Emma, 27 (She/Her)
Youth Forum Introductions: Emma Gifford
Having spent her childhood exploring the Shropshire countryside — photographing butterflies, feeding birds, and observing nature up close — Emma's love for wildlife began at an early age. Now a Wildlife Conservation and Ecology student at Harper Adams University, Emma is passionate about using her studies and forum involvement to build knowledge, experience, and opportunities for the next generation of conservationists.
I joined the Shropshire Wildlife Trust Youth Forum as I was keen to build connections with like-minded people and get involved in local conservation projects. Growing up in the Shropshire Countryside developed my interest in nature from a young age; from spending endless amounts of time observing and photographing butterflies to feeding and watching birds in the garden. I am also a 2nd Year Student at Harper Adams University studying BSc Wildlife Conservation and Ecology and thought this would provide an invaluable connection and knowledge base for future conservationists.
Youth Voice is important in the environmental sector because I believe we have the ability to make real and profound change, through inspiring others and coming up with innovative solutions to problems facing the environment and wildlife. I think it is also of benefit to society more broadly through building connections and resilience in our changing world. It should be a safe space for everyone to have their voices heard, being neurodivergent myself, I struggled for a long time understanding where my passions lay but have now found my path. We need as many people as we can to champion nature and fight for its survival!
I would say Papaver cambricum (Welsh poppy) is my favourite flora as we have many growing in the garden, they are the colour of sunshine and the bees absolutely love them. Dactylorhiza fuchsii (common spotted-orchid) is also a favourite of mine which I have seen at some National Trust gardens, so keep your eyes peeled if you visit! Hopefully we can create more favourable habitat for the rarer orchid species to thrive. In terms of fauna, I would say Carduelis carduelis (European goldfinch) as their markings are beautiful and we had two juveniles feeding in the garden this year. Sturnus Vulgaris (common starling) are also a favourite of mine because they have such a charismatic nature through their impressive mimicry.
The Youth Forum is open to anyone aged between 16 and 30 and live, work or study in Shropshire or Telford and Wrekin. If you are interested in being involved email youth@shropshirewildlifetrust.org.uk and we will be in touch with more information.