Largest Ever All-Women Expedition Sets Sail for Antarctica

To promote sustainability, 188 women from across the globe are preparing to set sail for Antarctica in November. This expedition is a collaborative effort aimed at promoting the long-term sustainability of our planet. Comprising scientists, technologists, engineers, mathematicians, and medical professionals (STEMM), these women will gain firsthand experience of one of the Earth's most precious ecosystems while utilizing their expertise to advance research and legislation.

Organized by Homeward Bound, a global leadership initiative, this mission represents a pivotal step toward bridging the gender gap in STEMM fields and addressing the challenges posed by climate change. Departing from Argentina on two voyages, this diverse group includes women from 25 countries who are already spearheading positive change in sustainability and striving for gender equality in STEMM.

From South Africa, Gina Ziervogel, Director of the African Climate and Development Initiative (ACDI), and Nirvani Dhevcharran, Chief Technology Officer at the Foschini Group, are among the pioneering participants. In Kenya, Philista Malaki, a Research Scientist at the National Museums of Kenya, is contributing her expertise in biodiversity conservation management and avian research.

In Zimbabwe, Moreangels Muchaneta Mbizah, Founder and Executive Director of Wildlife Conservation Action, combines her conservation and community development background to drive positive change.

The Homeward Bound initiative is working toward empowering 10,000 women with STEMM backgrounds to lead, influence, collaborate, and contribute to policymaking for a more sustainable future by 2036.

Before embarking on this life-changing journey, participants undergo a 12-month virtual leadership program that enhances their leadership and strategic capabilities. The voyage itself will be a continuous learning experience with lectures, workshops, and networking sessions, all designed to help harness women's leadership skills for global change and sustainability.

This endeavour is not just a journey to the Earth's southernmost continent; it's a powerful statement on the role of women in STEMM fields, understanding our planet's challenges, and architecting solutions. These women are steering a global effort toward a more equal leadership landscape and a sustainable future for our world.

The first voyage departs on November 3 from Ushuaia, Argentina, aboard the Ushuaia, while the second journey sets sail on November 12 from Puerto Madryn, Argentina, aboard the Island Sky. Both voyages are anticipated to leave an indelible mark on the fight for global sustainability and gender equality in STEMM.

The voyage to Antarctica represents a unique opportunity to witness the remote beauty of this continent while contemplating the Earth's fragility and the pressing need to protect it. Homeward Bound CEO Pamela Sutton-Legaud expresses excitement about the journey, expecting the women to translate their learnings into impactful actions.

Gina Ziervogel, Nirvani Dhevcharran, and Philista Malaki, along with their fellow participants, are on the verge of a historic voyage that will not only change their lives but contribute significantly to the global efforts for sustainability, gender equality, and the protection of our planet's future.

Women like Gina, Nirvani, and Philista, with their backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine, will lead this unprecedented expedition to Antarctica with a mission that extends far beyond the icy reaches of the southernmost continent - a mission to reshape the world's future for the better.