This initiative aims to unite leaders in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) to create sustainability solutions for the planet’s greatest challenges.
Homeward Bound is a non-profit organisation that provides online leadership programs and expeditions to bring together women and non-binary leaders from around the world to tackle climate change and create a positive impact on the future. This year's expedition marks the seventh annual journey and will depart from Ushuaia, Argentina, on January 28 aboard the MS Island Sky.
Empowering Women in Leadership Roles to Drive Climate Action
“The world needs more bold women in leadership roles to drive smart, sustainable solutions,” said Sarah Derry, CEO of Homeward Bound. “Leaders with STEMM backgrounds are essential in solving the world’s most significant challenges. However, many lack the support they need to flourish in leadership positions. This initiative brings together extraordinary women and non-binary leaders to reflect, connect, and take bold action for a sustainable future.”
The expedition team, dubbed HB Transform, comprises professionals from 23 different nationalities, including countries such as Australia, the United States, and China. They include geochemists, marine biologists, and other STEM professionals, as well as faculty members from the Homeward Bound initiative.
Fostering Sustainability Solutions for Global Challenges
Engineer Zoe Eather from Australia said: “I hope to grow as a leader, share ideas, and create ways to amplify how we can use smart technology and data for public good and solve big, wicked problems around the world.”
Audiologist Nad Kattan from Saudi Arabia added: “I look forward to learning more about sustainability and environmental stewardship from a diverse perspective, challenging myself as a leader, and collaborating with inspiring women to drive positive change.”
Supporting Renewable Energy and Sustainable Development
Since 2018, renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure company Acciona has supported the Homeward Bound initiative's expeditions. “We are grateful to Acciona for helping us bring our vision and mission to life in Antarctica,” said Sarah Derry. “Together, we’ve inspired a global community of changemakers ready to take action for our planet.”
To celebrate the expedition, Acciona has collaborated with Spanish group Belter Souls to create a special anthem, Changing, now available on Spotify.
Historic Milestone for Women in STEM and the Homeward Bound Initiative
On board, participants will reflect on their key learnings through the Life Styles Inventory (LSI), a diagnostic tool from Human Synergistics, which measures learned thinking behaviour. This tool plays an integral part in shaping their leadership development, especially for women in STEM.
This year’s expedition will mark the final journey to Antarctica for Homeward Bound, as the organisation plans to expand its experiential component offering to the Serengeti and Tanzania in the coming years.
