Iona joins us in the woodlands
Written by Tir Coed / Monday 26 April 2021
Tell us a little something about yourself...
I grew up near Llanidloes, on a farm with lots of volunteers and residents who came to learn new skills about sustainable living. We do work with livestock, growing food, planting and managing woodlands, green building, traditional crafts, wild flower meadows and much more.
I have done some travelling, studied psychology, lived in Greece for a while to work on refugee support and education projects and spent a little time in the Middle East doing the same kind of work. For the past few years I have been working in the forestry sector.
What are your hobbies?
I love learning. I love sleeping out under the stars, cooking, making things, going out into the hills for adventures, and spending time with lovely people.
What excites you most about your new role?
I am really excited to be part of spreading the joy of being out in the woods, learning about nature and finding out our own capabilities, in a creative and practical way.
What do you enjoy most about being outdoors?
I love how absorbing it is, there is always something fascinating to look at, to learn about, to enjoy.
What inspires you?
So many things! Most of all I’d say other people, their capabilities, creativity and skill, thoughtfulness, resilience.
What's your favourite season of the year and why?
Spring, I love to see the buds on the trees start to swell as tiny, cute little leaves come out. The blossom really brightens my mood and all the wild flowers popping up start getting me excited to learn more about identification and foraging. It feels like magic every time!
If you were a tree, what tree would you be and why?
Alder, I love how each tree is so individual and characterful, I love how the purple buds and catkins offer a splash of colour in the winter, I love that they can be found down beside the stream- a perfect place to unwind, relax and take a dip!
