Emi Imai
(she/her)Founder of Boro Doughnut and Earthian
Community, Connect, Action. We weave community through collaboration and creativity, where kindness to people and the planet becomes visible action. Every connection made, every skill shared, every community endeavour is one small step towards Middlesbrough thriving within the Doughnut – creating fond memories along the way.
Emi arrived in Middlesbrough in 2018, bringing global perspectives shaped by life in Japan, Thailand, China, Germany, the USA, Surrey and Oxfordshire. As founder of DE Community Network group, Boro Doughnut CIC, she champions Doughnut Economics principles—creating spaces where communities can thrive within planetary boundaries.
As well as managing Boro Doughnut, Emi balances multiple roles: primary school supply teacher, Learning and Development Facilitator at Drive Engagement/Camerons Link, and reflexologist at Emi Health. This diverse experience reflects her holistic approach to community wellbeing.
Her passion centres on regenerating Berwick Hills' abandoned Edible Forest Garden, reviving both the permaculture site and community spirit. She advocates for improved waste management across Middlesbrough and amplifies voices often unheard—alleyway communities and frontline staff whose wellbeing needs deserve recognition.
Through hands-on action and collaborative actions, Emi demonstrates how regenerative practices can transform neighbourhoods, reconnect people with nature, and build resilient, caring communities where everyone can flourish.