We had a fantastic response to our call-out for new trustees earlier this year. We are delighted to have 6 new trustees standing for election at our AGM on 11th November 2026.
They have been busy learning more about the trust and the role over the last few months.
Two of these new trustees have been co-opted onto the trustee board early to help with oversight of our finances and compliance.
Caroline Schofield, trustee, has formally nominated all of the members below for election as trustee at our next AGM.
Anna Mouser
I’m passionate about how to support permaculture and connection to nature within urban settings. For me, this is especially for those who might not normally think to get involved. I’m delighted to join the Permaculture Trust to support its mission in the Brighton community and beyond.
Professionally, I work in leadership, system change and personal development, predominantly within the public and charitable sectors. My work explores how people and groups can take courageous action towards positive social and environmental change despite the constraints their organisations and our wider culture can create. This career is an evolution of my background in lobbying, advocacy and public policy. I regularly draw on permaculture principles in this work and am looking forward to learning much more through the courses the trust runs & through its wonderful work.
Douglas Kidd
I completed my Permaculture Design Certificate with Robyn Francis in Australia in 1995 and have maintained a deep interest ever since.
I have used permaculture principles in my work as an educator in the UK, Hong Kong, China and the Netherlands. I have developed curricula for primary and secondary students based on permaculture principles, as well as using them to inform my work as an outdoor educator.
I have also applied permaculture design to my own living spaces, from large gardens to small flats and even a Dutch barge, as well as school grounds and nature reserves.
Having lived in Brighton in the early 2000s, I returned in 2026, after years abroad, keen to continue my engagement with permaculture and to make a contribution to the wonderful work of Brighton Permaculture Trust.
Kerry Dowding
I’m Sussex born and raised, and a lover of all things permaculture. I’m happiest when I’m learning, growing things, and finding practical ways to live more sustainably.Professionally, I have over 15 years’ experience as an evaluator, researcher and learning partner in the non-profit sector. I care about creating inclusive, creative and engaging approaches to learning and reflection, making sure learning approaches fit the ethics and approaches of the organisations I work with. I am also an experienced commissioner, published academic writer and assessor for academic and public grant funding. I recently supported Macmillan Cancer Support through a national strategy review process.
Sabrina Carter
I am a sustainability practitioner, communicator and advocate for resilient regional food systems. With more than twenty years’ experience, working across community development, the circular economy and stakeholder engagement in the UK and South East Asia, I am passionate about creating practical alternatives to extractive economic models and strengthening local systems that support people, place and nature. I have a distinction-level MSc in Sustainable Development from the University of Sussex, where my research explored institutional discourse, agroecology and alternative approaches to land stewardship and social change.
Throughout my career, I have worked at the intersection of food, community and sustainability, securing funding, building partnerships and supporting organisations to deliver meaningful social and environmental impact.
I am a volunteer with a local community orchard, reflecting my belief that access to land, local food production and community ownership are essential foundations of a healthier future. Through my consultancy and my wider voluntary work, I champion the transformation of regional food systems, supporting initiatives that reconnect producers and communities, strengthen local economies and help build a more equitable and regenerative future.
Shiran Amunugama
I have always been passionate about supporting organisations that make a positive difference in their communities. Over the years, I have enjoyed working with
charities, community groups and initiatives that promote sustainability, education and opportunities for others.
Through building a business centred on sustainable products, I have gained valuable experience working with people and organisations both locally and
internationally. This has reinforced my belief that practical, collaborative solutions can create lasting benefits for both people and the environment.
I was drawn to Brighton Permaculture Trust because of its values-led approach and its commitment to bringing people together through education, community
projects and practical action. I believe meaningful change is achieved by sharing knowledge, working together and empowering communities.
As a trustee, I hope to contribute my experience, perspective and enthusiasm wherever they can be of value, while learning from the knowledge and experience of
others within the permaculture community. I look forward to supporting the Trust’s continued work and positive impact across Sussex.
Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, playing golf, travelling, dining out and cooking. I value quality time with those close to me and enjoy discovering new places, experiencing different cultures and sharing experiences with others.
Tony Sharp
I began my career in mental health services, leading groups at Stanmer Park in growing organic food. I worked in the charity sector and the NHS for 35 years, until retiring. My last job as Director of Planning and Development for an NHS Trust involved leading on planning, project management, bidding for funds, and service development.
I have been a Trustee with the Friends of St Ann’s Well Gardens, working to develop our local park as a natural environment with good engagement from the local community. This includes nature learning, planting, bids for development money and public events.
I have a deep commitment to improving Brighton and Hove as a city that is a great place to live. I love to see people thrive and come together for positive community activities.
In addition to my interest in sustainable community food, I enjoy seeing bands, hiking, cooking, and getting the most out of the fantastic opportunities that Brighton and Sussex have to offer.