The Conservation Volunteers is proud to announce the appointment of three new female trustees to our Board, marking another step forward in our dedication to diverse and inclusive leadership.
Aligning with our new strategic vision of a Better Nature for All, we set out to ensure our governance better reflects the communities we serve—particularly our vibrant volunteer base. The result is the addition of three accomplished women whose expertise spans governance, data, project management, safeguarding, and who share a deep passion for connecting underrepresented groups with nature.
Meet Our New Trustees
Tanvi Desai
Tanvi joins TCV with a strong background in data-driven environmental work. After leading infrastructure and policy development for social and economic data in the UK and abroad, she shifted focus to nature-based solutions for urban wellbeing.
Following an MSc in Environment and Sustainability, Tanvi applied her data expertise at GiGL, managing London’s Open Spaces database. She later joined the Greater London Authority to coordinate the Mayor’s tree programme, collaborating with TCV on initiatives such as I Dig Trees, which distributed over 100,000 free trees to Londoners.
Tanvi Desai said: “I strongly support TCV’s core mission of linking communities to green spaces through volunteering as I believe that the connection between people and nature is critical to ensuring a healthy, resilient, fair, and liveable planet and society.
“I am excited to bring my extensive experience with sensitive data, strategic and project management, as well as my more recent knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing green space managers and owners, to help the Board progress TCV’s strategy.”
Shannon Russell
Shannon brings a strong blend of corporate and charitable sector experience to TCV. A qualified Project Manager in the Utility and Energy sector, she specialises in strategic planning, governance, and ESG initiatives. She currently serves on the Advisory Committee for BBC Children in Need Northern Ireland and previously held a Boardroom Apprentice role with The National Lottery Community Fund.
Passionate about empowering young people, Shannon volunteers as a mentor, using nature and community connections to support those facing challenges.
Shannon Russell said: “I’m honoured to be joining TCV’s Board. What excites me most is bringing a combination of my experience in governance and funding, coupled with grassroots insight from working directly with disadvantaged young people. I understand both the boardroom challenges of navigating complex decisions with limited resources, and the community-level reality of how environmental connection transforms lives.
“TCV’s mission of ‘connecting people together to protect and restore nature, delivering lasting benefits for both’ aligns perfectly with my belief that sustainable change happens when we connect people to their environment and each other. I’m eager to support TCV in continuing this vital work across even more communities.”
Andrea Lambert
Andrea currently works in the NHS as a Safeguarding Nurse. She has been nursing for nearly 40 years, focusing on working with children and families with complex health needs.
The last 10 years of her career have been spent as a clinical leader in the children’s hospice sector. Here she developed an understanding and passion for the impact and value that volunteers bring to projects and organisations. Her work has always been focused on people, which will continue in her role as Trustee.
Andrea Lambert said: “After 10 years in the charity sector, I understand the value and power of volunteering for both the organisation and the volunteers. How TCV combines conservation, and the wellbeing of people embraces things that are important to me. I am committed to supporting and empowering people from all walks of life, creating compassionate communities and reducing social isolation.
“I hope to bring enthusiasm and positivity as my personal assets and the skills that I have in leadership, and safeguarding knowledge and experience.”
Jon Towler, TCV Chair said: “The Board is incredibly pleased that we have appointed three new trustees who bring a wide range of expertise to our charity.
“Tanvi, Shannon and Andrea have grassroots experience in differing areas that will be hugely valuable to our work. This combined with their expertise in governance and sustainability offers a dynamic perspective on how environmental conservation and volunteering can foster healthier, more inclusive communities—aligning perfectly with TCV’s mission.”
Rebecca Kennelly MBE, TCV Chief Executive said: “These appointments align with TCV’s newly launched 2025-2030 strategy, which is rooted in inclusion and champions the belief that everyone deserves access to nature. We’re committed to creating opportunities for everyone to connect with nature—especially for those who face barriers—and making our activities relevant and accessible to all communities.
“Together, with our new trustees, and our volunteers, who are at the heart of everything we do, we’re taking meaningful steps toward a more inclusive future for people and the planet.”
Keep up to date with the latest news and activities from The Conservation Volunteers by following us on Facebook, LinkedIn, Instagram and YouTube. TCV is active across most of the UK, click here to find your nearest office or activity. You can also sign up to receive TCV’s Greenzine e-newsletter for more ways to get involved.