Ambassadors

& Advisors

Inspiring Voices for a Better World.

Our Ambassadors are passionate individuals who use their platforms, talents and energy to amplify our mission - to protect wildlife, empower young people, and build a more compassionate world. Each one brings a unique voice to our movement, helping us reach new audiences and inspiring action across generations.

Whether they are speaking out for animals, using their creativity for good, or championing youth and conservation, our ambassadors embody the spirit of Roots & Shoots and Dr Jane Goodall’s message of hope. We are proud to have them as part of the JGI UK family.

Our Ambassadors

An elderly man with a white beard and mustache, looking to his right with a serious expression, wearing a dark shirt.

  • ACTOR, ANIMAL ADVOCATE, AND LONG-TIME FRIEND OF JGI

    Peter Egan is one of the UK’s most beloved actors and a tireless campaigner for animal welfare. A passionate vegan and lifelong supporter of animal rights, Peter uses his voice and platform to speak out against cruelty and champion kindness.

    He has supported the Jane Goodall Institute UK for many years, appearing at events, narrating films, and encouraging others to take action for animals and the environment. His compassion, humility and deep commitment make him a true ambassador for change.

A young man with dark hair and a cream-colored sweater sitting outdoors next to a wooden fence, surrounded by three lambs, one of which is nuzzling his face.

  • CONTENT CREATOR. ANIMAL RESCUER, AND ADVOCATE FOR KINDNESS

    With millions of followers online, Kyle Thomas is one of the UK’s most influential young creators, but his platform is built on more than entertainment. A devoted animal lover, Kyle uses his social channels to promote rescue, welfare and the importance of treating all living beings with compassion.

    His infectious positivity and real-life dedication to animals, from reptiles to rescue dogs, makes him a powerful ambassador for Roots & Shoots. Kyle reminds young people that they don’t have to wait to make a difference. They can start today.

A confident man in a black suit and white shirt poses with arms crossed, against a black background.

  • CONSERVATIONIST, ENTREPRENEUR, AND PLANET PROTECTOR

    Akash Mehta is a global changemaker, bridging the worlds of conservation, philanthropy and ethical business. As the founder of Fable Fund, Akash supports community-driven efforts to protect endangered species and foster human-wildlife coexistence.

    With a focus on kindness - to people, animals and the planet - Akash is deeply committed to youth empowerment, education and sustainable living. He speaks regularly about climate, conservation and activism, and brings a new generation into the Roots & Shoots movement with his authentic, accessible voice.

Honorary Advisors

  • Sir Ian Blatchford is Director and Chief Executive of the Science Museum Group, which oversees the Science Museum in London and several major national science and industry museums across the UK. He has led the Group since 2010, shaping its vision for public engagement with science, innovation and culture, and expanding its reach through exhibitions, education programmes and strategic partnerships. Previously he was Deputy Director of the Victoria and Albert Museum, and earlier in his career held leadership roles across cultural institutions and the arts sector. Sir Ian was knighted in 2019 for services to cultural education and brings deep experience in museum leadership, public engagement and science communication to his advisory role.

  • Emily Eavis is the Co-Organiser of Glastonbury Festival and a leading figure in the UK live music industry. Emily’s work plays a central role in shaping Glastonbury’s creative direction, championing emerging artists, and driving the event’s ongoing evolution. With a deep commitment to music, culture, and community, Emily is recognised for her work at the forefront of global festival programming solidifying the festival's status as always staying true to original spirit and values.

  • Mr Brainwash (born Thierry Guetta) is a contemporary artist known for his vibrant fusion of street art and pop art. He rose to international prominence through the 2010 Oscar-nominated documentary Exit Through the Gift Shop, which chronicled his unconventional emergence into the art world under the Mr Brainwash moniker. His work repurposes iconic imagery from popular culture and history into bold, joyful compositions that have been exhibited globally and commissioned by major cultural figures. Mr Brainwash’s creative vision continues to spark conversations about art, culture and accessibility in contemporary visual expression.

  • Kate is the Regional Manager for Europe and Western Asia at the National Geographic Society. She joined in 2025 to support the recruitment of Explorers and grantees in the region, as well as helping to build community through facilitating events and training programmes, and supporting outreach communications to promote Explorers' work. She joined National Geographic from the Whitley Fund for Nature, where she led the communications and engagement strategy, and previously worked as Education Editor at National Geographic Kids UK and Sub Editor at Discovery Education, bringing together passions for science communication, educational media and supporting young people with engaging positively with the world around.

  • Gareth Banner is the Group Managing Director of The Ned, the members’ club and hotel housed in London’s former Midland Bank building. With extensive experience in hospitality and lifestyle brands, he oversees The Ned’s operations, culture, and strategic growth, helping to establish it as one of the UK’s most distinctive destinations for business, dining, and creative communities.

  • Jack Constantine is Chief Digital Officer at Lush, the global handmade cosmetics brand recognised for its ethical values and activism. As part of the founding family behind Lush he has helped shape the brand’s digital strategy and customer experience, driving innovation while staying true to its founding principles.  Jack brings deep expertise in purpose-led business, modern retail, and using brand platforms to support positive social change. 

  • Sam Glynne is the European lead for UTA’s Entertainment & Culture Marketing division, creating entertainment opportunities for brands across the region. Based in London, she has led global branded entertainment and partnership strategy for major productions including Idols, Got Talent and The X Factor, and previously held senior roles at Fremantle, All3Media and Publicis Entertainment. A recognised industry leader, Sam has judged Cannes Lions, speaks regularly at key industry events, and is co-author of The Art of Branded Entertainment and Marketing the Arts: Breaking Boundaries.

  • Deborah Armstrong is Senior Vice President, Disney Advertising EMEA and Country Manager for The Walt Disney Company UK & Ireland. In her role, she leads advertising sales, brand partnerships, and media network strategy across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, and oversees Disney’s business operations in the UK and Ireland. Deborah joined Disney following the company’s acquisition of 21st Century Fox, bringing more than two decades of leadership experience across global media and advertising. Her work spans strategic growth, partnership innovation, and strengthening Disney’s presence across multiple platforms and audiences.

  • Vanessa Xuereb is Chief Membership Officer at Soho House Group and one of the most influential figures in global hospitality. A founding member of the original team recruited by CEO and Founder Nick Jones over 24 years ago, she has played a pivotal role in shaping the Soho House experience from the very beginning. As the ultimate host, Vanessa brings the brand’s vision to life, leading front of house, curating key events, and ensuring members and guests remain at the heart of everything. She oversees Soho House’s diverse global membership across more than 30 Houses worldwide.

  • Jo Elvin is an award-winning journalist, editor, and broadcaster with extensive experience across fashion, culture, and lifestyle media. She has held senior editorial roles at leading publications and is known for her sharp, authoritative voice and ability to shape conversations around modern culture. Jo brings deep industry insight and a strong track record of storytelling, interviewing, and brand-led content to her work across print, digital, and live platforms.

  • Maria Aldous is a Managing Director at Options Group Executive Search and a member of the firm’s London Management Committee. She leads the EMEA Electronic Markets team and is part of the Global Electronic Trading & Digital Practice, with extensive experience in financial markets recruitment and executive assessment. Prior to joining Options Group, Maria co-founded MCL Search, a specialist electronic trading and financial technology firm acquired by Options Group in 2017. A founding member of the Options Group Diverse Committee, she is committed to advancing equity and inclusion across the industry. Maria is also an angel investor in women’s health platform The Well HQ and in Long Lane, a wellness-focused hotel and members’ club opening in 2026, and serves as President of Catalyst Club, a social impact network supporting the charity Operation Water.

  • Born in London, Rachel is a Director at Soho House with nearly two decades of experience in the hospitality and workspace industry. Beginning her career in restaurants, they developed a deep understanding of operations, guest experience, and team leadership, which has shaped their progression into senior leadership. With a passion for building vibrant, people-focused environments, Rachel brings a practical, hands-on approach to her role, grounded in years of frontline experience. Outside of work, she is passionate about sports, and the impact access to grassroots clubs can have on young people and communities.

  • Meg Mathews is an English columnist, activist, and businesswoman known for her longstanding advocacy on animal welfare and women’s issues. She has used her public platform to speak out against animal testing and support campaigns for ethical treatment of animals, including recent involvement with organisations and protests aimed at ending cruel practices such as beaglebreeding for laboratory use. Her work reflects a commitment to compassion and ethical responsibility alongside her broader cultural influence.

  • Harriet Vocking is the Founder and CEO of For.Tomorrow, a strategic communications consultancy working across sustainability, reputation and greenwash prevention. With over 20 years’ experience, including senior leadership roles at Eco-Age, Harriet advises organisations and public figures on navigating sustainability with clarity, credibility and commercial insight. Her work focuses on aligning purpose with practice, shaping responsible narratives and building trusted relationships across business, media and culture.

  • Amy Mei Yin Lam Poon is an international property investor with extensive experience in global real estate and strategic acquisitions for overseas investors. Originally from Hong Kong and now based in London, she is known for her passion for architecture, design and her strong connections with leading global brands. Amy is also actively involved in philanthropy, supporting organisations including the Elton John AIDS Foundation, amfAR, Save the Children and the Eva Longoria Foundation. She serves as President in the UK and Hong Kong of the Jubilee Sailing Trust and is an Ambassador for Centrepoint, the charity supported by Prince William that works to end youth homelessness.

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