Keep your distance from the animals and don't feed or pet them - you may be fined.

Young woman with brown hair and a white coat taking a selfie with hills in the background.

Lily

It's 20:37 Overcast, 19°C

I’m Lily! I am a graduate of Animal Welfare who is in love with all things animals and nature. I live on the edge of the New Forest with my family; alongside my dog, cat, tortoise and pet pigs! 

  

Favourite thing about / place in the New Forest? 

The New Forest is abundantly beautiful, with unique landscapes, wildlife and intimate spots that feel just like home. My favourite place is where the forest meets the sea, particularly in a nice quiet spot away from the crowds. I love getting lost in the sparkly waves and watching the birds patter along the shore. Once or twice I’ve even managed to catch a glimpse of the visiting seal which never fails to warm my heart. I have a growing passion for photography, so you might see me following along quietly behind wildlife or chasing a pretty sunrise. 

  

What are your areas of interest and passion? 

I’m most interested in the human perception of animals and their place in the world, particularly focusing on how we can regain the connection between humans, animals and nature. I see myself in a career that empowers others to share this compassion, and I believe that taking notice of our underlying beliefs is the key. 

  

What skills do you have that could benefit the Youth Board? 

I have a passion for creative media including photography, art and design as well as writing. These may look like creating education materials, social media content, digital design or persuasive writing. Through these outlets I wish to contribute positively to the information we encounter daily, by sharing knowledge, motivation, and happy news on topics of animal and environmental issues; I feel that this positive, empathetic advocacy is a great way to raise compassion. 

  

What do you want to get from being a New Forest Youth Board member? What skills and knowledge would you like to develop? 

I am hopeful to gain a wider, more comprehensive outlook of nature protection in The New Forest. In doing so I hope to develop confidence in speaking with clarity, network with those in the industry, and gain experience in attending events as a group representative. Most of all, I am excited to be a part of a young community who cares for nature and has a will to protect it; these are the kind of people who inspire me.