Young Conservationist of the Year awarded to Dunfermline local

The Royal Zoological Society of Scotland (RZSS) has announced the winner of its Young Conservationist of the Year Award 2024. Lucy Chalmers, of Dunfermline, won the wildlife conservation charity’s award in recognition to her years of dedication to wildlife conservation and sharing of knowledge. 

Lucy, who attended Woodmill High School in Dunfermline, began her journey with RSZZ in 2017 when she participated in the charity’s Science Summer School programme, igniting a lifelong passion for zoos and conservation.

Her commitment to the natural world led her to pursue and achieve a BSc in Animal Biology from Stirling University. In 2023, Lucy returned to RZSS as a Discovery Ambassador, sharing her knowledge and enthusiasm with visitors of Edinburgh Zoo.

In 2024, Lucy furthered her academic pursuits by completing an MRes in Ecology and Environmental Biology while simultaneously serving as a Discovery Associate at the Zoo. This impressive balancing act highlights her unwavering commitment to both education and conservation.

Lexi Hemshaw, RZSS volunteer community officer, said, “The Young Conservationist of the Year Award is just one of the ways for us to acknowledge and celebrate the importance of young people and their contribution to the work of RZSS and our vital conservation efforts.” 

Ms Hemshaw continued “Lucy’s commitment to wildlife conservation and science is inspiring, and her ability to deepen visitors’ connections to nature make her a valuable asset to the RZSS team and a worthy recipient of the Young Conservationist of the Year Award 2024.”

Beyond her professional achievements, Lucy is an avid outdoors enthusiast, spending her free time hiking and kayaking across Scotland. A particular highlight was spotting dolphins in the Firth of Forth, a testament to her keen eye for wildlife.

Now, as a Seasonal Ranger, Lucy can be found throughout Edinburgh Zoo, engaging with visitors and sharing her extensive knowledge and enthusiasm.