Victoria Holden

Victoria’s upbringing in Limeside, Oldham, was marked by poverty and scarcity, shaping her into a staunch advocate for social, environmental, and economic equity. Her 25-year journey in combating poverty and fostering urban regeneration across Greater Manchester was fueled by a profound commitment to these causes. Despite her urban roots, Victoria’s childhood was enriched by a strong bond with nature, thanks to the proximity of farms and a national country park—sanctuaries of greenery before the construction of the M60 motorway and residential developments. Her family’s avid gardening and allotment cultivation in Oldham further deepened this connection. Drawing from these formative experiences, Victoria has seamlessly woven her passion for the natural world with community revitalisation efforts. She addresses critical challenges such as improving access to quality green spaces, promoting food sustainability, integrating diverse communities into the environmental and horticultural sectors, and fostering an inclusive economy. Her work leverages land and water resources to pave the way for sustainable careers in the green industry, demonstrating a harmonious blend of nature’s nurture and community empowerment.