← Back to News & Blog

What's It Like to Volunteer with UK Youth 4 Nature?

By Francesca Read-Cutting

UK Youth for Nature is a network of 16-35 year olds from across the UK calling on the government to act on the nature crisis. We specialise in highly creative campaigns that celebrate nature and youth voices while calling for positive environmental action. Anyone in the UK between 16-35-years-old can join, you don’t need any experience to join our community. We have team members who work at the NHS, in cyber security, within policy-making, with refugees, as theatre set designers, full-time artists, students, flower farmers and communications professionals. No matter who you are and what your experiences are, you have something to bring to volunteering at UKY4N. 

One of our volunteers has described their experience of joining UKY4N over the last 6 months and why volunteering with us has been a game-changer for her CV:

Getting Started with UK Youth For Nature (UKY4N)

I discovered UKY4N through their LinkedIn page and reached out. Their leadership team got back to me immediately and arranged a call. We discussed what strengths I might be able to bring to the team, the level of commitment I was able to offer, and how UKY4N could support me. Once we were all happy, I was straight in.

First Steps

I joined the UKY4N Slack Channel and got involved in my first online team meeting. I was welcomed and introduced to the whole team straight away, despite them being knees-deep in a campaign at that time! I felt comfortable enough to share ideas right from that first call, which is the biggest testament I can give to the UKY4N group and the supportive atmosphere they have created.

6+ Months In

I forged a wide range of new skills for my CV; hosting live interviews with renowned figures in conservation, contributing to creative campaigns, dissecting UK environmental policy, and strategising engagement methods.

So Why Join UKY4N?

  • Learn about UK nature from diverse voices.
  • Access unique learning opportunities and diversify your CV.
  • Advocate for nature and be part of its protection.
  • Join a community of changemakers and build lasting friendships.

Volunteering with UKY4N is flexible as they understand that life gets busy. You can choose from various roles – from social media to event organising – to fit your schedule.

Volunteer Testimonials:

  • “In a society where young people often feel powerless to effect change, being a part of UK Youth 4 Nature has given me a profound sense of agency and empowerment. It is truly amazing to be surrounded by a community of other passionate young people who all want to protect and preserve our planet.” – Emily
  • “UKY4N has been a wonderful opportunity to meet other people who really care about the planet and want to do something to protect it – it restores my faith in humanity!” – Elise
  • “The best part about volunteering for UKY4N is the amazing community of people you get to meet. There’s something special about bonding over a love for the planet — I’ve met people that I want to campaign with, but also go for coffees with, have laughs with, and stay connected to in the future.” – Nell
  • “Community – that’s the first word that comes to mind when I think of UKY4N. It’s easy to lose hope when it comes to the nature crisis and at times it can feel lonely but joining this group of amazing people full of optimism, creativity, energy, support and joy keeps me going. Not only have I had brilliant opportunities and learnt so much but I have also made great friends. I feel so grateful to be part of this wonderful community with such a variety of skills all working for better and more nature everywhere that benefits everyone.” – Holly

If you’re interested in getting involved, email ukyouthfornature@gmail.com to let them know you’re interested. One of their Co-Directors will set up a quick Zoom chat with you to let you know about the kinds of opportunities they have available and welcome you into the team!

Latest Blog Posts