Abbie de Castella
What employment sector do you work in?
NGO Sector
How long have you had a green job for nature?
2 years
Please describe the work that you do.
Team Wilder is based on the community organising way of working. This focuses on working with people, building relationships, upskilling, knowledge sharing, collaborating and inspiring people to take action for nature, in ways that are meaningful for them. Through the listening phase, education was highlighted as a key priority for Alderney. Currently this work is based on developing our educational offering and utilising young peoples voices to drive this project forward in a needs based way.
What do you most like about your job? Any dislikes?
Variety, the freedom to create my own initiatives, as well as support others with theirs. There is a focus on working with people in a holistic grass roots type of way, one that can help build confidence, resilience and skills in people, with a shared goal, of protecting the environment. The tasks I enjoy most are delivering Forest School, completing beach cleans, rock-pooling, organising public engagement events, listening to people and building relationships, and seeing young people thrive in the outdoors. It can be hard work, in Summer it’s long hours, some relationships can be difficult or challenging, but if you can succeed, then it’s all worthwhile.
What inspired you into this career?
Working in nature, with nature, for nature. Not only is this where I love to be, it’s also good for my health, physical and mental. I am passionate about sharing nature, the benefits, building confidence on people so that they can enjoy nature in the same way, making it accessible for people.
Have you faced any challenges in progressing your career so far?
I had a career change in my mid – late 30’s and it was the best thing i’ve ever done. Relocating was a big decision and required some adjustment. Confidence is the other side of fear.
What education/training did you have?
No university
A full career of working with businesses, which then shifted toward charities in mental health, wellbeing and the NHS
Mental Health First Aid Training – youth and adult
Mental Health First Aid Train the Trainer
Qualified trainer – AET level 5
Forest School Level 3
Nature therapy lead
Lowland Walking Leader – Mountain training
Wilder Beach Lead
What advice would you give to someone coming into the profession?
Volunteer, build your experience and confidence, play in the woods, take mindful walks, build your connection with nature. Find your authenticity. Take any short course you can to develop your learning, build your network of people, contacts, relationships. Try different things & expand your mind, this will build self esteem & help you find what you enjoy, your strengths and weaknesses. University isn’t for everyone and that’s okay, people skills, mentoring and coaching are important skills.
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Tags: International, Channel Islands, Environmental Educator, Community and volunteer engagement, Career changer, Non-degree route
Date profile submitted: 17/01/2025
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