Antarctic Cities

The expeditioners

 

Hobart, Punta Arenas, Ushuaia, Christchurch, and Cape town are collectively known as “gateways” to Antarctica, having served as transition points to for decades. For the first time ever, as a part of the Antarctic Cities project, youth delegates were sent from each of the gateway cities on a week-long expedition to Antarctica. The voyagers traversed a range of international research bases, forging connections with the Antarctic and one another, returning to share their experience with all of us. They are now the co-founders of the Antarctic Youth Coalition. 

Meet Rudzani Silima

I am a Masters student at the Nelson Mandela University. Currently my studies focus on upwelling processes of eastern boundary upwelling systems, particularly the Benguela eastern boundary upwelling system, on the west coast of Southern Africa. I also work for the South African Environmental Observation Network (SAEON), in their oceanography modelling hub, where we investigate ocean processes with the help of Numerical models.

In my undergrad year, I invested a lot of interest in Marine Technology and Marine Physics, writing two reports on the most popular technical advancements we use in collecting data out at sea. I have a strong passion for physics and technical sciences and believe that these are two keys that will aid in unlocking the full potentiality of the oceans

As part of the first signatory countries of the Antarctic Treaty, South Africa has long since been involved in Antarctic research and has had significant contributions to the governance of this diplomatic continent. The presence of South Africa in the Antarctic is primarily one of science. The logistics made possible by the SA Agulhas 2, South Africa's designated ice-breaker and polar research vessel. Making her way to the SANAE 4 base every summer, a direct route from the Port of Cape Town. Often, Cape Towns status as a gateway city to Antarctica, is only madr known to scientist in polar research. The flow of information to the general public, stifled by scientific jargon.

My role in the AYC, I hope, would be one that will help narrow the gap between Antarctic research and the global Youth. One that will help spark curiosity about our polar oceans, the mechanisms that drive them and how these have an impact on our very own livelihoods. Inspire a generation of scientists and help foster an attitude of custodianship for the white continent by young people.

Meet Caleb Fraser

I represent the city of Christchurch (New Zealand). I am a student at the University of Canterbury studying towards a Bachelor of Laws and a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry. I hope to use this combination to better understand chemistry-based processes that are negatively impacting the environment and to act as an environmental diplomat that encourages the implementation of laws driven by sustainability. The city of Christchurch already has its own Antarctic Gateway Strategy that aims to celebrate their connection to Antarctica. I hope that the Antarctic Youth Coalition can align itself with and help build upon the preexisting strategies in Christchurch whilst expressing our own unique focus on youth and bringing the 5 gateway cities together. I strongly believe that the youth are the future leaders of our planet and that educating them on the importance of Antarctica and inspiring them to develop sustainable practices is more important than ever.

My travel to Antarctica was funded by LatAmCAPE, Antarctica New Zealand and Antarctic Heritage Trust.

Meet Chloe Power

I represent the city of Hobart (Australia). From since I can remember, I knew that studying the ocean would play a large part in my life. I have a bachelor’s degree in Marine and Environmental Science and a master’s degree in Marine and Antarctic Science. I currently research sub-Antarctic zooplankton and when I am not over a microscope or below the waves, I work as an expedition guide that travels around the waters of Australia and Antarctica enthusiastically interpreting and describing the area’s natural landscapes and wildlife. I have an immense passion for science communication and aim to help bridge the gap between the scientific community and the wider public. I hope to inspire youth in particular, to the amazing things that science entails, especially that of Antarctica. I aspire to create a strong sense of connectedness between Hobart and the icy continent, and am beyond excited to be a part of this incredible coalition of like-minded Antarctic lovers!

Meet Katia Macías

I was born and raised in the city Punta Arenas (Chile). I am an English teacher and I have been teaching English as a foreign language to young learners for three years. I have been involved in leadership roles, from Girl Scout to tutoring students with an interest in English and cultures. I am passionate about spending time in nature and going trekking. After arriving from Antarctica, I got involved with the CIGA, from the University of Magallanes, to work in an Antarctic seal with my Scout Group; so far, we’ve been participating in webinars and contests with the kids. My personal goal is teaching my students about the importance of Antarctica and spreading that message to my community. I consider myself as a natural, committed and organized young leader who looks forward to learning more about Antarctica and promoting the Coalition not only within her city but also across the globe. I am working to create visual support to our project and to the history and culture of my city. I am deeply honored that I was chosen to be part of this expedition; I got to know an amazing group of people and I am eager to start working for our coalition.

Meet Florencia Garro 

I live in Ushuaia (Argentina), known as the southernmost city in the world, where I was born and raised. I hold a degree in Business Administration from the Universidad de Buenos Aires, and I have extensive experience in the hospitality and services industries. My passions are manifested in photography and the enjoyment and care of nature. My ancestral heritage strongly ties me to Tierra del Fuego, where I enjoy skiing in the mountains and exploring the native southern beech forests. Antarctica is a place I connect with emotionally and intellectually with a sense of responsibility for its management and protection. I aspire to develop a greater knowledge of the Antarctic continent in my hometown. Upon returning from the Antarctic Cities Youth Expedition in February 2020, I have embarked on sharing my experience with the local community, particularly youth, using dynamic and creative, visual and interactive tools for education and outreach. I'm really proud to be a founding member of the Antarctic Youth Coalition, an organization being formed with a commitment based on the three values that determine Antarctica; peace, collaboration and science.