Joanna Pengilley
Online Craft Coordinator
After studying three-dimensional design and specialising in ceramics at University College in Farnham, Surrey, I went on to be appointed as ‘Artist in Residence’ at Eastbourne College. I am passionate about inspiring a love of nature through art and craft, and I enjoyed my time working with the students on their GCSE and A level projects.
This experience led me into a world of youth work which would encompass leading outdoor activities, adventurous sports in Dorset and horticulture for a decade from 2006 to 2016 working for a variety of organisation’s such as 3D Education and Adventure, BTCV, The Youth Hostel Association, and Connexions in Bristol.
I was able to see firsthand the ‘levelling’ experience of the outdoors to young people and also the many benefits to mental health and wellbeing that adventure in the outdoors has on people's lives. I worked increasingly with young people really struggling in the education system and found that residential ‘wild weeks’ I organised were hugely beneficial to them as a ‘reset’ in their lives. I became an accredited assessor for NVQ qualifications.
More recently I have worked for Creative Youth Work managing a large 11-acre site with multiple tenant charities based on site, from Offices to Circus spaces. This gave me an excellent grounding in the business world and honed my skills as a networker and communicator. I was also instrumental in the founding of the ‘Green group’ where we analysed the carbon footprint of the large charity and buildings, and looked at ways of reducing our footprint.
I don’t ever remember a time in my life when I haven’t been interested in environmental issues and I try to be as conscientious as possible with my daily choices, actively choosing a positive path. As we have now entered a ‘climate crisis’ I feel more compelled than ever to align my life with making positive change for the planet. Studying Permaculture showed me a path that for me, created ‘hope’ for the future. I enjoy sharing this path with others.
I am passionate about permaculture and I have had my own large allotment for over a decade where I experiment with heritage vegetables, fruits and flowers which I grow organically using the ‘no dig’ permaculture approach.
I found The Rewild Project through the Land Workers Alliance and jumped at the chance to Coordinate the Online Craft Projects which would enable me to work with likeminded people, continue to learn and develop as a person.
I also enjoy restoring vintage furniture, walking, playing netball, sewing and traveling.
If you would like to have a chat or share and idea about our online courses with Jo, send an email to jo@therewildproject.com