Emma van der Marel grew up in the Netherlands and Switzerland. She studied Biology at the Universities of Maastricht, Exeter (Penryn), and Stockholm, with a postgraduate focus on ecology and animal behaviour. She has previously volunteered for different European nature conservation programs and is passionate about pursuing a career in wildlife conservation. As of March 2026, she is volunteering with SPBT as part of the European Solidarity Corps (ESC) program. She is eager to learn about NGO conservation work and develop skills in bird monitoring, data management, and supporting awareness activities.