From Hedgehog Houses to Conservation Career: How Volunteering Changed Everything

Finding my feet (and paws) in conservation

When I first signed up to volunteer as Project Coordinator with the Hedgehog Friendly Campus project at the University of Chester, I didn’t realise how much that one decision would shape my future career.

I was an undergraduate zoology student looking to get stuck into something practical at the time. Our first surveys showed no sign of hedgehogs on campus over two years of wildlife camera data, and not a single sighting. Still, we believed we could turn things around.

We built hedgehog houses, installed feeding stations, and got students across the university involved. That first year, we saw three adult hedgehogs move in, including Spot, the first hedgehog we ever recorded on campus. Spot later became the first hedgehog to have hoglets on site. Watching wildlife return because of our efforts was one of the most rewarding moments of my life. This showed that what may seem like small actions at the time, when added together, had a large and powerful impact on the wildlife around us.

What started as a small group of seven students became a team of over 170 volunteers, and our work earned us three national awards. It has been more than just a campus project, it was the launchpad for my career.

Building a foundation beyond the classroom

Volunteering gave me far more than practical experience. It gave me confidence, leadership opportunities, and a sense of belonging in a sector I’ve wanted to be a part of from such a young age, but didn’t know how to step into it.

Through hedgehog conservation, I discovered a passion for community engagement and youth voice. That led to other opportunities: delivering educational workshops in schools, representing young people at conferences, and eventually joining the Chester Zoo Youth Board.

As part of the Chester Zoo Youth Board, I’ve had the opportunity to contribute to national conservation conversations and work alongside an inspiring team of young people to represent the youth voice within the organisation. Together, we’ve supported the zoo in ensuring that youth perspectives are included in the development of new initiatives and projects.

One of our most exciting recent pieces of work has been the creation of the Conservation Changemakers’ Toolkit, a resource designed by young people, for young people. Developed in collaboration with other young changemakers, the toolkit breaks down the journey of becoming a changemaker into manageable steps. It’s designed to support anyone looking to begin or continue their own path in conservation, whether as an individual or part of a wider movement.

This incredible opportunity came about thanks to the confidence I found through my early volunteering experiences. Taking those first steps into conservation gave me the courage to apply for the Youth Board and helped me grow into a role where I now help empower others to do the same. It’s been a major stepping stone in my career and something I’m incredibly proud to be part of.

Recognition, but always a team effort

In 2024, I was incredibly honoured (and a little bit shocked!) to receive two awards that recognised the work I’ve been involved in: I was named a Mammal Champion by the Mammal Society and awarded Conservationist of the Year – Fauna at the People of Nature Awards.

While I’m so grateful for the recognition, I truly see these as shared achievements. These awards, though an individual honour, reflect the collective effort of everyone involved in the work, from volunteers to community partners. The impact we’ve had, whether through hedgehog conservation, youth engagement, or community outreach, has only been possible because of the amazing people I’ve worked alongside. From fellow student volunteers and youth board members to the wider conservation community, every step forward has been a team effort.

These awards have helped boost my confidence, opened doors, and reminded me that what we do, no matter how small it might seem at first, matters. They’ve been milestones in my journey, but they also fuel my drive to keep learning, sharing, and supporting others in finding their place in nature, too.

What I’ve learned (and what I’d pass on)

Volunteering has been a cornerstone of my conservation journey. It has enabled me to grow into leadership roles, connect with inspiring individuals, and build a future in a field I am truly passionate about. Above all, it has taught me that passion, persistence, and putting yourself forward, whether for a litter pick or a position on a youth board really do make a difference.

I also know that it’s easy to want to take on every opportunity that comes your way when you’re volunteering. However, through my experiences, I’ve learned that volunteering isn’t just about doing everything; it’s about discovering where your true interests lie. For me, areas like native species conservation and youth engagement have become the ones I’m most passionate about. These are the areas that have shaped my career the most, because they align with my values and the change I want to see in the world.

To anyone thinking about a green career: say yes to the opportunities. You don’t have to have it all figured out. Sometimes the smallest actions, like building a hedgehog house, can lead you exactly where you need to be.

Posted: 27/06/2025