Mammal Society Launches Youth Ambassador Programme
Mammal Societies first four Youth Ambassadors. Left to right: Foujia, Liane, Meg, Felix.
We're thrilled to introduce our very first Youth Ambassadors, a group of passionate young individuals who are stepping up to lead the charge in mammal conservation. In a field where young voices are often underrepresented, the Youth Ambassador Program is designed to fill this gap, empowering the next generation with hands-on experience, educational opportunities, and a platform to advocate for the protection of mammals. This program not only aims to equip these young conservationists with the skills they need but also to ensure that their voices are heard and valued in the conservation community, inspiring others and driving meaningful change. Below, they share a bit about who they are and what inspired them to join this important mission as Youth Ambassadors.
Meg (Mammal Society Youth Ambassador)
Meg:
I have just completed my a levels in geology, geography and product design and am currently waiting on my results. I am hoping to study physical geography and oceanography at university next year. In my spare time I enjoy paddle boarding on my local riverways and can often be found needle felting different animals and mythical creatures.
I applied to become a youth for the mammal society in order to try and educate people of all ages in the importance of conservation. If there was one thing I could change in the world it would be for there to be less habitation loss in the world in order to protect more of the UKs mammals.
Favourite mammal: Water Vole
Felix (Mammal Society Youth Ambassador)
Felix:
I am 17 years old and halfway through his biology A level. Growing up in Dorset, I have always been fascinated by and at most peace in nature, particularly by the sea. I enjoy going on walks with my dog and swim in the sea regularly. I find mammal evolution and their incredible diversity of behaviours and body plans endlessly interesting.
Through becoming a youth ambassador I hope to learn more about and educate others on Britain’s surprisingly diverse mammal species and what can be done to protect them. If there is one thing I would change in the world it would be to end the use of fossil fuels and change to low emission renewables.
Favourite mammal. Orca
Foujia (Mammal Society Youth Ambassador)
Foujia:
I have recently finished A-levels in English Literature, Politics, Religious studies and Spanish, and will be starting university soon to study towards a LLB law degree. I am a debating coach, public speaker and volunteer for other charities with the aim of tackling educational inequality at a local level, as well as on a global scale.
I hope to progress to work in environmental and social policy and my hobbies include cycling and nature photography. I want to take this opportunity to raise awareness amongst my peers about the importance of conservation, especially in regards to urban mammals and the importance of green spaces in cities. One thing I would change about the world is making governments primary focus on climate change.
Favourite mammal. Bengal Tiger
Liane (Mammal Society Youth Ambassador) and her dog!
Liane:
I always knew that I wanted to research the natural sciences. Taking part in a bat survey got me interested in fieldwork. This encouraged me to read books and articles on ecology; “In the shadow of man” interested me the most. Liane has finished her first year of A levels studying maths, biology and chemistry. She plans to study ecology and conservation at university.
I enjoy going bird ringing and walking my spaniel at the beaches in the Gower Peninsula. Here, I observe animals like seals and porpoise. My current research interests look at the role species play in shaping the ecosystem, like marine mammals and carbon cycling. If there is one thing in the world I’d change it would be to help people realise they can help nature from home. Through not cutting down the ivy or trees in their garden which provide important habitats for birds and pollinators.
Favourite mammal. Orca
Our Youth Ambassadors first event was three days spent surveying for cetaceans on the CalMac Ferry between Ullapool and Stornoway. Read our next blog to hear all about that!