Meet Our Founder Mia
What’s My Story?
My love for plants, animals, and the outdoors has been a constant thread throughout my life, with my happiest childhood memories woven from adventures in woodlands and gardens. This early connection sparked a deep desire within me to contribute positively to environmental and ecological issues, both personally and professionally. It’s this inherent passion for the natural world that continues to inspire the ethos and shape the offerings of Leading in Nature, driving my commitment to fostering a respectful and reciprocal relationship with the environment in all my work.
Since moving to the inspiring landscapes of North Wales, I’ve immersed myself in learning about the rich tapestry of mountain flora, local heritage, and captivating Celtic mythology. This deep dive into the region’s unique character not only enriches my own understanding but also adds a special dimension to the events I lead. I love to share these insights during our nature connection workshops. As well, I enjoy weaving the ancient stories and landscape lore of North Wales into our guided walks to bring a deeper sense of place and wonder to the experience. A collaborative CPD course centred on the local landscape, mythology and Welsh place names is in the works too!
It’s my heartfelt desire to be part of a strong, vibrant local community in Bethesda and more broadly, the Ogwen Valley (Dyffryn Ogwen) and North Wales (Gogledd Cymru). Learning Welsh (dysgu Cymraeg) is a great way to fully integrate into the social fabric here so I’m dedicated to learning Welsh.
For me, giving back is part and parcel of belonging to the local community. I volunteer for Cymdeithas Eryri Snowdonia Society, support Ogwen Valley Mountain Rescue Organisation by volunteering at base, and serve as Treasurer for Ynni Lleol Bethesda Energy Local, a cooperative that buys locally produced hydro power for local people.
My journey as a trainer has taken me through a diverse range of learning environments, from dynamic outdoor centres to postgraduate programmes at universities. This breadth of experience has honed my ability to connect with individuals from all walks of life and to craft learning experiences that truly resonate. Whether leading team development courses, managing training programs for charities, or lecturing in research methods, my focus has always been on creating engaging and accessible pathways to understanding.
My academic background and training as a social scientist have equipped me with a valuable skill set: the ability to absorb complex information and distill it into manageable, easy-to-digest chunks. This means I can break down intricate topics into clear, understandable learning points, making even challenging concepts accessible.
My experience as a former lecturer in research methods at the University of Westminster gives me with a valuable and perhaps less common skill: the ability to critically analyse the methodologies used by other researchers. This allows me to judge the credibility of the evidence base that informs my approach. Leading in Nature’s CPD thus are not only practical, but also built on a foundation of trustworthy and reliable information. This critical approach to evidence also underpins the content I share in blog posts.
Want to know more? Head over to LinkedIn to check out my professional profile.
Accreditations & qualifications
My dedication to providing you with the highest quality and most relevant experiences is reflected in my ongoing pursuit of knowledge and these key qualifications:
Qualified Member
The MTA is the nationally recognised membership organisation for climbing, walking and mountain leaders in the UK and Ireland. Mia is a Mountain Leader.
NatureWell Facilitator
Mia has completed an accredited training course that equips her to work with the general public and individuals/groups with specific health and social care needs.
Outdoor First Aid
Rescue Emergency Care courses have been the popular choice of UK Sports Governing Bodies for many years. Mia holds the REC 16-hour Outdoor First Aid certificate.
Polyvagal Theory: Principles & Practice
Mia completed this course, which combines the organising principles of Polyvagal Theory with practices that bring the theory into practical application.
PG Cert Higher Education
Mia gained this in-service teaching qualification while working as a lecturer in research methods at University of Westminster. The PG Cert is the first stage of the MA in Higher Education.
Nature of Trauma
To work effectively as a trauma-informed facilitator, Mia completed this CPD course with Natural Academy. The aim of the training is to support clients and communities in ways that encourage a sense of safety and empowerment.
Gold Eryri Ambassador
As an Eryri Ambassador, Mia is trained to share the area’s special qualities, celebrate the Welsh language, and encourage people to protect this beautiful but fragile environment.
Carbon Literate Citizen
As a Carbon Literate Citizens, Mia has the knowledge and skills to lower her carbon footprint and that of others, and the confidence to share their Carbon Literacy.
Member
Mia supports the British Mountaineering Council’s aim to protect the future of hill walking, climbing and mountaineering so people can embrace adventure.