Sheffield academic named one of '70 remarkable people' who have made a difference in the Peak District

As part of celebrations to mark the 70th anniversary of the Peak District - when it was given the title as the UK’s first National Park - the profiles of 70 people from the past, present and future are being shared throughout the year, in recognition of their contributions.

Maxwell Ayamba, who is an academic, environmental journalist and campaigner, was announced as one of the “70 remarkable people” who made the list.

He said: “I’m not bothered really. I just get on with my work. I’m just doing what I’m doing.”

Maxwell is the project co-ordinator at Sheffield Environmental Movement, a charity formed in 2016 to promote access to and participation in the natural environment for people from black and ethnic minority communities.

Within this role he has given talks to different community groups and taken them on trips to places such as the Great Yorkshire Show.

He also co-founded the walking group, 100 Black Men Walking for Health - now called Walk4Health to be more inclusive - initially as a means of promoting healthier lifestyles for middle-aged men.

Maxwell has published numerous academic papers, is regularly involved in media work and has served on a number of local and national boards and committees, advising on equality, diversity and inclusion.

He believes that for change to happen, “we need people with passion and commitment who are willing to change perceptions”.

For more information about Sheffield Environmental Movement, visit: http://www.semcharity.org.uk/