During her time in Montserrat, Beth was hosted by the Montserrat National Trust (MNT), an organization dedicated to conserving both the island’s environment and cultural heritage. In addition to MNT, Beth engaged with key personnel from both the Ministry of Education and the Ministry of Environment to discuss existing initiatives and explore future possibilities. One key highlight was the launch of a school twinning program between Ballakermeen High School in the Isle of Man and Montserrat Secondary School. This collaboration began with a video call where students from both schools shared insights into their local wildlife. The partnership will now focus on the pupils in both schools working towards the achievement of United Nations YUNGA Biodiversity Challenge Awards, allowing students to earn an internationally recognized badge for their participation.
Montserrat Secondary School students on a video call with Ballakermeen High School.
Beth also delivered educational sessions at three primary schools and Montserrat Community College, emphasizing the importance of integrating environmental education into the curriculum. She took the opportunity to introduce students to the diverse wildlife found across the UKOTs and Crown Dependencies, helping to foster a deeper connection to the natural world.
MNT runs several programs for young people, including Monty’s Messengers (for 4–12-year-olds) and Monty’s Ambassadors (for 13–25-year-olds). Beth had the privilege of working with both groups, taking part in a variety of activities, such as making teabags from medicinal plants, recording a radio segment with the young people, and assisting the Monty’s Ambassadors Executives in planning their future initiatives.
Beth also had the honour of speaking at two important MNT events. First, as a panellist at the "A Call to Action: Youth and the Future of Conservation of Montserrat’s Environment and Cultural Heritage" discussion, where she shared the stage with local conservation experts. Later, she was the keynote speaker at the Higher Education Evening, inspiring local students to consider pursuing careers in environmental fields.
Beth also made two appearances on Montserrat radio to inform the Montserratian residents about her work with MNT and UKOTCF.
Throughout her visit, Beth emphasized the value of two-way knowledge exchange, and the experience has helped build stronger connections between the Isle of Man, Montserrat and other UKOTs and Crown Dependencies. As MWT looks to expand collaborative environmental education efforts in the future, Beth’s trip has provided invaluable insights and opportunities for growth.