Patrons
Enhancing green spaces in London where all natural pollinators can thrive, and their habitats can be enjoyed by all.
David Domoney
David is a Chartered Horticulturalist and Broadcaster. He has been at the forefront of informing people on the importance of recognising the health and social impact of living in a technologically dependent world. He has been inspiring the public on the significance of balancing digital engagement and spending time immersed and engaged with nature. David is a garden and nature television presenter on shows including ITV’s ‘Love Your Garden’ (which is Britain’s most viewed TV Gardening show), the Sunday Morning show ‘Love Your Weekend, and serves as the resident garden presenter on ITV’s flagship show ‘This Morning’. He is a Fellow of the Warwickshire Colleges of Horticulture, a Fellow of the London Colleges of Horticulture at Capel Manor, and a Chartered Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Horticulture. He has won 36 RHS medals and 3 RHS ‘Best in Show’ trophies. Prince Edward personally selected David to receive his 2019 Award for Excellence in Horticulture.
A note from David:
“This inspiring campaign touches the very heart of nature. As humans, more and more of us are experiencing a disconnection with nature as we become more dependent on technology. The urbanisation of our villages, towns, and cities is having a devastating effect on some of the most important species on the planet, our pollinators. Harmonization of modern living infused with positive engagement with nature is vital for all species, humanity included. Habitats in the most inner-city areas for mankind and the pollinators is the only way forward. Creating safe homes for these valuable insects and mammals will enable them to thrive in urban spaces and provide corridors for them to travel and populate. For us, having the chance to sit on a bench outside, taking a moment to recover from the stresses and anxieties of business life by watching the butterflies in flight, listening to the buzz of bumble bees and songs of birds, can have invaluable benefits for resetting our balance, initiate fascination and refresh our minds.”
To see David’s work, you can follow him on social media or visit his website: www.daviddomoney.com
Twitter – @daviddomoney
Instagram – @daviddomoney
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TikTok – @daviddomoney
Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli
Michael co-founded Z/Yen in 1994, the City of London’s leading think-tank, to promote societal advance through better finance and technology after a career as a research scientist in aerospace & cartography then accountancy-firm partner and director of Ministry of Defence research. A qualified accountant, securities professional, computer specialist and management consultant, educated at Harvard University and Trinity College Dublin, Michael gained his PhD at London School of Economics where he was also a Visiting Professor. Michael’s clients include banks, exchanges, insurers, policy makers, governments, technology and scientific firms. In 2023–24, Michael served as the Lord Mayor of London, championing innovation, sustainability, and the global competitiveness of London’s financial sector with his ‘Connect To Prosper’ programme. Michael is Emeritus Professor & Trustee at Gresham College where he created the London Finance initiative asking “when would we know our financial system is working?”
Sir Tim Smit KBE
Sir Tim Smit KBE is a renowned entrepreneur and environmentalist best known for his pioneering work in sustainability and social enterprise. He initially pursued a career in archaeology and music, working as a platinum award winning composer and record producer before his interests shifted towards environmental conservation.
In the early 1990’s Tim gained recognition, with John Nelson, for the re-awakening and restoration of The Lost Gardens of Heligan, in Cornwall. The gardens, which had been neglected and overgrown for decades, were brought back to life under Tim’s leadership, becoming the star of an award-winning Book and television series and today is one of the most popular gardens in Europe.
Tim’s other significant contribution came when he co-founded the Eden Project, also in Cornwall, restoring a derelict clay mine to life which opened its doors to the public in 2000, as a groundbreaking environmental and educational centre featuring the world’s largest indoor rainforest housed within giant biomes. The project has since become a global symbol of sustainability and environmental education, attracting more than 23 million visitors since opening.
In recognition of his contributions to environmental conservation and education, Tim was appointed a Knight Commander of the Order of the British Empire (KBE) in 2012 and was the winner of the RSA Albert Medal for contributions to science education in 2003. He has also received numerous other honours and awards throughout his career, including honorary doctorates from several universities.
Beyond his work with The Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project, Tim is a passionate advocate for sustainability, community engagement, and innovative approaches to tackling global challenges. He continues to be actively involved in various projects and initiatives that aim to promote environmental stewardship and social responsibility.
Dame Fiona Woolf DBE DL
Dame Fiona Woolf spent many years as an energy lawyer with CMS Cameron McKenna before making history in public service.
In 2013/14, she served as the 686th Lord Mayor of London, becoming only the second woman to hold the role since 1189. During her tenure, she launched the 686 Plan, which encompassed:
- The Lord Mayor’s Appeal
- The Power of Diversity
- The Lord Mayor’s Charity Leadership Programme
- Tomorrow’s City
All these initiatives were united by her mayoral strapline: “The Energy to Transform Lives.”
Dame Fiona pioneered the Power of Diversity Programme and remains deeply committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in all its forms (see more). She is also passionate about advancing a more sustainable economy, inspired by her Tomorrow’s City programme.
In recognition of her contributions to the legal profession, diversity, and the City of London, she was awarded a DBE in the 2015 New Year Honours. She later became a Deputy Lieutenant for Greater London in April 2016, retired as an Alderman in June 2018, and stepped down from CMS Cameron McKenna in April 2019.