​Jan 2022 - Vanessa Angelo-Thomson
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Watch Maxine Nelmes’ interview with Vanessa below to hear about her life-long passion
​for sustainability and her work on the 'From the Ground Up' event.

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Mini Background - How long have you been living and working in the Cheltenham Connect area of South Cheltenham – are you a lifer or a relative newbie?

I moved to Cheltenham in December 2006 so just celebrating 15 years here!

What do you feel is special about our local community in this part of town?

I love the Bath Road; in this day and age it is unique and we are so lucky to have such a buzzy high street. This is why I moved here, as I wanted to be in a community where I could shop locally, walk to most places and participate in community activities.

Tell us about your project.

From The Ground Up is a one one-day Sustainable Festival, held at St Phillip’s & St James’ Church to inform and encourage Cheltenham residents to explore and engage more about how they can make a difference in their home, business/work, lifestyle and community.

What have been the biggest challenges and rewards?

As a community led organisation and a first timer at leading a group of people in organising an event it has been a rewarding learning curve so far! Being flexible to what is reality without losing sight of the vision for the Festival.

What keeps you going? What motivates you?

Really believing that communities have the power to make a difference, not only locally but globally. They are the “from the ground up” movement. And, I wanted to bring that passion into what I have believed in all my life which is environmental issues.

Dreams for the future.

A greener, more aware and sustainable environment within a community which will impact how we live in order to support a global shift to save the Earth

What do you most need in the way of resources and support to help you continue?

Publicise the event as much as possible.
Like, share and follow on Facebook- Visit us at https://www.facebook.com/ftgu.festival
​Come and visit and participate in the Festival Volunteers for the day