Oluwafemi Ajayi
After attending one of Nineyards’ Climate Awareness Training workshops, Oluwafemi Ajayi’s career path changed. What started as a single session became the spark that built his confidence, skills and a career in climate action.
How did you first get involved with Nineyards?
“I was studying for a Master’s in Sustainable Engineering Systems at Teesside University and I saw a notice for a climate change awareness training being run by MEC. It sounded like something that aligned with my studies – as well as being something I am very interested in – so I decided to attend. I think that meeting changed everything for me.
What did you take away from that training?
“One of the most powerful things I learned from the climate awareness training was that everyone has a role to play in climate change. Our lifestyles have a lot of impact on the planet and there is something everyone can do to bring about the positive change we need.
Tell us about your internship with Middlesbrough Council.
“I interned with the Environment & Sustainability team and was lucky enough to get involved with a variety of projects, including emissions related to commuting. This work eventually became part of the Council’s green strategy, so that was really satisfying. I couldn’t have done this without the support of Nineyards.
How did Climate Action Middlesbrough (CAM) support you?
“Being connected with – and learning from – my experience with CAM was a real game changer for me. I learned so much and developed a much deeper understanding of the impacts of climate change. All of this gave me the confidence to do a course in advanced carbon accounting.
How has this shaped your future?
“These experiences have given me the confidence, encouragement and determination to progress my career in the environmental and climate change sector. I’ll be forever grateful to Nineyards and Middlesbrough Council for their support.”
Elvina Thomas
Elvina Thomas joined Nineyards as part of her final practice placement while studying for her M.Sc. Dietetics at Teesside University. Originally from Kerala in India, she came into the placement with a strong interest in nutrition and a clear belief that “prevention is better than cure.”
Having already experienced mostly clinical settings during her studies, Elvina was keen to step into something different. Her public health placement offered the chance to explore how nutrition works beyond the clinic – supporting health at a community and population level.
Here, she shares what it was really like to step into the world of public health at Nineyards, what she learned along the way, and how the experience has shaped her thinking about her future career.
What was your initial experience of your internship at Nineyards?
“Coming into the placement, I didn’t have much understanding of how public health projects operate in practice. This experience gave me valuable insight into how services are delivered, the challenges involved and how they meet the needs of different communities.”
What’s something you’ve learned here that you couldn’t have learned in a classroom?
“I gained a deeper understanding of the practical side of public health work – particularly through the sessions delivered by Nineyards.
“I was able to observe how different groups can have very different attitudes and needs. This helped me adapt my approach, manage group dynamics and identify individual and group needs without making assumptions. I learned the importance of being flexible, observant and supportive.”
How has your time at MEC helped you grow?
“This placement supported my development in communication and adaptability. I learned how to tailor health promotion to different audiences – simplifying information, using visual resources and focusing on practical needs.
“I also developed skills in digital health promotion – including how to create engaging content for social media. All of this experience has given me the confidence to deliver impactful public health interventions.”
Has anything surprised you about Nineyards?
“Everything! The healthy cooking sessions, energy advice services, active travel, EcoShops – I didn’t realise all of this was part of Nineyards until I experienced it first-hand. The range of services offered – and how they all make an impact on the health and wellbeing of local communities – was wonderful to see.”
Has this experience changed how you think about your future?
“Yes. It really broadened my understanding of the challenges people face and the support systems available. I feel better equipped to recognise the wider factors that can affect a patient’s ability to follow dietary advice and to be more understanding and realistic in my approach. It’s definitely something I would consider exploring further in the future.”
What would you say to someone thinking about applying for an internship at Nineyards?
“There’s so much to benefit from experience and the learning you gain in a community setting is invaluable. It might feel unfamiliar or challenging at times, but being open to that uncertainty really helps you grow.”
What three words would you use to describe your internship at Nineyards?
“Wonderful, impactful and diverse.”
