Women's Upland Network Founder
Katrina Candy
Director, The Heather Trust
Background and Career to date
I have worked in the rural sector for about 20 years. Prior to that I worked in internal comms for a large High Street retailer and before that as a newspaper journalist.
I have been in my current role as Director of The Heather Trust for 2 years, having previously been Head of Communications (Scotland) for Bidwells property consultants and before that, Head of PR & Education with GWCT.
I have just published my fourth children’s book – Heather Munro’s Race Against the Flames – which is an adventure story woven with a more serious message about wildfire risk. The proceeds benefit the Trust and the Scottish Gamekeepers Association, and I just really enjoy creating characters and stories that children enjoy reading and which help promote responsible rural stewardship.
I have always loved being in rural landscapes and some of my fondest childhood memories are visiting my grandparents in rural Perthshire and having the freedom to explore the countryside with my three siblings – we would disappear for hours into the woods and fields – really happy (and sometimes mischievous!) times.
Please describe why the uplands are important to you?
Our uplands are iconic landscapes that are vital for the health and wellbeing of our whole nation. They have inspired literature, art, film and even fashion and are breathtakingly beautiful. Although wild, they are carefully managed and it is so important that this crucial role of sensitive stewardship is recognised and supported.
There’s nothing like the feeling of reaching the top of a Munro and taking in the spectacular view on a clear day and just appreciating what incredible places our uplands are.
What inspired you to become a founder of the Women’s Upland Network (WUN)?
WUN was the result of a conversation at a Heather Trust Board meeting between Emily Taylor, Viv Gill and I. We all recognised that in the room there were women who were intrinsically involved in our uplands – as a place to live, work or just enjoy - and we wanted to celebrate that contribution, share stories and support them.
What does the success of the WUN looks like for you?
I would love WUN to grow and become a hub for women from all walks of life across the UK who appreciate our uplands, while raising their profile and that of these special places. Our focus is on providing relevant resources, networking opportunities and support to encourage connection and confidence. We know living in an upland landscape can sometimes be isolating and we want to bring women together and celebrate their contributions.
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