Championing Nature is a multi-year initiative delivered by Birmingham and Black Country Wildlife Trust (BBCWT), London Wildlife Trust, Northumberland Wildlife Trust and the Wildlife Trust for Lancashire, Manchester and North Merseyside. The programme funds bespoke projects that help children, young people and families in underserved communities access green spaces and develop stronger connections with nature. The multi-million pound programme is made possible by The All England Club and Emirates partnership.

The report highlights that 28,539 people have taken part in 865 sessions and activities delivered through the programme over the past year, with 73% of participants coming from underserved communities. The impact of participation has been substantial, with 93% of those engaged saying they felt inspired to take action for nature, and 91% reporting increased confidence that their individual actions can make a difference.

In recognition of these achievements, the All England Club welcomed young people and conservation leaders to Wimbledon for the “Championing Nature: Game. Set. Grow” anniversary event. Members of Birmingham & Black Country Wildlife Trust (BBCWT) staff were in attendance alongside young people from Birmingham, and they were all very pleased to meet naturalist, broadcaster and Championing Nature Ambassador Steve Backshall!

Taking place at the home of The Championships, the day brought together representatives from each participating Wildlife Trust; programme supporters the All England Club and Emirates; and programme participants from across the UK to celebrate the occasion.

The event was hosted by climate presenter Abbie Dewhurst and featured a keynote speech from Steve Backshall. Speaking about the importance of youth-driven environmental action, Backshall highlighted the role the programme is playing in inspiring the next generation.

Steve Backshall later said: “Spending time in nature can completely change the way young people see the world and their place within it. What’s been so inspiring about Championing Nature is seeing young people not only reconnect with the environment, but also become leaders and advocates within their own communities. The passion, confidence and commitment we have heard today gives me huge optimism for the future.”

Over the past year, Championing Nature has supported a range of local conservation projects across Birmingham organised by BBCWT, including the first ever Birmingham Fungi Festival!

A key focus of the “Championing Nature: Game. Set. Grow” event was amplifying the voices of young participants. Throughout the day, attendees shared personal stories of leadership, conservation and community action, reflecting on how the programme has influenced their confidence, ambitions and connection to the natural environment in their local areas.

Guests also heard from representatives from the All England Club and Emirates, who reflected on the programme’s first-year success and outlined ambitions for future growth. Discussions highlighted the importance of ensuring access to nature remains inclusive and accessible for all communities.

Ulrika Hogberg, Head of Community Strategy at The All England Lawn Tennis Club, said: “Championing Nature is about helping children, young people and families build a stronger connection with the natural world, no matter their background or where they live. Over the last year, we have seen first hand how time spent in nature, alongside mentoring and local support, can make a real difference to confidence, wellbeing and future goals. We are incredibly proud of what the partner trusts and young people involved have achieved so far, and we are excited to see the programme continue to grow over the coming years.”

Valerie Tan, Senior Vice President – Corporate Communications, CSR and Media Affairs at Emirates said: “Championing Nature is a powerful example of how we can work with partners like the All England Club and the Wildlife Trusts to go beyond sponsorship and create something with real purpose. It has been incredibly rewarding to see the programme come to life over the past year, from hands-on experiences to permanent new spaces like the natural play area at Woodberry Wetlands. We are proud to support a programme that is opening up access to nature and creating meaningful opportunities in communities across the UK.” 

The celebration also included a screening of the Championing Nature hero film available here and a behind-the-scenes tour of Wimbledon.

As Championing Nature enters its second year, the partnership aims to expand opportunities for young people to engage with conservation, outdoor education and environmental leadership across communities throughout the UK.