“I’m the Community Engagement Officer at Cumbria Connect which means I get to work with local people and find ways for everyone to be part of all the brilliant nature restoration work that’s happening across this landscape,” says Emma. “It’s about bringing people together to celebrate the land and the life that calls it home.”

“Community engagement – or simply people – are absolutely essential to nature recovery,” Emma explains.  “The long-term success of any project depends on local support – it thrives when communities feel included and inspired.

“From running family-friendly nature workshops to leading community walks, to hosting events and working with young people, it’s about helping people feel part of something bigger. When we understand and love the places we live in, we’re more likely to protect them.

Before joining Cumbria Connect, Emma worked on City of Threads, an immersive podcast co-created by visually impaired and sighted artists.

“It was one of those projects that just stays with you,” she says.  “It was an absolute joy to work with so many inspiring people.”

Since joining the team, one particular day stands out:

“Helping to release Glow Worms up on Knipe Scar was pretty special.  We hiked with a group of volunteers, released the larvae into their new limestone-rich home and then celebrated with a picnic lunch overlooking the Lowther valley.  It was a great moment to remind you why this work matters.”

“I studied Drama at the University of Bristol and started out in the community arts world – helping people of all ages use creativity to connect and express themselves. 

“Later, I trained as a Mountain Leader, guiding hikes across the UK and running outdoor learning sessions. I also spent a couple of years exploring the Canadian wilderness, which really deepened my respect for wild places.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have landed this role with Cumbria Connect that combines my love for working with people and the natural world.”

“I have always loved spending time in the great outdoors and understand how important it is to our health and well-being.

“Over the years, I’ve started noticing more of the details – the flowers that cling to cliff faces when I’m climbing, or the lichens that grow between boulders on the fells. Spending more time outside has allowed me to zoom in and take notice of things. Rather than simply enjoying the views, I’ve become more curious about the natural world, and that curiosity pulls you closer to nature.  

“Seeing first-hand the impact humans have on the landscape has made me want to be a part of restoring it – giving nature the space it needs to thrive again.”

“I’m lucky enough to cycle to work and my route takes me through a forest of tall trees, along a river and through the meadows around Lowther Castle.  It’s a daily commute that constantly reminds me why nature recovery matters.”  

“It’s not just about the nature, but about the people.”

“I love fell running, climbing, scrambling and going for dips in lakes and rivers.”