving chemical regulation at UK, EU and international levels. She also brings knowledge of climate issues through campaigning with climate justice groups. In her free time she loves a run and a cold swim in her local reservoir!

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Director

Richard Benwell

Richard is CEO of Wildlife and Countryside Link, a coalition of 66 charities dedicated to the improvement of the environment and animal welfare. He is also Chair of Oxfordshire’s Local Nature Partnership. Previously, Richard was policy advisor to the Secretary of State at DEFRA, and has worked in policy and advocacy for the RSPB and WWT.

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Director

Laura Copley

Environmental youth engagement professional with 11 years collaborating in Scotland and overseas, previously working as Scotland Education Families & Youth Manager and country safeguarding lead for RSPB. Her specialist areas of expertise include, strategic culture change, values, solution-focused co-design, behaviour change theory and practice, large-scale project development and delivery, communicating with diverse audiences, young people and education, safeguarding, stakeholder engagement and public speaking.

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Director

Mair Bosley

Mair is an environmental policy and public affairs professional, with experience at major UK NGOs including RSPB and CPRE. She is also involved in grassroots climate campaigning, with a particular interest in strategy and governance.

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Director

Kav Raghunandan

Kavyta (#mynameis Ka-vee-ta) is a Senior Lecturer in Race and Education and an Associate Research Fellow at the Institute of Commonwealth Studies. With a PhD in Sociology and a background in media and higher education, her research unpacks the intersections of race, gender, space, and power—from developing racial literacy through comics to examining the green space gap for South Asian communities in Britain. Her work champions stories as tools for empowerment, whether in peer-reviewed journals, graphic novels, or reimagining inclusive futures where classrooms and green spaces belong to everyone.

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Director

Rosie Pincott

I work for a climate solutions charity and I’m passionate about ensuring everyone has access to the natural world. With a previous role in science education I know how powerful being in nature is for both emotional wellbeing and as a source of inspiration.

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We are kindly funded by:

Esmee Fairbairn Foundation Logo
LUN Logo
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