There is a Project Officer based in each National Park. Learn more about them below;
Jamila - Yorkshire Dales
“I’m Jamila the Project Officer at the Yorkshire Dales National Park. I’ve always loved being outdoors, from playing outside, family trips and school residentials- Buckden will always have a special place in my heart as my first visit to the Dales. After living in London in my early 20s I realised how much I missed nature and since started hiking, walking and rediscovering National Parks. I’ve loved seeing the increasing focus on improving diversity in outdoor spaces and have joined hiking groups such as Black Girls Hike and Ebony Hikers to create safe spaces and improve my confidence. Having worked in mental health for the past few years, I have seen how many clients have seen improvements in their wellbeing from engaging in outdoor activities but remain aware of the barriers that many face to do so. I’m excited to be a part of the Championing National Parks for Everyone project as it allows me to share my love of the National Parks and support more people to overcome the barriers and inequalities faced. I am looking forward to delivering the project visits, we have booked some fantastic visits in the Dales such as a Dark Sky experience and it will be a joy to support our visitors and create a welcoming space.”
Andrea - Peak District
“Growing up in Cyprus, I spent more time outside daydreaming under lemon trees than I did indoors. I visited dramatic places like the moors in my imagination as I read books like Wuthering Heights and couldn’t wait to come to study in the UK so I could visit these places in real life. My first visit to Stanage Edge did not disappoint! Having completed my PhD in refugee camps in Greece, studying questions of identity, home and belonging, I became interested in the relationship between community building and nature connection during my postdoctoral research. I worked on a Knowledge Exchange project between the Sheffield and Rotherham Wildlife Trust and the School of Languages and Cultures at the University of Sheffield exploring how connecting to nature impacts our health and wellbeing and connections to ourselves and others. Members of Peak District Mosaic were one of the project partners, amongst many others, and I learned about the inequalities and barriers to access to National Parks and green spaces through this work. When I saw the opportunity to join the Championing National Parks for Everyone project, I was really excited to apply for the post of Project Officer, and to become part of the team that is working to address these inequalities. I am most looking forward to getting to know the amazing individuals that have already signed up to be part of the first cohort of Community Champions in the Peak District and together building a dynamic team of nature enthusiasts! Come join our team!”
Jayney - North York Moors
“Over 20 years working in public service; working with children, young people & their families, project development in economic development and tourism sector with a passion for celebrating and enhancing our local offer to all. I married a local farmer, we have 2 fantastic children & a fox red labrador called Bruce; my favourite past time is going out for walks and biking with them all, we are very lucky that at North York Moors within 10 mins of where we live we have Moors, Woodland and the Coast. As the Project Officer, the most important and exciting thing for me is getting the local communities out into the Park to have that 'wow' factor of our amazing landscapes, feel that sense of happiness and achievement of completing a community champion programme and to then have the confidence to bring others and enjoy their time together in a National Park.”
