Tell us a bit about yourself
I’m an aspiring shark scientist with a background in Zoology and Conservation. I’d love to do a PhD on identifying breeding, pupping and nursery grounds for different shark species. Recently, I went on a trip to Porthkerris in Wales with my scuba diving club, where I got to combine my love for sharks with my PADI Advanced Open Water Diving qualification – we were lucky enough to see Nursehounds and Catsharks.
How did you first become interested in nature and conservation?
According to my mum, I was 4 when I learnt the word ‘zoologist’, and since then, I’ve always wanted to be one. My dad used to be an ecologist, my grandpa was a farmer, and my great-grandpa was a conservationist, so you could say it runs in the family!
My earliest memory of taking action was in primary school, where we had an infestation of bugs that everyone was terrified of – but I knew they were young ladybirds. I went around educating the students and teachers and explaining that if they wanted the ladybirds they knew and loved, they had to protect the young ones so they could grow up and thrive.
Tell us about your volunteering with Sussex Wildlife Trust and beyond
Outside of Sussex Wildlife Trust, I am the Brighton representative for the Birds and Belles female-only birding group, where I lead monthly walks. Also, I’ve recently started volunteering with The Next Generation Podcast – I’m looking forward to seeing where this takes me, from behind-the-scenes admin to becoming an interviewer for the podcast.
With Sussex Wildlife Trust, I’ve volunteered with the Youth Rangers for several years now, helping out at places like Woods Mill and Stanmer Park, and supporting educational school trips for children. My favourite is being part of the Youth Rangers at The Deneway, as it is a youth-led nature reserve, and I get to be a part of the decision-making process. A really rewarding example of this was Sussex Seafest, an event run by our youth volunteers for the youth. So many of us collaborated on the event, and seeing how successful it was gave us a great sense of making a difference in our community.
What is your favourite species in Sussex?
Surprisingly, it’s not actually a shark, but I love Undulate Rays. They are so beautiful.
What do you plan to do with your prize money?
I have a long list of equipment and wildlife books – ranging from bat detectors, to shark ID books, to scuba gear. I’m going to buy something I wouldn’t have been able to otherwise.
How do you find the time to balance such a busy volunteering schedule?
My friends will tell you, I don’t! Actively relaxing is also important to me – whether it’s walking, sea swimming, reading, yoga or Pilates, I make sure to dedicate time to unwind. I’m constantly on the go, but my volunteering energises me to go off and do even more.
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