About Valerie

• She is considered a pioneer in modern aromatherapy practice, particularly in bringing it to a wider public audience
• Her work has contributed to the integration of aromatherapy into everyday wellbeing routines, not just clinical settings
• She is known for emphasising safety, intuition, and practical application in essential oil use
• Her teaching has influenced generations of practitioners worldwide
• She has a strong focus on the emotional and psychological dimensions of aromatherapy
• She served on the inaugural council of the International Federation of Aromatherapists (IFA) and chaired its research committee, which oversaw early clinical work into essential oils, including studies relating to endometriosis.

About Emmanuel

Emmanuel Adukwu is a Professor of Applied Microbiology at the University of the West of England. He developed interest in essential oils over two decades ago and has conducted research into the antimicrobial effects of essential oils against a plethora of clinically relevant pathogens using a range of experimental approaches. He has directed several research studies at masters and doctoral level that involve the use of essential oils with several conference abstracts and published articles in this area. Emmanuel believes in this powerful resource from nature and it’s potential in managing the growing concern caused by antimicrobial resistant pathogens especially at a time where antibiotics and antifungals are less effective and in shortage.

Professor Adukwu is an educator and academic leader combining his research with senior leadership at the University of the West of England where he serves as Dean for Students.

About Pauline

Pauline is an organic skincare expert, Fellow of the Royal Society of Chemistry, and founder of Nourish London (www.nourishlondon.com), an award-winning certified organic, vegan, and cruelty-free skincare brand. Before launching the company, she spent over 25 years as Research Director at Neal’s Yard Remedies.

Drawing on her deep understanding of skin biology and natural science, Dr Pauline created Nourish London to deliver scientifically developed, high-performance organic skincare.

Driven by a passion for innovation, she continues to lead product development, advancing natural formulations that provide both immediate results and long-term skin benefits.

About Salvatore Battaglia

Salvatore Battaglia is a visionary leader in aromatherapy with over 40 years of experience harnessing essential oils for natural health. Qualified in naturopathy, herbal medicine, acupuncture, and aromatherapy, he has been deeply involved in professional associations and government committees to uphold high standards in aromatherapy education. Since 1988, he has taught internationally, spoken at conferences, advised hospital and elderly care committees on clinical trials, and run a holistic, ethical business emphasising natural and organic solutions. In 1991, he founded Perfect Potion to improve lives through certified organic aromatherapy products, natural skincare, and essential oils, setting a benchmark in Australia. Passionate about education and innovation, he now channels his creativity into helping people take ownership of their health via holistic products and his soon-to-be-launched online education platform. Alongside his wife Carolyn Stubbin and their pets, he shares his lifelong commitment to natural healing and the transformative potential of essential oils.

About Oluwadamilola
I am Dr Oluwadamilola Racheal Okeyoyin. I am a Lecturer in Biological Sciences, PhD funded by UWE Bristol and Pukka, Health Innovation West of England Fellow, Academic Member of the UWE Health Tech Hub and interdisciplinary researcher whose work spans microbiology, ethnopharmacology, analytical chemistry, and immersive science communication. My research investigates the therapeutic potential of herbal medicines, essential oils, and plant-based products, particularly their effects on the microbiome, and human health. Using advanced techniques, I explore how traditional herbal practices intersect with modern biomedical science, with the aim of uncovering new insights into antimicrobial resistance, inflammation, and metabolic health. Alongside laboratory-based research, I lead innovative projects that integrate VR, XR, and animation to democratise science and make complex biomedical concepts more accessible to wider audiences, including underserved communities.

My teaching is multidisciplinary as I have taught across biological sciences, midwifery, and food technologies, bringing together different perspectives to help students develop both specialist knowledge and transferable skills. My approach to teaching is student-centred and research-informed, with a strong emphasis on employability, professional identity, and fostering a sense of belonging for all learners. Beyond teaching and research, I have substantial leadership and governance experience within higher education. I have served as a panel member for the national Teaching Excellence Framework (TEF), contributing to the evaluation of teaching quality and student outcomes across UK universities. I was formerly Vice President Education of The Students’ Union at UWE, where I championed student voice and worked on initiatives to improve equity and access in higher education. I have also served as Programme Officer for the NIHR INSIGHT Southwest Central Collaboration, ensuring delivery of research and training partnerships across UWE Bristol and Bournemouth University. In addition, I managed the Biomedicine in Allied Health Diverse Internship Programme (BIAHDIP), enhancing placement opportunities for marginalised students and promoting diversity in biomedical education and practice.

I am currently an Accountability Partner on the University of Bristol’s Reparative Futures Programme, supporting efforts to address systemic injustices arising from the transatlantic trafficking of enslaved African people. At UWE, I have contributed to institutional governance as a member of the University Validation Panel, Academic Board, and Research and Knowledge Exchange Committee, ensuring high standards in education, research, and academic practice. I also sit on the Steering committee, co-chair the Marketing Committee and lead on Outreach Engagement and Social Impact for the Minoritised Life Scientists Future Forum (MLSFF), Europe’s first dedicated conference for underrepresented scientists, where I oversee engagement, communications, and social impact strategy. These roles reflect my broader commitment to advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion within the biosciences and across the wider higher education landscape.

My work bridges science, culture, and community, from researching herbal medicines and essential oils to creating innovative ways of communicating science and leading on governance and outreach. I am committed to making knowledge inclusive, impactful, and collaborative, and welcome opportunities to work with colleagues, students, and partners across academia, healthcare, and industry.