"Unfortunately, each generation has been straying further from the natural world. We don't have many great role models, as living separately from nature has increasingly become the new normal. I hope to help shape our events to foster connection to nature, ourselves and each other. With chronic illness and busy lives, it can be difficult to make time for nature, so I believe in creating intentional spaces and events that make that easier. We have a great team and I'm looking forward to seeing what we can build together. Everything starts small, and I'm hoping to see this charity flourish from pinecone to tree!"

"I come from a lower socio-economic and immigrant background and have experienced both physical and mental health difficulties. I understand the challenges that can exist in even going outdoors, and I hope to use my lived experience to keep making DNA accessible and inclusive. I’ve only in the past two to three years started to appreciate the power of the outdoors in supporting development and mental health outcomes. DNA excites me because it helps create access and connection to outdoor spaces by breaking down barriers without asking for a large commitment in return. It is here to teach and give a space where you can continue to engage with the outdoors, which I think is the most unique part of DNA."

"Young people often feel unsure where they fit in nature recovery because they’ve never been invited in. They have passion, creativity and lived experience that nature recovery urgently needs, but they need support and opportunity to take part. I became a trustee of the Discover Nature Award because I believe everyone should have the chance to build meaningful connections with nature. I’m committed to supporting community-led, co-created projects that empower young adults to take action and find their place in nature recovery."

"Many young people may feel that they do not have a place in the environmental sector, with the average age of an environmental volunteer being 43.2 years. If young people do not see themselves represented and are not educated about the opportunities available to them, many may not feel that they 'belong'. As a trustee, I hope to use my perspective as a British/American dual national, with experience in how people in both countries engage with the natural world, to help DNA be the best it can be."

"I grew up in Lagos, Nigeria, on an island in a very busy city surrounded by water but with limited access to green spaces. Because of this, I understand that access to nature is not equal for everyone, and many young people grow up without opportunities to explore the natural environment. I became a trustee of the Discover Nature Award because I want to connect with more young adults, especially those from diverse or urban backgrounds, and help them feel welcome in nature spaces. I hope the future of nature recovery is inclusive, diverse, and driven by young people who care about the environment."

"Through this role, I hope to grow my own leadership skills and transition my professional energy from the corporate world into meaningful community work. What excites me most about the vision of DNA is the chance to build something truly inclusive. I want to help create a structure where young adults feel empowered to take the lead in nature recovery, turning our collective hope for the future into tangible, organised action."

"Being an immigrant to Scotland, I initially felt disconnected from its landscapes and environmental community. Over time, I built knowledge, confidence, and a sense of belonging in the outdoors, helped by the DNA community. I have observed how barriers such as limited access, lack of representation, and low confidence prevent many young adults, especially those from minority backgrounds, from engaging with nature. Becoming a trustee allows me to support DNA’s youth-led mission and ensure that diverse voices are heard and valued in nature recovery."

"When I first migrated to the UK, nature helped me find a sense of belonging, and by building a connection with the land, I could better understand the culture and people around me. Being part of DNA is the first step towards finding my place in the environmental sector. Young people often discover the importance of these spaces later in life, and I believe that by familiarising youth with nature earlier, we can reduce barriers and work towards safeguarding and restoring green spaces. It’s my hope for a future where we don’t just take from nature but give back to it, and truly learn to coexist."

"I see many people of my generation struggling with feelings of helplessness, watching the news and seeing the growing problems we face. Eco-anxiety is something I see both in myself and my friends. I’ve always lived in Edinburgh, and my way of tackling that anxiety has been to spend time in local green spaces and the countryside, though lack of access to transport has sometimes made this difficult. I think many young people struggle to see themselves in the environmental sector without relatable role models. Being part of DNA at this early stage is incredibly exciting, as it’s a chance to help build the change we want to see in Scotland."