Meet Youth Action Officer Katie Bell

Tell us a bit about yourself.

I grew up in West Sussex and have always loved being outdoors. Family holidays to the New Forest sparked my love of trees — the first photograph I ever took was of a tree! Even as a little kid I said I wanted to grow up to be a mermaid to swim with the fish, so my love for wildlife has always been there.

As a teenager, I worked for the Wildfowl and Wetlands Trust, which started my interest in birds - I still enjoy birdwatching now (definitely have way more enthusiasm than knowledge though!) and in my spare time I love drawing nature-inspired sketches, especially plants, animals and mushrooms.

And your role with the Trust?

I support young people aged 16–25 across Sussex to get involved in nature and conservation, making sure their voices are heard and their ideas included within the Trust.

What are the key aims of your work with us?

I want to help young people feel more connected to the work of Sussex Wildlife Trust and to conservation in general. My aim is to open up a wider range of opportunities for them, so they can explore their interests, build their skills, and share their passion for protecting the natural world. I also hope to ensure that young people’s voices are not only included but have a real impact on shaping what we do.

Where is your favourite place in Sussex and species of wildlife we find here?

I can’t pick just one! Abbots Wood in Polegate is so special with its beautiful trees. I also love Swanbourne Lake and Arundel Park for their gorgeous views. West Beach in Littlehampton is another favourite, with the sand dunes and wide stretches of sand when the tide goes out… there are loads!

My favourite Sussex species is probably the Roe Deer — I feel so lucky whenever I see them, they make stargazing nights feel kind of magical.

What did you have for breakfast?

Toast stacked with avocado, tofu and tomatoes — but most of the time it’s just cereal.

Tell us something about yourself that most people don’t know.

The first tattoo I ever got was inspired by Buffy the Vampire Slayer — no regrets!