United in their mission to foster diverse leadership and elevate women in decision-making roles, an expedition of 124 women from around the globe – including South African conservationist Aaniyah Martin – will set sail to Antarctica this January. The participants, with backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM), will gain first-hand experience in one of the earth’s most vulnerable ecosystems, while using their expertise to advance research and sustainability initiatives.
“The journey represents a unique opportunity to amplify the voices of women leaders with backgrounds in STEMM. I’m excited to collaborate with like-minded women from around the world to drive change for our planet,” says Martin, who is also acting as a programme facilitator during the voyage.
Departing from Ushuaia, Argentina, on 28 January, the cohort of women, who come from 24 countries, including Australia, the United States, China, Spain, the UK, and Saudi Arabia, will work collaboratively to tackle global sustainability issues. Among the participants are a geochemist, mathematician, marine biologist, immunologist, and many other accomplished professionals, along with nine esteemed faculty members – some of the world’s foremost coaches and leadership experts.
“The world needs more bold women leaders in decision-making roles to drive smart, sustainable solutions,” says Sarah Derry, CEO of Homeward Bound. “Leaders with STEMM backgrounds hold the key to a sustainable future, which is why we are bringing this extraordinary group of women and non-binary leaders to Antarctica to reflect, connect, and take bold action for a sustainable future.”
The expedition will highlight the importance of diversity in leadership, bringing together a team of exceptional women and non-binary leaders committed to addressing global challenges through their unique expertise. The group will work together to reflect on their personal and professional growth, guided by leadership tools such as the Life Styles Inventory™ (LSI), developed by Human Synergistics.
In addition to the support from Human Synergistics, Acciona, a renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure company, has been a key partner in supporting Homeward Bound’s mission since 2018. The partnership helps bring the vision of elevating women with a background in STEMM to life, fostering a global community of changemakers dedicated to creating a sustainable future. Acciona has also collaborated with Spanish music group Belter Souls to create the anthem Changing, available on Spotify, to celebrate the journey.
This expedition marks a significant milestone as it will be Homeward Bound’s final voyage to Antarctica for now. Going forward, the initiative will be extending their experiential component to the Serengeti in Tanzania, with the goal of expanding its global collaboration of women with STEMM backgrounds.
For more information, visit www.homewardboundprojects.com.au