FOUNDER AND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

Emmeline’s experiences in nature became a large part of her education, especially amidst a rather unconventional upbringing. But with an inquisitive mind, deeply rooted earthen connection & stubborn optimism she was able to achieve a first-class BSc (hons) in Applied Zoology, & a Research Master’s (MRes) in Marine Biology. In 2021 a reflective moment by the river directed Emmeline into the realm of documentary filmmaking, with which she began investigating the root of UK riverscape issues, environmentally and systemically, forming local filmmaking group - Root and River Creative. 

Her research not only led to the depths of a system that just isn’t working, but to the words she feels drive disconnect, from us and Mother Earth, Nature, treated as an 'object' under UK Environmental law. This led Emmeline to form the Voices of Water Foundation, beginning a mission for the voice, protection and restoration of the Helford Riverscape she loves and lives by.

OUR TRUSTEES - PLASTIC FREE PIRATE CAPTAIN

I’m Co-Founder and Chair of Clean Ocean Sailing (COS) an award-winning voluntary group based in Cornwall. We sail traditional boats and kayaks where COS paddles out to remote places to clean oceans and rivers, removing plastic waste which we sort, record, reuse and recycle. I also help run the Ocean Wellbeing Project, giving people from disadvantaged backgrounds a chance to join clean-up missions, connect with nature and find space for reflection and healing.

One minute I’m navigating, the next I’m fixing an engine or hauling plastic off a beach. My role blends activism, seamanship and a touch of pirate spirit. Cleaning the oceans may be a task for more than one lifetime, but I believe in starting anyway with determination, a crew, and the wind at our backs.

OUR TRUSTEES - WOODLAND CREATOR

Walking through the woods with my grandad is one of my earliest memories. I’d run ahead, naming every tree we passed that’s where my lifelong love for nature began. I went on to become a qualified Arborist and have worked in this role for over 16 years. That knowledge, paired with a deep-rooted passion for trees, led me to found Plant One a CIC dedicated to putting woodlands back into the landscape and reconnecting people with trees.

I believe restoring nature must be a shared mission not something that happens behind closed gates. Living along the beautiful Helford River, where the trees meet the sea, continues to inspire me. My approach has always been about community, collaboration and connection working together to protect and enhance the woods, waters and wild spaces of this land.

OUR TRUSTEES - POLITICIAN, OCEAN & NATURE ADVOCATE

As Ex Mayor and Cllr at Falmouth Town council and having worked as an advocate for all things climate and nature both within academia, the public, private and VCSE sectors for over a decade, Kirstie brings both professional and community representation to her supporter role.

In her work at Cornwall Voluntary sector forum, she manages the Climate and Environment Alliance- a collection of Cornish VCSE organisations that work within this space, to use their collective power to support and affect change. The alliance has recently published The Green Footsteps Guide | Cornwall Voluntary Sector Forum 97 pages of support for VCSE orgs to become more sustainable. Kirstie remains committed to ensuring that the voice of the voluntary sector is central in shaping a greener, fairer future that protects wild spaces.