Dr Anna Dimitropoulou has 10 years of experience in environmental law and conservation policy. She studied law at the University of Athens in Greece, followed by an LLM in Environmental Law at Queen Mary University of London and a PhD at the University of York. Her doctoral research explored the ability of nature conservation law and policy in England to support adaptive decision-making in response to evolving ecological conditions and competing interests. Anna also works at the Environment Agency.
What it's like to be a trustee?
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Anna Dimitropoulou had never been a trustee when she joined the Trust. Here she tells more about the skills she's gained, the support she's received, and the rewarding experience of contributing alongside a full-time job. An inspiring glimpse into this important role.
Anna Dimitropoulou had never been a trustee when she joined the Trust. Here she tells more about the skills she's gained, the support she's received, and the rewarding experience of contributing alongside a full-time job. An inspiring glimpse into this important role.
Growing up in Athens - a city of four million people - nature wasn’t something I had on my doorstep. But I always loved it. When I moved to Yorkshire 15 years ago to study, I immediately fell in love with the nature, the diverse landscapes, the wildlife. Being able to now give something back to this region as a trustee with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust feels really special.
Becoming a trustee has been such a rewarding experience, particularly as it’s my first time in a role like this. From the beginning, I felt welcomed into a passionate and supportive community, all working towards protecting and restoring nature in Yorkshire. The Trust is at the forefront of nature recovery in Yorkshire and also working on some exciting, pioneering and internationally important work, grounded in evidence and the science.
Not long after joining the board, I was invited to be part of the Finance and Risk Committee. I’ll admit, at first that felt a little daunting, but I’ve had brilliant support from fellow trustees and staff, which has made all the difference. I’ve come to really enjoy it. As much as nature is at the heart of what we do, finance plays a crucial role in making it all possible - it’s what keeps everything moving.
Like many people, I balance being a trustee alongside a full-time job. It does take commitment, but it’s absolutely manageable and incredibly worthwhile. It’s about finding ways to contribute that fit around your life while being part of something bigger.
I bring my experience in environmental policy and water quality, along with experience of working with farmers and other partners to deliver environmental improvements on the ground. At the same time, the trustee role has enabled me to develop new skills in governance, strategic leadership and risk management, while broadening my perspective and understanding of the challenges and opportunities that conservation charities face.
One of my favourite moments so far was celebrating the 70th birthday of Moorlands Woodland nature reserve. There was such a strong sense of pride and community; and, I have to say, one of the most impressive cakes I’ve ever seen!
It genuinely feels like being part of a Yorkshire family - one that cares deeply about nature, wildlife, and the communities around us. Being able to play a small part in something that has such a positive impact across the region is something I feel very grateful for.