Forging a Career in the Green Sector
Breaking into the green sector can sometimes feel complex, competitive, and a little daunting, but we believe the right opportunities can make all the difference.
At Trees for Cities, people are at the heart of everything we do. By investing in inclusive opportunities and nurturing early-career talent, we’re building a network of passionate individuals ready to champion tree equity and create greener, healthier cities for all.
We spoke to three of our Trees for Cities interns to learn more about their experiences and aspirations as they shape their futures in the green sector.
Passion Meets Purpose: Lizzie’s Story
Lizzie, currently embarking on an MSc in ‘Climate Change: Environment, Science, and Policy’ at King’s College London, completed her internship at Trees for Cities as an Equity and Access in Nature Researcher.
Having always held a great adoration of the outdoors, her journey into environmental work was driven by a deep love of nature and a growing awareness of the fact that not everyone has equal access to trees and green spaces, or the opportunities and connections to forge a career in the sector.
Lizzie reflected that initially, entering the green sector felt competitive, like an intertwined network, particularly with no immediate contacts.
“Additional barriers I encountered were predominantly financial as the experience required to unlock certain job opportunities was expensive, and therefore not accessible.”
Securing her internship at Trees for Cities has allowed Lizzie to develop valuable experience and work alongside a like-minded team who share her drive to champion tree equity and access to nature. "I have been dazzled by my colleagues’ knowledge, passion, and varying perspectives. It is the most remarkable team."
Lizzie credits her internship to helping refine her career direction, shifting her focus towards social science and communication: “This is a space I hope to work within in the future, as I feel it is an essential component for tackling the climate crisis.”
Lizzie's advice to others is clear:
“Carry with you as much confidence as you can… network, volunteer, and make yourself known, all whilst not forgetting your love for the outdoors.”
Click here to connect with Lizzie on LinkedIn.
Finding Direction in a Broad Sector: Toni's Story
Toni, currently studying an MSc in Environment, Politics and Development at King’s College London, kickstarted her Trees for Cities internship as a Climate Resilience Researcher.
“I’ve always been interested in nature,” she explained, reflecting on her upbringing in Austria, where outdoor life and sustainable living strongly shaped her perspectives.
Throughout her studies Toni explored a wide range of topics within the green sector but wasn’t sure how to narrow this down and translate her interests into a career. “One of the challenges I faced was figuring out where I fit within such a broad field."
There are so many different pathways, and it can feel overwhelming at times to know where to start.
Her Trees for Cities internship helped bring clarity, giving real insight into day-to-day working life, as well as allowing her to build connections and deepen her commitment to pursuing a green career: “It’s a great way to gain a clearer sense of direction and confidence moving forward.”
Her work focused on heat distribution, shade and cool zones in London, with analysis revealing how relatively small changes in urban environments can make a meaningful difference, particularly in improving climate resilience.
Reflecting on the value of her Trees for Cities internship, Toni shared: “The experience has strengthened my interest in climate resilience and sustainable urban development, and I’m excited to continue building a career in this field!”
Click here to connect with Toni on LinkedIn.
Discovering New Interests: Lucas’ Story
For Lucas, a Trees for Cities Marketing and Communications Intern based in the northeast of England, the journey into the green sector came somewhat unexpectedly.
Before joining Trees for Cities, Lucas had worked in a variety of roles while searching for the right path. Through a youth employment programme, he secured his internship — an opportunity that changed his perspective entirely.
“At first, I didn’t have much of an interest in nature and the environment,” he admits.
I can confidently now say that through working at Trees for Cities I care a lot more about [nature], and I appreciate it more too.
From creating marketing collateral to supporting events as part of Trees for Cities’ flagship Tree Equity for Hartlepool project, and even getting stuck in with some tree planting, Lucas quickly discovered the diversity of work within the organisation. “I thought I might just be designing posters and flyers, but in fact it was so much more than that.”
More importantly, the experience helped him grow personally: “I’ve come to realise that when I care and enjoy something that I’m doing, I am able to put my full effort into it.”
Looking ahead, Lucas hopes to build a career in graphic or website design, inspired by his Marketing and Communications internship.
His advice:
Be open minded and ready to do things you might not expect to be doing.
Click here to connect with Lucas on LinkedIn.
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