who we are

At Project Apis CIC, we believe that beekeeping is more than just caring for bees — it’s a way to care for people and communities, too.

We are a Norfolk-based community interest company working to make apiculture accessible, inclusive, and therapeutic. Our projects are designed to support individuals who may face barriers to wellbeing or community connection — including those with mental health challenges, people in recovery, and individuals from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds.

Founded with a vision of using beekeeping as a tool for healing and growth, we create spaces where people can slow down, learn new skills, and feel a sense of purpose. Whether through hands-on hive work, pollinator-friendly planting, or creative activities like beeswax candle-making, our community apiaries offer safe, welcoming environments for all.

Our team is made up of experienced facilitators, beekeepers, and community builders committed to creating opportunities for connection — with nature, with others, and with ourselves.

our history

Project Apis CIC began with a simple idea: that the quiet rhythm of the hive could help people heal.

After seeing firsthand with his small local business Gorleston Apiary how time spent with bees can calm the mind and lift the spirit, Jamie — a beekeeper based in Gorleston-on-Sea — set out to create something more than just an apiary. Inspired by the therapeutic power of nature and the need for inclusive community spaces, he founded Project Apis CIC to bring beekeeping to those who might otherwise never access it.

What started as a small initiative with a few hives and a lot of heart has since grown into a broader mission — to make apiculture accessible to everyone, especially individuals navigating mental health challenges, recovery, or isolation. Today, Project Apis CIC supports a growing network of community apiaries across Norfolk, offering practical volunteering, creative projects, and the chance to reconnect with nature and purpose.

Children painting colorful drawings on a beehive, including a smiling sun, flowers, and the word 'Earth'

Our Team

Jamie McBride

Founder & PACIC Beekeeping Mentor
Jamie is the founder of Project Apis CIC and the lead beekeeper behind Gorleston Apiary. With a background in both apiculture and community outreach, he brings a calm, hands-on approach to every project. His work is rooted in the belief that beekeeping should be for everyone — not just hobbyists or professionals, but anyone seeking peace, purpose, or connection.
Jamie leads volunteer sessions, develops new community apiaries, and is often found crafting beeswax candles or talking about pollinators at local events. His vision continues to guide the organisation’s commitment to accessibility, healing, and grassroots impact.
cullen brown

Director & PACIC Beekeeping Mentor
Cullen is a Director of Project Apis CIC and brings a practical, hands-on approach to beekeeping and volunteer support. He works closely with our community apiaries, helping mentor new beekeepers, support volunteers and care for the colonies as they grow and develop.
He also plays an important role in our bee breeding work, helping us raise calm, well-tempered bees suited to community beekeeping. Cullen’s experience, patience and enthusiasm make him a valued part of the team, particularly when helping people build confidence around the hives and take their first steps into beekeeping.
Jay

Director & Lead Beekeeper at Brian’s Secret Garden
Jay brings a strong background in community wellbeing and mental-health-focused initiatives, having been involved in a number of projects supporting people across the local area.
More recently, Jay took on Brian’s Secret Garden in Ludham, developing it into a woodland retreat where members of the community can spend time outdoors, connect with others and access support in a relaxed, low-pressure environment.
Brian’s Secret Garden is also home to one of Project Apis CIC’s community apiaries, where Jay is the lead beekeeper. As a Director, he brings together his experience of community support, nature-based activity and practical beekeeping, helping us create welcoming spaces where people can get involved at their own pace.