Surrey Hills Symposium 2024
November 13, 2024 @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
Surrey Hills Symposium 2024 Nature is Calling – Will You Answer? A Vision for our Future Landscape Date: Wednesday 13 November Location: Rik Medlik Building, University of Surrey […]
Surrey Hills Symposium 2024
Nature is Calling – Will You Answer? A Vision for our Future Landscape
Date: Wednesday 13 November
Location: Rik Medlik Building, University of Surrey
Time: 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Nature is Calling – Will You Answer?
Join us at the University of Surrey for the return of the Surrey Hills Symposium, where we delve into the theme of ‘Nature Calling: A Vision for our Future Landscape’. This exciting event is your opportunity to be part of the conversation that shapes the future of our protected landscapes and countryside, including the next Surrey Hills National Landscape Management Plan.
Event Highlights
5:00 PM – Showcase of Ideas:
Step into our vibrant indoor showcase, where you’ll find engaging partners, interactive activities, and thought-provoking displays. Begin your journey of reimagining the future of our countryside, from sustainable farming practices to innovative art projects that connect us to nature.
Includes a showcase of Surrey Hills Arts projects!
- Writing from Radius with Royal Holloway University
- Nature Calling Movement in the Landscape exhibition
- Orchard Portraits visual arts showing
- Incubate residency with Rosie May
6:00 PM – Nature Calling:
Inside the lecture theatre, be captivated by four visionary speakers who will share their bold ideas for the future of our National Landscapes. Hear from passionate artists, influential policy-makers, and dynamic young farmers who are on the frontlines of change.
Don’t miss Professor Lorenzo Fioramonti, Founding Director of the Institute for Sustainability at the University of Surrey and former Italian Minister of Education! A global thought leader, Lorenzo has reshaped conversations on sustainable well-being and post-growth economies, with his books Wellbeing Economy and The World After GDP making waves worldwide. If you’re curious about the future of our planet, this is a talk you can’t miss!
JOHN WATKINS
A champion for sustainable landscapes, John Watkins brings decades of experience from his work in the Clwydian Range to his role as Head of Policy for Future Economy at the Welsh Government. John spearheaded the Economic Resilience and Reconstruction Mission, developing strategies for post-COVID recovery with a focus on well-being and environmental sustainability. Now the Director of the National Landscapes Association, his insights will change how you think about the future of landscapes.
TIM CRAWSHAW
Hear from Tim Crawshaw, Director of Planning and Placemaking at Surrey County Council. He is the former President of the Royal Town Planning Institute, Tim is passionate about nature-based solutions to tackle the climate, health, and biodiversity crises. As Chair of the Tees Valley Nature Partnership, he brings expertise on creating spaces where both people and nature thrive.
Undeniably one of a kind, MOBO Award-winning Still Shadey is a multifaceted entertainer and electric performer. Hailing from Croydon, a town known for producing some of the UK’s most distinct acts, Shadey has carved out his own legacy as one of its precious gems. With millions of streams across platforms, the British-born artist, of Nigerian descent, has built his reputation through transparent, thought-provoking lyricism and wholesome sounds that explore a wide array of topics.
Shadey is currently creating a unique and inspiring piece for our Surrey Hills Arts ‘Nature Calling’ project. Through this work, he will explore the essence of the Surrey Hills National Landscape and reflect on its personal significance to him.
MOLLY BIDDELL
We’re excited to welcome Molly, a leader in regenerative farming and rewilding. She works at the Hampton Estate, leads natural capital at the renowned Knepp Estate, and is actively involved with projects like Weald to Waves and the River Adur Landscape Recovery Project. Passionate about connecting people, nature, and farming, Molly’s talk will offer unique insights into the future of sustainable agriculture.
Engage in the Debate:
After the talks, the floor is yours! Join an interactive debate where our speakers – and you – will explore how we can collectively achieve a thriving and sustainable countryside. Your voice matters in this critical discussion about our environmental future.
Why Attend?
– Be Inspired: Get fresh perspectives from leaders who are shaping the future of our landscapes.
– Get Involved: Participate in meaningful discussions and leave with actionable ideas.
– Network: Connect with like-minded individuals who share your passion for nature and sustainability.
This is more than just a symposium – be part of the change and help envision a future where nature thrives for generations to come.
Joining instructions will be sent one week before the event, including transport details. Please look out for this as it will include a car park booking link which must be filled out if coming by car!
HAVE YOUR VOICE HEARD
Be part of the story – bring your ideas:
What is your vision of a thriving place for nature? During the Symposium participants are invited to co-create a large-scale image and text based collage with multidisciplinary artist Rosie May Jones. So bring along any imagery which represents your vision of a thriving natural habitat, whether it’s a magazine cutting, a printed image, or something you have drawn yourself, and take part in imagining a greener future.
Have your say in shaping the future of Surrey Hills! Take our quick survey to make an impact on wildlife reintroduction, green energy, and more—plus, enter to win a Surrey Hills festive hamper!
Bookings
Bookings are closed for this event.