Our planet is on the brink of collapse. We are in the midst of a sixth mass extinction, driven by unsustainable use of the world’s natural resources. 80% of the world’s remaining biodiversity is safeguarded by Indigenous Peoples. They are the custodians of the most biodiverse areas on our planet, respecting wildlife and protecting land with their traditional knowledge passed down through generations. Yet they are only 6% of the global population, who face discrimination and disproportionate effects of climate change. Indigenous Peoples and their knowledge offers solutions to our planetary crises yet they are facing existential threats. We need to protect and ensure the value of Indigenous Peoples’ way of life, living in harmony with nature, is more widely recognised in efforts to address the climate and biodiversity crises. As the Foundation's first CEO I developed its initial Strategic Plan.

GCT is the only UK charity working solely for the conservation of the Galapagos islands. It’s work focusses on two ecosystem-level programmes: island restoration and ocean protection, to stop species extinctions, control invasive species, build climate resilience and reduce impacts from the human footprint. As CEO I was responsible for delivering robust governance, setting the long term strategy and annual budget, and overseeing day to day management. I led the charity through a strategic reform, evolving from primarily a grant-giving charity to driving a portfolio of programmes to build climate resilience in the region and safeguard the unique biodiversity of Galapagos. My key skills lie in developing strategies, building teams and partnerships, fundraising and advocating for environmental change with policymakers. During my time at GCT, I professionalised GCT’s systems and procedures, and oversaw a threefold growth in the charity’s income.

Trees for Cities is the only charity working on a global scale focussed entirely on planting urban trees. Their vision to plant trees in cities is global. However, they know the importance of a local focus – they empower and work with local people to strengthen their community.As CEO, I implemented the charity’s first Strategic Plan, professionalised the governance and compliance procedures, and significantly grew the organisation's reach. I oversaw the transition of the organisation from a local to an international NGO, working in 40 cities worldwide, whilst increasing volunteer engagement, tree numbers and income.

I joined whilst the charity was in its infancy, working in London delivering tree planting programmes across the most deprived parts of the city. Initially as Development Manager, I was responsible for the development and implementation of the organisation’s income plan, overseeing a portfolio of planting projects and marketing and communications. As the charity grew, I was promoted to Development Director continuing to drive our project development, income generation and marketing and communications.