Last year Pure Advantage ran the Expedition to Antarctica Competition to find one young New Zealander with a unique green growth vision for our future, and the drive to help achieve it. We asked entrants to send us a video showcasing what green growth meant to them and to describe how they would champion the shaping of New Zealand’s green economy. We had a lot of entrants and a lot of votes. But in September of 2011 we were proud to announce Sarah Hall from Auckland as the winner of that contest.
And now, as of February 25th 2012, Sarah has begun her epic voyage to one of the most spectacular places on the planet, leaving from Ushuaia Argentina on board the Sea Spirit with Polar Explorer Robert Swan. The expedition to the Antarctic is run by 2041, an organization founded by Rob Swan and named for the year the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty could be modified or amended. It is with the support of this inspiring group of people and Rob Swan in particular that Pure Advantage has been able to make this amazing prize a reality.
New Zealand has strong ties to Antarctica and history of helping preserve and protect its environment. The purpose of the 2041 voyage is to inspire young people (as well as industry, and business) on the issues of energy conservation, renewable energy, and to promote the positive roles individuals and business can play in the road to world sustainability. During the expedition Sarah will also be part of the ‘Leadership on the Edge’ programme that applies Rob’s personal experiences as a leader to build her team and leadership skills, as well as developing here ability to debate the key issues facing Antarctica and the planet at large. When she returns we’re hoping that what she learns during her Antarctica experience she will apply in this country in helping to build a clean green future of which all New Zealanders can be proud. Along with many others she’s already pledged her support to Pure Advantage and our quest to turn this country’s natural advantages into greater wealth for all.
Also taking part in this 15-day expedition are a mix of international corporate leaders, environmentalists, entrepreneurs, teachers and young adventurers. Together they will explore the Antarctic Peninsula and gain firsthand knowledge of the continent’s fragile ecosystem, experience its unique wildlife and observe the magnificent landscape – learning more about the effects of climate change and what we can all do to protect the last great wilderness on Earth.
You can see Sarah’s winning entry here and keep up to date on all the details of her incredible journey right here.
We wish you all the best Sarah and can’t wait to hear more!
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