Name: Adrian “Jumper” Cross

Adrian, better known as Jumper, is an Arctic and mountain trained ex-member of the British Forces, and has been involved with Robert Swan and the team since 1998. As an accomplished yachtsman, he was instructed originally to lead an eight strong team by yacht to perform a photographic reconnaissance, and to record sixteen global warming indicator sites along the Antarctic Peninsular.

Adrian also played a key role in the Coca-Cola/ Inspire Circumnavigation of Africa by our ice yacht 2041, and he also had a special interest in the construction of the e-base at Bellingshausen.

He is presently working in the UK alongside a specialist waterborne, search, rescue, recovery, and special ops support unit. He’s proud of his occasional Guest Tutor status with Teesside University Business School, and takes a lead position in the delivery of a national “Water Awareness and Safety” training course for the UK Environment Agency, British Police, and for some blue chip companies in the private sector. In his spare time he can be found sailing his own yacht “Gentoo of Antarctica” in the North Sea.

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Name: Alan Brill
Age: Nationality: American
Country of residence: USA
Company: Kroll Inc
Occupation: Senior Managing Director

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Inquisitive, intense, analytic, funny, adaptable

Name three things that you cannot live without:

A computer, books, interesting problems to work on

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

I really enjoy Hong Kong. There is a vitality and drive that I have not seen anywhere else.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I have a lot of experience in it and networking. I recently completed a first aid/CPR/AED refresher course, and had taken military first aid courses.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

My personal inspiration and mentor was US Navy Rear Admiral Grace Murray Hopper (also often known in computer science circles as “Amazing Grace.”)

Dr. Hopper was the inventor of the first computer assembler and compiler, and what became the Cobol language. She was one of the first programmers in the world, having been on the ENIAC project at the University of Pennsylvania during World War II. After the war, they kicked her out of the navy for being too old (40 at the time). By 1968, naval programming was having problems and they recalled her to active duty. She left her job as Vice President for Programming Languages at Univac because she loved the navy and felt she could make a difference.

She created a small technology team at the Pentagon that completely turned around the navy’s approach to programming. She also decided that the prevailing wisdom – which Cobol could never run on minicomputers, was wrong – and built the first Cobol compilers for minis.

I was fortunate enough to have the opportunity to work with her when I was an army lieutenant at the Pentagon.

She taught me valuable leadership lessons.

- Admiral Hopper believed that it was often so difficult in a bureaucracy to get authorization to do something you believed important that she taught me that it was often easier to get forgiven than it was to get permission.

- People often did not believe she could do what she had, in fact, done. She understood this, and said “If you do something once, people will call it an accident. If you do it twice, they call it a coincidence. But do it a third time and you’ve just proven a natural law!”

She also taught me that knowing you made a difference is ultimately the best objective strive for.

She was eventually retired from the navy (over her strenuous and vociferous objection) and died several years later. She is remembered today through a ship that the navy named after her, the USS Grace Hopper, an Arleigh Burke class guided missile destroyer.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Weather changes have cost me a lot of time with travel delays. I don’t know that the overall impact has so far been physical as much as it is emotional. It’s personally embarrassing to me that our country hasn’t signed on to the Kyoto accords, and that doing something about climate change hasn’t been seen as a priority by the US administration.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I have wanted to find a way for people to take some personal responsibility for doing something about climate change. It doesn’t have to be big. Swapping out the incandescent lights in your house for compact fluorescent isn’t a huge deal, but if done by enough people, it helps. I’m not above having people do the right thing even if they are doing it with an ulterior purpose. While visiting my parents in Florida, I not only changed their bulbs to CFLs, but got several of their neighbors to do so, not so much to save energy or reduce avoidable carbon loads, but because they are guaranteed to last for years (which is more than I can say for some of the neighbors.) I also helped our neighbor switch his holiday light display from the little incandescent bulbs to LEDs, which combined both a more beautiful display and reduced energy consumption by more than 90%.

That’s all good, but I hope I can use my experience and skills in adult/lifelong education to provide a vehicle for getting the word out about climate change and what we can each do, both as individuals and through our political systems, to begin changing things. One of the things that Admiral Hopper taught me is that when a warship is steaming full speed ahead, it takes a while for it to turn or to stop, but that the key is getting the turn started. I’m hoping for some insight and guidance during our trip so that I can make that training happen.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

I would like to develop the basis for a course aimed at adult learners who are increasingly being recognized through the development of lifelong learning institutes at major universities. I hope that by adapting some of the work that your team has done, and the knowledge I gain on the trip, I can develop something that we can make freely available to lifelong learners.

I will also do whatever I can to help with computers and networking at the E-Base, aboard ship or otherwise during the trip.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I think that professionally, I’ll probably be remembered for helping to get the science of digital forensics recognized as a valid and important forensic science. This February, the American Academy of Forensic Sciences is going to recognize digital forensics as an independent forensic science, and the American Society of Crime Laboratory directors did so a few years ago. I think my books have been helpful, and think the next one – The Information Iceberg – will be important in how people view information in companies.

I want to help to make a difference in getting people to recognize the realities of climate change, but have not quite figured out how to do so. I hope that we’ll be able to work on that during IAE6.

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Name: Alan Alex
Age: 30
Nationality: American by choice, Indian by birth
Country of residence: USA
Company: Akzo Nobel
Occupation: Regional controller

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Hardworking, tenacious, focused, creative and loyal

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Family, home-made food and personal challenges

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Islands of Indonesia, especially Bali, Lombok and Sumatra

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I have no specific skill that I could mention. I am pretty good with safety related issues as I worked in many chemical plants and I got fire fighting and emergency rescue training, etc. I am a quick learner and I volunteer for the first round of cooking, if needed.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Nelson Mandela, because of his character, conviction, leadership and perseverance

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Growing up in India I am used to the warm climate. But, in the last decade or so, the summers in the region are so hot the temperatures reaches near or over 40˚C and summer afternoons are sometimes spend indoors to avoid the sweltering heat. In these areas fresh water supply is always a concern. Families and some times entire villages have to travel long distances or wait in long lines to get their daily ration of water for basic needs. Water wells and lines of people waiting for access to them are getting deeper as we experience longer, warmer summers.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Personally, I always want to understand more and gain perspectives on the issues related to climate change, and then educate and act on areas within my reach.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

I hope to gain perspective, inspiration, and time for reflection on myself.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I want to contribute to the world by helping young people get education, and I concentrate on people who normally do not have a chance for any education in their lives.

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Name: Alena Klochkova
Age: 35
Nationality: Russian
Country of residence: Russia
Company: Coca-Cola HBC Eurasia
Occupation: Financial Controller

Describe yourself in five adjectives

Purposeful, ambitious, hard-working, but kind and cheery

Name three things that you cannot live without

Clear water and air, soap

Where is your favourite place/city you have visited so far?

Phuket Island

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Peter the Great. Peter engineered a series of reforms that were to put Russia among the major European powers. Peter opened Russia to the West. He invited the best European engineers, shipbuilders, architects, craftsmen and merchants to come to Russia. Hundreds of Russians were sent to Europe to get the best education and learn different arts and crafts.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I feel that this problem is real, just observing changes in Moscow winters – they are warmer and warmer every year – 0˚C in February as of this week – abnormal temperature. Disastrous floods are getting more frequent in Russia and many other countries. They account for more than half of weather-related dangers. The Kuban and Stavropol regions, Russia’s breadbasket, permanently face this danger. Economic disasters caused by natural calamities are becoming ever more frequent. The World Bank estimates Russia’s weather damages, largely caused by climate change, at an annual 30-60 billion rubles, roughly $1-$2 billion.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

We can reduce pollution and other adverse environmental effects brought about by humankind. It is introducing new, clean technologies for industry and everyday life. Cleaner air will help reverse the trend of climate change.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Inspiration and new friends.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I would like to be known as good mother for my future children, constant friend for my friends, and fair manager-leader for my team.

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Name: Alex Trapp
Age: 32
Nationality: The world
Country of residence: Mexico
Company: Cañada de la Virgen
Occupation: Rancher

Describe yourself in 5 adjectives:

Thoughtful, generous, caring, adventurist and patient

Name 3 things that you cannot live without:

A computer, delicious food, and great people

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Patagonia, Argentina

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Survival techniques, cooking, planning, organizing and strategy, photography, astronomy

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Any past shaman and the Dalai Lama for their spiritual insight and light.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

We feel it out on the ranch. The amount of rainfall we get annually has slowly fallen over the years. Less rain, less grasses.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I have moved the ranch to solar water heaters and solar power. Next up is wind power and kinetic energy to power the pump to water the fields.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Simply put… a great experience.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I will let my life speak for itself and not judge. If I leave a footprint behind, then so be it. It was the way the universe intended my life to happen.

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Name: Alexander Yaroshevich
Age: 35
Nationality: Russian
Country of residence: Belarus
Company: The Coca-Cola Company
Occupation: Coca-Cola Belarus – General Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Responsible, flexible, friendly, humble, caring

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Sleep, food, people

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?:

Bergen, Norway

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Basic construction skills, carrying a load.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Mahatma Gandhi – the man who almost single handedly brought independence for huge India, while building his life around concepts of simplicity and non-violence

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I only had two days of winter fun with my 3 kids this winter. And this is in Minsk, Belarus, where we used to have at least 3 month of snow. It bugs me every time I fill gas for my company SUV. I’m supposed to have a large car in order not to get stuck in the snow, but burning so much fuel makes the snow disappear in the process…

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Being an employee of The Coca-Cola Company, environment is always high on priority list. I’m very aware and cautious about environmental impact our industry has and we are constantly looking for ways to minimize this impact. Personally I feel that climate change should be on top of everyone’s mind all the time – for example, do not let the hot water run while brushing your teeth first thing in the morning…

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

A credible and convincing story about Antarctica and forthcoming 2041 and global climate change. This will be my story that I will be telling people for as long as I live.

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Name: Alfredo Merino Sánchez
Age: 55
Nationality: Spanish
Country of residence: Spain
Organization: El Mundo
Occupation: Photojournalist

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Curious, eager, someone with improvisation capacity, sportsman, peaceful

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Family, love and friendship

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Everest

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Mountain guiding, cooking, work in a team

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Roald Amundsen and John Hunt at Everest ‘53, because of their organization capacity

How has climate change impacted you personally?

It worries me very much

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes I do. Normally I write about it on El Mundo newspaper.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

To know better the last corner of the world

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

As a good man

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Name: Alvaro Bernad
Age: 39
Nationality: Spanish
Country of residence: Spain
Company: The Coca-Cola Company
Occupation: Shopper Marketing Manager Europe

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Responsible, calm, honest, pragmatic, enjoyer

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Sun, sea & my great family (this will make 5 things!)

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Machu Pichu (Peru)

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I’m a Spanish-speaking person. I’m sure this will be useful in Argentina.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Gandhi: the power of peace

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Here are only a few examples: the skiing season in Spain has been reduced from 3-4 months to 3-4 weeks!! This winter has been the one with less rain from the last 60 years.

Also the temperature raising is strongly impacting the Mediterranean life, by changing the migratory flows of some fishes and, thereby, increasing dramatically the presence of non indigenous seaweeds & jellyfishes on the coast.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes. Reduce my family’s impact over the environment by insisting in the need of reduce-reuse & recycle.

At the same time, I’m collaborating with a biological foundation for preserving the Mediterranean environment after the impact of years of unregulated fishing and pollution and climate change.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

First-hand contact with a natural environment to see the real impact of climate change. Get additional inspiration to be able to inspire others upon return.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

As a great & inspiring father for my kids.

Also because I helped to recover the Mediterranean life.

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Name: Andreas Kadi
Age: 43
Nationality: Austria
Country of residence: Belgium
Company: The Coca-Cola Company
Occupation: Food scientist

Describe yourself in five adjectives;

Honest, positive, fair, sometimes impatient; the fifth adjective people have to find out themselves…

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Air, water and food, love

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?:

Vietnam

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? E.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Experienced in working and leading teams in extreme weather conditions, good skier, working in diverse teams, planning and managing logistics of large groups, good swimmer, skilled in explaining complex technical details to lay people, passionate sailor who has never been seasick in the past 25 years (which does not mean anything for tomorrow…).

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

All those who have believed or do believe in a Europe where people move closer to each other, where borders (both physical and mental) are removed and where peace and prosperity should be granted for all. There may be individuals who stand out but it is the large number of leaders – whether they lead in public or hidden – who will make this come true one day.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

As a scientist I took an in-depth look at the facts around climate change and I find it amazing how many people still disconnect those facts from their personal behavior. Sometimes me included.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes, I live more consciously. Many decisions we are taking every day can have an impact on the climate, for example: the goods we buy, the food we eat, the cars we drive or the vacations we take.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

The energy to fulfill the mission that the European Coca-Cola team has given themselves. This mission means to inspire and influence change. We will use the Antarctica expedition as a platform to inform others about the real impact of global warming and inspire, educate and influence them to help them change their personal behavior.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

He has contributed to a better world.

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Name: Andrey Yeshchenko
Age: 37
Nationality: Russian
Country of residence: Russia
Company: Coca-Cola HBC Eurasia
Occupation: Human Resources Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives;

Honest, purposeful, self-motivated, unselfish, fair

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Honesty, because you have to trust people; family and friends, because without them you are nothing; humor in everyday life (if I have a reasonable supply of pure air, fresh water and some food).

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Dombay and Damhurz (mountainous regions in northern Caucasus, Russia

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

First aid

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

First, I would name Aristotle, one of the great philosophers of ancient Greece (and a coach to political leaders) who has influenced how the world acts and thinks today. However, as we are separated from him in the time, I’d like to name mahatma Gandhi as a great leader and a pioneering thinker who was well ahead of his time, because only now people come to comprehend the importance of his ideas and steps. Among the principles according to which he lived were truth (he made a continuous effort to discover the wider meaning of it), simplicity (aiming to give up unnecessary expenses and have a simple lifestyle), faith (he believed all religions to be equal), purity (he tirelessly explained the importance of purity of air, water and food), and nonviolence (he was the first man to apply this principle in the political field on a large scale). As the world faces global issues, the importance of Gandhi’s thoughts also become global.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

In the recent years I have already come to experience the summer heat waves, the fires and the floods (not mentioning that the weather forecasts are rarely true on a big scale). It is not quite possible to say that these events were caused only by climate change, but they are surely in line with what scientists say climate change is causing. And I assume that we are likely to experience more frequent extreme weather events in the coming years.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

The need to do something about climate change is driven by common sense. Climate change is truly everyone’s problem, at the same time; everybody is a part of the solution. If we are set to put the things right, every person will have to make the contribution, so every individual has to begin with himself using the common sense, e.g. Switch off the lights when you don’t need them (not only at home, but at the workplace and anywhere else as well!), do not leave appliances on standby, unplug mobile chargers when we aren’t using them, do not speed in the car. I know that I know little about the possibilities to make my personal contribution to this end, but one thing I’m sure about is that I have to increase my awareness about the possible controls.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Bearing in mind the extreme conditions of the expedition, I hope that its benefits will include gaining more awareness what the leadership concept is about and what I personally am able to do to make the world better. I hope to develop new relationships, and to gain some good qualities from the people of other cultures. I also hope to view the world in a larger perspective. And I’m looking forward to share some good time with great people.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

Nothing special, except that I went the extra mile for the people I cared about, that I was able to make a difference in the lives of the people I met, and that I made a decent contribution for the team I worked with. And I hope that people will be able to say my name with a smile on their faces!

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Name: Annika Boberg
Age: 41
Nationality: Swedish
Country of residence: Sweden
Company: Lokaldelen I Sverige AB
Occupation: Sales Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Responsible, grateful, hard-working, legible/clear, enthusiastic

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Family, friends and food

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Koh Ngai, Thailand

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Creative bartender, cooking

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Sven-Göran “Svennis” Eriksson, because of his success and ability to create a well-functioning football team of a crowd of egoists.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

The winters in Sweden are nowadays more or less without snow, and the difference between the 4 seasons are smaller. In the south part of Sweden, where I live, we haven’t got any snow at all this winter.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I do some recycle today, I haven’t thought about it so much, but I do some recycling today. But after this expedition I’m convinced that I will start thinking about the climate changes deeper!

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Of course a memory for life! Also to learn and experience al lot of new things that I hope to be useful in my leadership. Last but not the least I hope to have a lot of fun.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I wish to be known as a good mother and wife, a positive person and a good supporter to all my friends and colleagues and a successful manager.

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Name: Arthur Nieuw
Age: 50 (birthday is the 5th of March)
Nationality: Dutch
Country of residence: Curaçao, Netherlands Antilles
Organization: A-team/ Amigu di Tera (Friends of the Earth)
Occupation: Lawyer

Describe yourself in five adjectives;

Creative, humorous, diplomatic, social and optimistic/positive

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Human rights, human friendliness and traveling

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Amsterdam

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Entertainment, serving drinks, teaching and inspiring people, translation (speak English, Spanish, Dutch, French and Papiamento), organizing events and knowledge of international environmental law

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Jesus Christ of Nazareth, because he wanted humankind to choose the spiritual path instead of the materialistic, individualistic and selfish path.

And he is very right! I still have hope that one day his teachings will be realized, and that all nations and humans will be united for a better world where we’ll take care of each other in particular and nature in general.

I should admit that I’m neither religious nor dogmatic but simply love his teachings, personality and attitude. And finally, the impact he made on a big percentage of humanity, still lives on.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Our existence is in peril, and governments are not taking enough action to increase awarness of humanity and industries of the danger.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

To inspire and teach, especially young people about the cause of it and how to prevent it from getting worse.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

To polish my communication skills so that I’ll definitely be able to inspire and convince especially the community of Curaçao and that of the whole Caribbean, and if it’s possible of planet earth in general about the threat of global warming and the need to use alternative energy, preferably clean energy. In addition it’s imperative also to influence our future generation about the preservation of the only continent that belongs to the international community, by prolonging the existing law in 2041.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

As a fighter for human rights (which automatically includes environmental law) and by doing so achieve a better and united world for our future generation. It is my dream to organize the next Kyoto Summit in 2012 on the island of Curaçao.

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Name: Charlie Gower
Age: ageless!!
Nationality: British
Country of residence: England
Company: Coca-Cola Great Britain
Occupation: Planning and Insights

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Passionate, energetic, multi-faceted, healthy, considerate

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Sunshine, exercise, contact lenses

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?:

East Sooke, Vancouver Island

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

First aid certificate, cooking

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Emmeline Pankhurst, one of the founders of the British suffragette movement, is associated with the struggle for the enfranchisement of women in the United Kingdom, immediately preceding World War I. Her approach to the campaign was not universally popular.

In 1914, when World War I broke out Pankhurst felt that nothing should interfere with the war effort. All attempts to gain votes for women were put on hold, and her efforts were instead directed to urging women to take over men’s jobs, so that the men could go and fight in the war. The British government started to implement voting rights for women, across the then United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland, in March 1918.

If I were allowed two I would have to include Al Gore for his tireless work to raise awareness of climate change.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Climate change has made me more conscious that I need to do something myself and not leave it all to the responsibility of governments. On a trivial note, I got sunburnt in Australia although I did have lots of sun tan lotion on!

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes I have. A number of small things which all do mount up to something and have started to influence those around me. Examples include energy saving bulbs, using canvas bags for shopping, recycling as much as possible in the home, buying locally, walking to work, etc. I have also joined the green team at work which also has a mission to reduce, reuse and recycle.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Time to reflect and learn more about myself. Be inspired to influence others to change their behavior about climate change. Become more effective as a team player and leader at work

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

My positive attitude and my ability to make the best out of any situation.

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Name: Claire Blakeway
Age: 31
Nationality: British
Country of residence: UK
Company: BP plc
Occupation: Communications Project Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Calm, focused, positive, intuitive, loyal

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Assuming the obvious (water, food and air to breathe) then family/friends; trust and happiness

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Yosemite National Park, California.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Verbal and written communication skills, physical fitness and I’m not a bad cook.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Nelson Mandela for his tenacity, courage and determination to succeed in the face of adversity.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

On the news, I’ve witnessed the damage caused by the floods last year in England; the destruction of natural habitat caused by disappearing arctic ice, hurricanes in New Orleans and heat waves across Europe. As a keen scuba diver, I’ve also been to dive sites in Bali and Australia where the coral has been bleached by rising sea temperatures.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes – small things such as switching electrical appliances off at the wall, changing to energy efficient light bulbs and recycling. I know I could do more though - flying less for a start and offsetting the emissions.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

I’m hoping to meet some intriguing people and to learn more about Antarctica and some of the ways we can individually help to combat climate change. I’m also hoping to develop my leadership skills, be tested under some extreme mental and physical conditions and to consequently learn more about my strengths and weaknesses.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

For always acting with courage and integrity; giving anything a go once and having a giggle and rarely moaning along the way. For inspiring others to achieve something remarkable.

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Name: David Lichtneker
Age: 43
Nationality: British
Country of residence: Netherlands
Company: Akzo Nobel
Occupation: Editorial Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Hairy, energetic, conscientious, precise, out-going

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Family, music, photography and Manchester City (can i have four?)

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

It’s a toss-up between Glencoe in Scotland and Italy.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I can cook. But practical skills? Unless you need a photo taking, a story writing, or something doing in Photoshop that’s probably it. Oh, I was a geography student, so I’m not bad on climate and geomorphology.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Martin Luther King. He showed strength in adversity and was a true inspiration and icon to millions of people who trusted and relied on him. He was committed, determined, passionate and loyal to those whose rights he was fighting for.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I am not aware of any significant personal impact. However, my awareness and understanding of the problem has increased significantly over the last few years, helped largely by being alerted to Robert Swan and the efforts of his 2041 organization.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

On a personal level I have felt compelled to recycle more, use the car less and educate my children about the issue. On a professional level, I have tried to seek out and publish relevant stories and features which highlight what our own company is doing about the problem. Hence my participation in this expedition.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Pictures of seals? No seriously, as a photo-journalist, one of my main tasks is to actually take photographs and document the expedition. But I also hope to enhance my leadership skills in my own particular field and significantly enhance my knowledge about key environmental issues. If I can return truly inspired, with some quality story material and some striking images, I’ll be more than happy.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I’d like to be known for something other than my hair and having a funny surname. Preferably as someone who tried to make a difference where and when he could. Someone who tried to enjoy life and helped others to make the most out of their time on the planet.

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Name: David Miles
Age: 43
Nationality: Welsh (British)
Country of residence: England (UK)
Company: Asda Stores Ltd (Wal-mart stores, Inc. UK)
Occupation: Commercial Director, Non Food

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Fun, fast, happy, positive

Name three things that you cannot live without:

People, sport, fun

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Frazer Island, Queensland Australia.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I can cook. I can see the funny side of most things.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Aneurin Bevan. Labour politician. He stood up for his principles in spite of immense criticism from within as well as outside his party. He managed to champion the cause not only of the masses, but of the individual.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Apart from subjectively strange weather, it hasn’t.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

We recycle religiously. Try to use less resources - energy. In work, I have sponsored recycling programmes, and worked on sustainable product sourcing - because ultimately, it’s the most cost effective way of doing business.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Experience an incredible environment. Some good leadership development. Meet a diverse group of people.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

Work hard - play hard. A good family-man, and good fun to be with.

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Name: Delando Hawthorne
Age: 36, but turning 37 on March 15th
Nationality: Canadian, born in Jamaica
Country of residence: Canada
Company: Akzo Nobel
Occupation: Strategic Sales & Industry Relations Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Passionate, dedicated, persistent, outgoing, and high-maintenance (does that count as one?)

Name three things that you cannot live without: other than my family:

Good conversation, dental floss, Haagen Daas™ cookie-dough dynamo

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Halifax, Nova Scotia is my favorite city. It has all the major amenities, yet feels like a small town. The people are almost friendly to a fault. It’s surrounded by the Atlantic, which makes you feel grounded. It has several major universities and colleges so it is a bastion of young, smart & energetic people. The downtown is vibrant and full of life without being over the top. You can feel you’re in another civilization and in total tranquility when you travel 30 minutes outside the city.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I’m always looking out for other people to make sure that they are enjoying themselves and integrated into the group.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

There are too many to mention. I really am amazed by teachers and educators. Helping to build the future generation is the toughest and most important job in the world! Although not an historical figure yet, Tiger Woods’ internal drive and motivation is remarkable. He has all the material trappings, yet still has the hunger and desire to work tirelessly in order to succeed and improve his performance.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

There’s varying points of view about climate change and whether it is actually taking place or simply part of the long-term cooling and warming cycle of the earth. Certainly, it makes sense to err on the side of caution in the event that some of the changes are man-made and difficult to reverse. Government legislation has come into our industry forcing paint manufacturers to offer more environmentally friendly products.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I think we’ve all felt the need to be more environmentally conscious in our actions and the choices we make. I really don’t believe that government can solely address the issue. I strongly believe that we, as individuals and consumers, must demand more from government and corporations. For instance, some industries i.e. Food & beverage, may be required to indicate the carbon footprint of their products on the packaging.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Experience is the best teacher and I hope to grow personally and professionally during this trip. I would surmise after learning about Robert Swan’s accomplishments that it would be quite difficult to not be stimulated and motivated from being around him.

In order to grow, people need to operate outside our comfort zone. I would also like to take time during the trip to discover more about myself. Many significant scientific breakthroughs have taken place in outer space or in extremely hostile environments. Similarly, I can develop my inner self while exploring new environments by pushing my mind and body to severe limits.

I am really looking forward to spending time on the e-base and learning more about its’ construction, functionality and future commercial application of renewable energy.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

What a great question!!!! I would want to be remembered as someone who cared for his fellow brother and sisters, regardless of race, religion or creed. Someone who extends an equal amount of deference to the CEO and the janitor. Paradoxically, depending on the situation, someone who can take on either of those roles. Someone who listens. Someone who anticipates and identifies a problem and then choose to act or ignore it, based on the best possible outcome. Someone who treats people fairly, with respect and decency. Someone who was open minded to value others’ opinions even though they differ from my own. Someone who made a difference. Someone who believed that everyone needs to stretch and grow. Someone extremely motivated to overcome the odds and accomplish things when others feel it can’t be done. As a pioneer, a frame-breaker and a person who had the confidence to swim upstream and dare to be different.

I would rather die being naïve and innocently optimistic about people than wise and cynically pessimistic.

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Name: Diane Copini-Rigaud
Age: 48
Nationality: Dutch
Country of residence: Curacao, Netherlands Antilles
Organization: Amigu di Tera, Friends of the Earth Curacao
Occupation: Psychologist (specialized in clinical child and adolescent psychology)

Describe yourself in five adjectives;

Self-confident, balanced, fun loving, artistic, outgoing

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Family, friends, dogs

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

The Galapagos Islands

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Photography, painting, social skills, language skills (English, Spanish, Dutch, French, Papiamentu)

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Nelson Mandela for his integrity, his strong personality and perseverance proven by his 27 years of imprisonment and never losing focus of his goal, “civil rights”.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Seeing the disasters like droughts and flash floods and the like in the media has impacted me emotionally. Personally I have witnessed glaciers melting in Austria. In the tropics where I live the effects of climate change are not yet visible. The only thing that we are noticing is that the hurricanes tend to be more frequent, more intense and closer to our island, which is supposed to be outside the hurricane belt.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes, educating youngsters about the importance of trees, planting trees in our garden, then donating trees to others for them to plant, replace light bulbs for energy saving bulbs, use solar garden lights, conserve energy in general by switching off unneeded or not in use appliances, car-pooling.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

I am looking forward to interact with people from other nations and to learn from their experiences. I hope to get inspired and to be able to inspire others about global warming. Furthermore, I expect to hone my leadership skills.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

A pleasant and honest person that has contributed to a better world for all living creatures and especially for children and adolescents.

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Name: Emily Ziegler
Age: 20
Nationality: American
Country of residence: United States of America
School: Temple University and I also work at the law office of Christopher Giddings (both in Philadelphia!)
Course of study: Political Science, Economics, and French

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Inquisitive, energetic, athletic, gregarious, and industrious

Name three things that you cannot live without:

My cell phone!!!, pizza, and the Discovery/Discovery Health channels

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

It is dead tie between Edinburgh, Scotland and Chester, Wales

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Cooking!! I love to cook, it is the perfect way to de-stress and unwind!!

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Abraham Lincoln is awe-inspiring. Through a turbulent and divided America, he stood firm for what he believed to be true and right. Seldom do people hold true to their beliefs through trials and tribulations.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

It has caused me to become fully conscious of my daily actions and the implications it may have for the future.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

The looming threat of climate change has caused me to realize that the combination of seemingly mindless tasks make a difference, i.e. Walking to a close location vs. Driving, unplugging unused appliances, the use of public transportation, or carpooling.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Even though taking pictures of penguins will be a wonderful occurrence, I want to see the variations of beauty this world has to offer. I am so anxious to see the endless sea of white snow that is Antarctica as it is a part of the world so unlike the rest.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I hope that in my life that I can leave this world a kinder place. Kindness is not a luxury to be denied to any individual.

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Name: Emma Gould
Age: 20
Name of School: West Chester University of Pennsylvania
Year in School: Sophmore
Hobbies/interests: Tropical climates

Please tell us a little about yourself. Where you live? What you do?

I live in West Chester, Pennsylvania and I’m a student at the university there. I like travelling, Chuck Palahniuk, modern art and photography, snowboarding, horror films and cookies.

Please write 100 words on why you think you were chosen, why you want to go on this trip, and what your expectations are from the expedition:

I was chosen for this trip at the last minute, but I presented with his opportunity because of my interests in international affairs and compassion for the future of our planet and its inhabitants. I want to go on this trip because it is a chance to be apart of a group that is striving to bring awareness to global environmental issues. I hope that this trip will connect me with people from across the world, and that I will be able to make a difference with the skills and knowledge that I will glean from this expedition.

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Name: Eric Fang
Age: 30
Nationality: Chinese
Country of residence: P. R. China
Company: Keum Jung Akzo Nobel Peroxides Ltd
Occupation: Sales Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Honest, warm-hearted, inflexible-tough, lots of interesting, careless

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Trust, love and freedom

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Beijing, Shanghai, Vancouver, Cancun

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Cooking, fishing

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Abraham Lincoln: I love his speech “a divided house cannot stand”

Forest Gump (role in “forest Gump”): the responsibility and consistency.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

With average temperatures across china predicted to rise 3-4ºC by the end of last century, yields of three staple crops (rice, wheat and maize) are predicted to fall by over a fifth. The impact of climate change in china is expected to be considerable. The summer and winter become longer while spring and autumn is become shorter. I think we now more and more depend on the climate. We are the part of world and we should take good care of our earth, ocean, land and climate.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

For me, I think we should use more recycle material. Use low oil consumption car. Decrease use electric and save energy.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

We resolve problem together as one team. Help each other enjoy the expedition and let it become true as one life time trip.

Know each other and get ideas about life, other important things.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I come from China and work for Akzo Nobel now. I was just marriage and no kid. I think the family is most important so I will take care of my parents when they are old and need to be tended. I also want to have more kids but in china, people only allow to have one. I hope I am a good son and brother. I wish I will be a good husband and father.

I have ever been to Canada, Mexico, Holland and France. Of course I have been to most cities in China while I work as a sales manager for eight years.

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Name: Eric Olson
Age: 55
Nationality: American
Country of residence: USA
Company: Oliver Wyman
Occupation: Strategic Leadership Consultant

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Artistic, adventurous, curious, committed, purposeful

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Wife, daughter, people with a sense of humor

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Bhutan as a place / Barcelona as a city

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Cooking, camp setup/takedown

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Sir Ernest Shackleton - he led his shipwrecked expedition crew of 27 men to safety in Antarctica.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I live in Los Angeles, and our battles with climate change center around the tremendous amount of pollution that is created by our auto-centric way of life.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

The corporate leaders who are my firm’s clients are more interested in the topic of corporate responsibility for sustainable life than the specific issue of climate change. I am helping to develop our firm’s POV on leading in a green world.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

I am grateful to my firm for selecting me for this expedition, and I hope to get a compelling story from this trip that will make them want to increase their involvement in the issue of corporate leadership and sustainability. And I hope to get an adventurous but not catastrophic crossing of Drake’s Passage!

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

That I carried on my grandfather’s and father’s tradition of giving a significant portion of our professional life to helping others. I spent 20 years leading non-profits, and I’d like the footprint of my last 20 years to be the change that I help lead in corporate life, especially when it comes to the issue of global sustainability.

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Name: Erkan Berk
Age: 27
Nationality: Danish-Turkish
Country of residence: Denmark
Company: De Gule Side A/S Aarhus
Occupation: Salesman

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Open-minded, people person, large-minded, helpful and reliable.

Name three things that you cannot live without:

My wife, my daughter and friends/family in general.

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

New York City, USA.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I am very helpful and I can motivate those who need might have a bad day. Beside that I can cook and are willing to learn.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Musata Kemal Atatürk. He is definitely a great leader in my mind, because of his way to change a whole Turkish nation from being very conservative to a democratic society.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I am sad to read about the global warming, because it is not only a threat to us humans, but so many animals, such as the polar bear is suffering. We people should be aware of how we are living our lives. We are the answer to the problems.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

We have dropped one of our cars, and my wife are instead walking to work. We also air dry all our clothes and small things like this. That is what it takes to make a change. Simple things in life can do a lot for the next generation.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

First of all, this is a once in a life time chance for a guy like me. Therefore I am not that in to the pictures and penguins (these can be googled), but just the thought of me being a part of this expedition is such a huge opportunity, so I am sure, this will make me a stronger person with a leaders mind.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

A great husband, father, son and that is a “footprint” in itself. I am a winner, and my wife, daughter and family is a proof of that.

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Name: Eugen Schmidt
Age: 29
Nationality: Austrian
Country of residence: Austria
Company: Herold Business Data Gmbh
Occupation: Key Account Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Open-minded, committed, ambitious, interested, fair, energetic, serious and suffering from dyslexia (always mixing up 5 and 7) :-)

Name three things that you cannot live without:

First (eating, drinking, sleep), second (health, safety, financial security) and third (family, friends, sexual intimacy) levels of “Maslow’s hierarchy of needs” ;-)

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Venezuela – a beautiful and impressive country with many different places.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Windsurfing and blogging ;-) (I hope I’ll find something till the 12th of march)

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Now that I’ve devoted my attention to Ernest Shackleton I’m very impressed by his loyalty to his team and his enthusiasm. But in fact I’m more impressed by the thousands of volunteers working for (charity-) NGOs all over the world.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

It hasn’t impacted me personally now, but seeing burning parts of the rainforest in Venezuela or Austrian glaciers melting away shows that there’s an urgent need to think about the way we treat our environment.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I’m sure that there’s a need to do something and I hope that we’ll learn something about that on the trip.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins? Pictures of whales ;-) I hope to get to know new people from all over the world, learn how to work in a new international team and learn what we can do to help Antarctica (and the world as a whole). And certainly I hope that Antarctica impresses me the way I expect it to.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world? I’d like to be known as a good friend, partner, father and son. For being a team player and a guy you can count on. And for leaving the world a bit better than it was before.

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Name: Frank Bakkeren
Age: 39
Nationality: Dutch
Country of residence: The Netherlands
Company: Akzo Nobel
Occupation: Research & Development Manager

Describe yourself in 5 adjectives:

Sporting, perfectionist, respectful, easy-going, and committed

Name three things that you cannot live without:

My family, long hot showers, the morning newspaper with sports news

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

San Francisco

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

An outdated first-aid certificate, a decent cook

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Mahatma Gandhi. I like his quote “I have to follow my people.”

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I tend to believe that summer and winter times in the Netherlands are not anymore what they used to be.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Not really yet.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

An increasing awareness of how business and care for the environment and the climate can go together.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

A reliable and respectful friend, colleague and above-all father and husband.

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Name: Geert Huysmans
Age: 37
Nationality: Belgian
Country of residence: Belgium
Company: Coca-Cola
Occupation: NWEN environment manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Adventurous, honest, sporty, helpful, faithful

Name three things that you cannot live without:

My family, my friends and a good Belgian beer.

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

The Serengeti Park/ Ngorongoro crater

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I’m a very handy person and my environmental knowledge

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

I would like two highlight two people:

John F Kennedy, because his gifted talent to speak/present, the ability to influence people and his strong charisma.

Gandhi, because his statements and viewpoints to the society and the violence free protest to change the partition. E.g.: a technological society has two choices.

First it can wait until catastrophic failures expose systemic deficiencies distortion and self deceptions …

Secondly, a culture can provide social checks and balances to correct for systemic distortion prior to catastrophic failures.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

The climate is changing around us and that is a fact! Where I live I can observe a decrease in snow and ice days. More hot days/night (heat waves), spring coming earlier and more frequent heavy precipitation which result in local floods. The year average temperature is rising.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

If you read the IPCC reports on climate change you would immediately think in which world is my child going to live? Even if only a fraction would be true already big changes will happen in the near future to environment we live. I strongly believe we still have time to change but we have start NOW! Personally I try to live my life according to environmentally sound principles. Some examples: renovating my old house using different environmental friendly techniques, using my bike for the shorter distances, use of rain water …

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Via this mission I would like to create a different environmental angle to my work, which I could use later into trainings, strategies and communication to the different stakeholders. I really believe in creating a new mind set:”rethink the way you live or operate”

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I would like to be known as the person that was part of the group that created the new mind set: “rethink the way you live or operate” and an active member in the preservation of Antarctica after 2041.

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Name: Gil Reavill
Age: 54
Name of Company: Reavill-Zimmerman, Inc.
Position in Company: President
Hobbies/interests: Music, literature, movies, history, politics, wildlife, psychology

Please tell us a little about yourself. Where you live? What you do?

I am an author, screenwriter, journalist, collaborative writer and editor whose work has appeared in a variety of venues. As a ghost-writer, I’ve collaborated on projects with Terri Irwin, the wife of Steve Irwin (Steve & Me, published by Simon & Schuster in November 2006) as well as other authors. I’m also the author of a true-crime book, Aftermath, Inc., and a parenting book, Raising Our Athletic Daughters, about the benefits of sports participation for girls, written with my wife, the author Jean Zimmerman. My screenplay Dirty, a corrupt-cop drama starring Cuba Gooding, Jr., was released in 2006. I was born in Wisconsin and educated at University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Colorado. I live outside New York City with my wife and 16-year-old daughter.

Please write 100 words on why you think you were chosen, why you want to go on this trip, and what your expectations are from the expedition:

I am primarily interested in seeing Robert Swan in action, in learning his teachings regarding leadership, hearing about his experiences in the polar regions, and understanding his environmental philosophy. I also want hear him describe first-hand the signs of climate change in the Antarctic. I am interested in meeting the people on the expedition, to interact with them and experience them interacting with Robert. I look forward to experiencing the spectacular landscape, fascinating wildlife and unique polar environment. I view the expedition as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, for the people involved as well as Antarctica itself.

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Given name: Howard Gilmour
Age: 38
Nationality: South African
Country of residence: Australia
Company: Coca-Cola South Pacific
Occupation: Technical Manager, Stewardship

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Dedicated, energetic, self-assured, tenacious, accepting

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Christine, Grace and Aston (my wife and children)

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Sailing in the open sea

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica?

Yatchmaster qualified, I can also cook and clean.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Nelson Mandela and Gandhi – both for their ability to reconcile people through personal leadership and inspiration.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Experiencing water restriction where I currently live, Sydney Australia.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes. In my current role we are developing an environmental plan focused on operations. This is currently being expanded to become a sustainability plan and will include more of a customer and supplier focus.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

1. Explore, develop and implement a joint sustainability agenda with a major customer.

2. Leadership skills – ability to inspire a team.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

Legacy of positive person:

– Energy to inspire others to reach their potential,

– Developed and implemented a progressive sustainability plan,

– Raised confident children.

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Name: Ines Rupprecht
Age: 38
Nationality: German
Country of residence: Germany
Company: Coca-Cola
Occupation: Senior Manager Sport Assets

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Humorous, cooperative, optimistic, enthusiastic, caring

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Nutella for breakfast, nature/green around me especially flowers (orchids are my favorite), friends and family

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?:

Lake Atitlan in Guatemala

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Cooking (my Thai soup is quite good), sewing (any buttons loose?), my communication skills

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

No historic leader but street kids in Nicaragua I worked with were an inspiration to me. The life situations touched my heart and let me question what I always took for granted in my own life: a safe home, education, health care, good food and tap water of drinking quality.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

My awareness for climate change due to environmentally careless behavior grew when I was 22 years old. I have spent 9 months working in Latin America. While I was in Nicaragua I became seriously sick due to the poor water quality. The image of pure and cold tap water came to my mind again and again. This experience, the poverty and pollution in the country made me fundamentally think differently about how we use water and how I always took it for granted.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I try to save energy wherever possible to save resources and along the way my own money. Once I realized there were obvious things I could immediately do: like switching of all electronic devices when not in use, switch off any stand-by equipment, switch off the oven a few minutes earlier (the heat is still sufficient), reusing plastic bags for grocery shopping or even bring my own and so on.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

I am looking forward to broaden my limits and to live with a team spirit under difficult conditions. The expedition and surroundings of such a great nature will shape my senses and instincts which I have probably lost some of living in a big city. The trip will enrich my way of thinking and acting on a daily basis and positively influence my working skills as well. Once back at home I hope to inspire positively and influence people to reflect on their behavior and hopefully make a change towards a more environmental friendly living.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I would like to be known as a humorous person, great to spend time with, adventurous with an optimistic and positive approach. Caring for others and the environment.

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Name: Jackie Duff
Nationality: Scottish
Country of residence: UK
Company: Coca-Cola
Occupation: European Merchandise Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Glass is always half full (optimist), Celtic, committed, passionate and fun

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Sun, laughter and friends

Where is your favorite place / city visited so far?

Machu Pichu and Moreno Glacier

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Organizational skills, did a first aid course a few years ago, also happy to help with cooking.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Nelson Mandela: reason – his commitment to his cause.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Travel in South America 10 years ago had greatest impact especially Patagonia. Also more recently dramatic change in local weather conditions in UK show need for action.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes my travels in South America 10 years ago inspired me to make the western world aware of climate change – I have organized a number of charity events to raise awareness and funds for the charities.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Better understanding of issues facing our environment today so that I am better equipped to build awareness and action with key influencers in my work and personal life.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

Trying to make the world a better place today for the under privileged and tomorrow for future generations.

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Name: James Bray
Age: 39 (will be 40 prior to the expedition)
Nationality: American
Country of residence: USA
Company: Akzo Nobel
Occupation: General Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Passionate, driven, focused, serious, energetic

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Beside the obvious food, water and air answer, how about the following: bathroom items (toilet paper, toothbrush, etc.); people (family/friends); transportation to go places (these are not in order)

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?:

Maui, Hawaii (Cabo, Mexico a close second)

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I can’t say that I have cooking, first aid or IT skills that will be valuable on this trip. I hope that my energy and enthusiasm will be of value on this trip.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Probably not who most people would consider an historic leader but a leader who inspired me was Herb Brooks. Herb Brooks took a group of “average” hockey players and formed a team. His team achieved much more that anyone ever imaged was possible, winning the gold medal in the 1980 Winter Olympics. I was a kid during this time and remember how big of a “miracle” this was. As I grew up and listened to former players and coaches, it was Herb who led a group to the ultimate accomplishment.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I can think of two: one negative and one positive. From the negative side, the change in weather patterns has caused lower amounts of rainfall at my house. I like having a nice yard and, therefore, I water my grass. This has impacted me negatively because my water bill goes up. On the positive side, the change in weather patterns has allowed me to play golf more often with less rain-outs.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

The recent drought situations in the Southeastern USA have made me think that we all need to find a way to conserve water. When you drive by some of very large lakes in the south that are the water supply for major cities and see how empty they are, it doesn’t take long to realize that something needs to be done.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

I look forward to meeting, spending time and developing relationships with my fellow expeditioners.

I hope to learn about me! Get to know myself better (strengths and weaknesses) by living outside my comfort zone. Just turning 40 and need to spend time with “me” and see if I am happy with where I am in life.

I hope this expedition will enhance my leadership and teamwork skills.

I hope to utilize this expedition to elevate the planet to a higher level on our company’s business agenda.

I hope to appreciate the environmental challenges ahead and inspire me to educate, encourage and ensure environmentally responsible behaviors.

I hope to come back energized, inspired, passionate and ready for new challenges.

I hope to learn an enormous amount about myself and have my eyes opened regarding what we are doing to this planet and how everyone can pull together and help.

I hope to gain knowledge and a greater understanding of how to communicate and work with people from varied backgrounds and cultures.

I hope to come back and be able to represent Akzo Nobel and the 2041 group as a successful ambassador for sustainable leadership.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I would like to be known for someone who gave 100% in everything I did. Even if I do not succeed in something the first time, I am driven to keep striving until I succeed. When I leave this world, there are two things I want people to remember me for: integrity and respect. I hope to be thought of someone who had integrity and that was respected, as I try to pass on the same respect to people. I would also like to leave a “footprint” as one who liked to help people. Whether professionally or personal, I hope to have helped people all along their and my journey!

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Name: James Burnham
Age: 35
Nationality: British
Country of residence: England
Company: Climate Change Capital
Occupation: Marketing Communications Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Resourceful, adventurous, passionate, quirky, uncompromising

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Mental stimulation, freedom of expression, hope

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Donestia, the city by the sea

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Physical endurance, qualified first aider, curiosity

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

T.E. Lawrence for matching words with deeds; and displaying a cultural sensitivity and self awareness as uncommon today as it ever was. As the great man wrote:

“All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night in the dusty recesses of their minds wake in the day to find that it was vanity: but the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act out their dream with open eyes, to make it possible.”

How has climate change impacted you personally?

In the sense of being personally inconvenienced, experiencing an extreme weather event or having to change my behavior (other than voluntarily) climate change hasn’t really had an impact on me. I’m however one of a few, but growing number of people, who have been able to work for companies that recognize combating global warming is an economic opportunity as well as an environmental necessity.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

On a personal level I try to keep my environmental impact as low as possible. At work I spend a lot of my time promoting new markets for products and services that mitigate climate change.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

1. To communicate to the group that while the scale of the challenge is enormous; there is no time for depression or doubt. And that by acting now we can also build purposeful and rewarding lives for ourselves and others.

2. An opportunity to reflect and learn from the collective experience of the group

3. To get a better understanding of what “leadership” actually is

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

Just to be known as a positive person that achieved my potential and helped others do the same

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Name: Jean-Carlo Alves da Silva
Age: 17
Nationality: Dutch
Country of residence: Curacao, Netherlands Antilles
Organization: A-team , Amigu di Tera (Friends of the Earth)
Occupation: Student

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

smart, creative, dedicated, jolly, funny

Name three things that you cannot live without:

internet, my friends, writing

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

England, 21st world scout jamboree 2007

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Bright mind, good at solving problems

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Baden-Powell, the founder of scouting. He started a movement of young people, who followed the Scout’s law and lived by the Scout’s promise. It started with twenty boys on a experimental camp on Brownsea Island. 100 years later it’s the biggest teen movement in the world counting 28 million members all united by one world and one promise.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I live on an island where there is an oil refinery situated at the center of the island. Knowing that the gases produced by it on daily basis only contribute to global warming which has the effect of raising the sea level and our own island will be submerged. This is something really disturbing to live with.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes I have. I’ve always wanted to inspire people, I want to make people aware of the actual damage they’re causing to our planet; and my way of doing that will be through the Scouts.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

I hope to get more knowledge about global warming. I hope to experience it first hand, the damage we have done. And that way make a story to inspire other young people such as myself.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I would like to be known as a person that made a change, a person that stood up and fought for what he believed in. Coming from a small island in the Caribbean, people don’t expect much from you. And I want to change that I want to show everyone that no matter where you come from or where you were born everyone can make a change.

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Name: Joakim Carlén
Age: 38
Nationality: Swedish
Country of residence: Sweden
Company: Akzo Nobel
Occupation: R&D Department Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Enthusiastic, impatient, funny

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Friends, family

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

I have no particular favorite place, I more have a desire to see and experience new things.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I’m not an expert in any of the listed fields but I have basic training in first aid and cooking is one of my hobbies.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

I do not have a historic leader that has inspired me

How has climate change impacted you personally?

If the rainy and windy winters that we have had in the last years in Gothenburg are due to the climate change then the most obvious one is that I have not been able to do any cross-country skiing where I live for few years.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I’m trying to put the climate perspective into my work as R&D manager and steer the new products towards a more sustainable path. Personally I make an effort into buying good quality stuff that lasts longer and I try to find locally produced food so the transports are shorter.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

A good hands-on understanding of the effects that climate change has on Antarctica; good friendship with my fellow expedition members, inspiration that will change the way I think and act privately and professionally.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

This is a difficult one; I guess that I would like to be remembered as a good husband and father, and a man that left the world slightly better that it would have been without him.

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Name: Joanne Cornish
Age: 38
Nationality: British
Country of residence: UK
Company: Akzo Nobel
Occupation: Compliance Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

optimistic, passionate, adventurous, relaxed, spontaneous

Name three things that you cannot live without:

sense of humor, time to reflect, moisturiser

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Bali – that was 15 years ago and it was beautiful, truly an unspoilt paradise. I would like to go back to see how things have changed.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I have undertaken Mountain Leader training, and although it was summer training, I imagine that some of the skills are transferable. Other than that I have a first aid certificate and I’m a reasonable cook.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

I cannot think of any leaders who have particularly inspired me. I can think of lots of great people who have done great things but none who have inspired me personally.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

In the UK we don’t seem to get the same snowfall that we did 20 or 30 years ago, summers seem to be wetter and cooler, and winters seem to be less extreme. Almost as if there is a leveling out of the seasons. The wetter summers lead to more flooding, which I fell victim to three times in the space of two years.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Probably just the usual suspects – reduce, re-use, recycle – using re-usable bags rather than plastic ones, shopping locally as much as possible, checking country of origin on food products, buying seasonal (my pet hate is seeing asparagus and strawberries in the shops in winter!!), using low energy light bulbs, turning things off when not in use, buying unpackaged products, recycling as much waste as possible, recycling books, clothes and magazines via charity shops.

When I chose my last car I selected one that was on the lower end of the carbon emissions, although have to admit that it was as much to do with the level of tax I would pay as the emissions themselves.

Increasingly I feel the need to do something significant, but don’t know what.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Every challenge you undertake makes you stronger and so I am hoping to come back a stronger more focused person. I also hope to come back better educated on the environment and the impact that we are having on it, inspired and motivated by the leadership program, and better equipped to make a difference in our business.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I would like to be known as someone who inspired, encouraged and supported others to achieve their true potential.

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Name: John Luck
Age: old enough
Nationality: American
Country of residence: USA
Organization: Freelance
Occupation: Photojournalist

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Five words are not enough (hey, that’s already five words)

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Strong coffee, vintage black and white movies, grim existential novels

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Canyonlands, Utah. Kayaking down the Green River, en route to the confluence of the Green and Colorado rivers as they carve their way into the Grand Canyon, there are no power lines visible, no trace of human presence, you see millions of years of geologic history etched in towering rock walls around you that hem you in. Nothing like that to make one feel small and insignificant—not that I need a trip down the green river to feel small and insignificant, of course.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to

Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

The ability to subtly transfer blame for accidents or mistakes from myself onto others

Good food hoarding skills

Knowing how to turn raisins, moldy bread, and warm water into a pretty tasty adult beverage should the rum supply run out

Having some knowledge of which side of a band-aid to apply to a wound

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

My father. He grew up during the great depression, fought in some of the worst battles of World War II, and emerged from that experience to go on with his life and be a decent, gentle human being

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I worked with a volunteer group in New Orleans after hurricane Katrina, and saw (and experienced) first-hand—not on TV, not in a newspaper, what weather pattern changes, combined with human hubris, can do to put us in our place. A recent return trip to the Mississippi gulf coast several months ago would indicate that no lessons were learned.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what

Well, I’ve replaced every single light bulb in my home with CF bulbs, so now I’m basking in the (blue-green) glow of a job well done, in spite of the fact that now I feeling like I’m living in a Stalin-era public restroom.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

I hope that through my photography and writing that I’ll be able to tell people who will never have this incredible opportunity to see Antarctica firsthand, what the continent of Antarctica, our planet’s last best wild place, is really like, and as harsh and forbidding as it is, that it is a fragile place as well. I would also hope that I could help others to capture images that, to paraphrase Finley Peter Dunne, will “afflict the comfortable,” that is, those who think that nothing humans do could possibly harm a continent as vast as Antarctica.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

That against all common sense and despite the advice of others, that I kept trying…

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Name: John Rowland
Age: 33
Nationality: American
Country of residence: United States of America
Company: Akzo Nobel
Occupation: Senior Research Chemist

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Pragmatic, approachable, patient, intuitive and conscientious

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Coffee, friends and conversation

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Kauai

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I have experience cooking on a large scale (college dining hall). I am also pretty good at fixing (and breaking) mechanical equipment.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

This may sound a bit clichéd, but Ernest Shackleton. I cannot imagine keeping a team together for as long as he did under those conditions. All the while maintaining safety, order and perspective of the task at hand.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I think the current situation of global warming/climate change has impacted the way I think about energy usage and supply. If we, as a global community, are going to address green house gas emissions with its impact on climate change, then we must have a reasonable and clear set of goals that can be achieved.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

My biggest effort in understanding my role in climate change involves putting my energy usage into real numbers. Energy use is one area where individuals have control and can make immediate changes. Beyond that, I have felt the urge to understand some of the additional features of climate change that we can affect.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins? :

Perspective. I am looking forward to discussing the roles of governments, corporations and individuals have in developing sustainable solutions and policies. I am also looking forward to meeting other individuals committed to Robert Swan’s 2041 organization.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I once had a professor that said, “As a scientist, you read science, you write science and you do science. So, 2/3 of science is communication.” I would like to be known as a communicator.

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Name: Joff Sharpe
Age: 46 (at time of expedition)
Nationality: British
Country of residence: UK
Company: European Directories
Occupation: Human Resources for private equity businesses

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

family-centric, well-traveled, adventurous, entrepreneurial, determined

Name three things that you cannot live without:

shelter, food, water

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?:

Gunung Mulu National Park, Sarawak

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Commensurate with 10 years in the military. Some mountaineering experience but a long time ago!

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Sir David Stirling, founder of Britain’s Special Air Service regiment. He created an innovative organization within a very rigid structure (the British army during WWII) that promoted entrepreneurialism and encouraged soldiers to excel as individuals but also to entrust themselves to others who shared their commitment.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Over a period of 2-3 years I lived in the rainforests of Borneo and Central America and saw extensive logging destruction and what appeared to be consequent seasonal climate disruption – although it’s hard to be sure the two were connected.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Drive a Prius(!) and try to keep domestic energy usage to the minimum. Recycle.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Help the European Directories team to have a great experience. Personally, reconnect with an adventurous lifestyle that I last enjoyed years ago and, in doing so, give a measure of encouragement to my kids.

What would you like to be known for in life?

What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world? I recently researched my ancestry back to about 1780. It appears I come from generations of school teachers, farmers, army officers and people who, quite literally, kept the trains running on time. There were all conservative, diligent, serious-minded people who gradually improved their station in life, in spite of premature deaths, wars and economic depression. None took a risk or a gamble beyond the necessary and this is possibly why I am not rich and famous. However, this is also why I don’t sweep a factory floor for a living. So at the age of 46 I have a horrible feeling I will form part of the continuum. But maybe my descendants in 200 years time will not judge my footprints too harshly.

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Given name: Karin Sanne
Age: 34
Nationality: Swedish
Country of residence: Sweden
Company: Akzo Nobel
Occupation: Eco-efficiency specialist

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Well-structured, good planner, efficient, purposeful, tired towards evening

Name three things that you cannot live without:

My two sons and my husband

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Not an easy question. Maybe Langkawi in Malaysia.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I don’t know, maybe sew by hand.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

I have never thought about this before but if I have to say one I say Nelson Mandela.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I drive an ethanol-fueled car for example.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I’m working every day with environmental issues within Akzo Nobel. Changes and improvements in a large company are much more significant than personal changes, even if they also are very important of course.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

A lot of new experiences and a big adventure.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I hope I have many more years to work and live before I have to give this answer.

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Name: Kinga Horvath
Age: 44
Nationality: Hungarian
Country of residence: The Netherlands
Company: De Telefoongids B.V.
Occupation: Senior Account Manager Named Accounts

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Inquisitive, fast to learn, perfectionist, hardworking, friendly

Name three things that you cannot live without:

My family and friends, a professional challenge, variety

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Apart from my native city Boedapest: Amsterdam and Paris.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

My cooking is quite ok, however, tends to be for some too spicy (simply Hungarian).

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Gandhi: achieve the impossible without violence.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

Quite honestly, as I am living in the city most of the time I do not have a day-to-day personal experience of it. However, The Netherlands is very much exposed to the dangers of the smelting ice and the rise of the sea level.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I definitely have, I am trying not to contribute to any more pollution in my own micro-environment on a day-to-day basis.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

Probably how little you need for basic survival. The fascinating power and beauty of nature. Discovering my personal limits. How wonderful a landscape can be without any structure created by humans?

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

Someone who did her best to be a good wife, mother, friend and employee at the same time and hopefully succeeded. Someone with principles.

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Name: Knut Robberstad

Knut tends to forget how fun skiing is until the first day of every winter season. He really, really likes the mountains and wants everyone to feel the same way. In addition to being a freelance writer, he teaches writing at the Norwegian Creative College while dreaming of Antarctica. Knut whistles when he’s happy and lives in Stavanger, Norway.

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Name: Kyle O’Donoghue
Age: 28
Nationality: South African
Country of residence: South Africa
Company: KOD Productions
Occupation: Documentary Film Maker

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Alive,moving,searching,passionate,airhead.

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Water, air and food

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Ambudi Letra, a tiny town on the tip of a Peninsula in Madagascar (oh! and of course Antarctica… Paradise Bay is hard to beat.)

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Mountaineering skills, map reading, playing the guitar to while away long days in a hut and I speak Afrikaans which might be useful if we met some South Africans.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Nelson Mandela. I’ve met him twice and he is truly a gift to humanity. Compassionate and wise and forgiving. What more is there to say?

How has climate change impacted you personally?

It’s made me feel more depressed with the slightest change in the weather. Its made me feel angry when I have seen people suffering in the third world as resources dwindle. Its also given me hope that we can all come together and fight climate change regardless of nationality, race or creed.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Yes, felt the need and changed my lifestyle to limit my impact, but somehow feel that it takes more than that.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

A sense of solidarity and common purpose and the feeling that we can find a new path to walk together. I also hope that people will go away feeling extremely privileged at the opportunity that has been afforded to them.

What would you like to be known for in life?What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I’d like to be known as a talented film maker who reached more than just the converted. I would strive to have as little impact as possible in my daily routine. I’d like to be known as a person who was fun to be around but also made people feel that a different way of living and consuming was also possible. My personal footprint should be no more than an echo after a ‘woop’ of joy at climbing the Nose on El Capitan….(one day!)

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Name: Lauren
Age: 37
Nationality: American
Country of residence: USA
Company: Oliver Wyman
Occupation: North American Director Assistant (DA) Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Expressive, fun, loyal, open-minded, connector (sorry, that’s a noun)

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Sleep, cheese, and the unconditional love of my dog, boo.

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Zermatt, Switzerland – there’s nothing like opening your eyes first thing in the morning and seeing the Matterhorn out your window.

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

I used to be an actress/singer so a show-tune sing-a-long is never out of the question. I also play a mean game of charades. I am an experienced hiker; a fan of the ‘rest step’ which I’d be happy to teach.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Leonardo da Vinci. In our current age where the true ‘renaissance man’ is virtually extinct, we rarely pause to marvel at how one person was so adept at so many things. I wonder how the modern world would react to someone who didn’t specialize in just one field, but in fact mastered so much more. Interestingly, he spent significant time researching concentrated solar power. He was way ahead of his time.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I can’t help but notice that in the past few years the scale and frequency of tragedy caused by acts of nature has increased dramatically. The tsunami in Indonesia, hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, the cyclone in Bangladesh and the unusual winter tornado outbreaks in the southern us…just to name a recent few. Here in New York, I see less snow than I am supposed to, and the hottest summer days seem oppressive. In California, where I lived nearly my whole life until 2005, the storms I hear about seem unusually frequent and intense.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I have an uneasy sense that there is something going on in the world that I can’t control…at least not alone. I recycle, and I do feel good not having a car since I live in Manhattan, but I also feel like there is so much more I can do…I just don’t know what it is. I feel a responsibility to do something. It nags at me and I feel guilty that I am not doing more.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

The more I talk about this wonderful opportunity to go to Antarctica, the more I realize that not many people have been paying attention to what’s going on with our climate. Sure, they hear the news segments and they saw ‘An Inconvenient Truth’, but I don’t think any of it has really sunk in. I want to find a way to bring the message home so that it will resonate. I want to be able to ask all the questions I have always had a curiosity about.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

I want to be known as someone who lives life to the fullest; someone who isn’t afraid to live life unconventionally, to follow her dreams as they evolve over time…all the while demonstrating passion, commitment and a sense of adventure. I want to be known as someone who has consistently searched for her destiny, and who isn’t afraid to embrace change to fulfill it. I hope that I am always seen as a loyal and trustworthy friend.

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Name: Lenny Choi
Age: 37
Nationality: Korean
Country of residence: Korea
Company: Shinsegae
Occupation: Corporate Social Responsibility Manager

Describe yourself in five adjectives:

Enthusiastic, faithful, fair, balanced, persevering

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Coffee, music, athletics

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Pokhara in Nepal

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Cooking, if there are enough food material

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Well… Erwin Rommel who was a general in the German army. Just I like his character.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

I’ll answer that in the next question.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

I don’t have air conditioner, because I don’t want to be a burden to the global warming. There is a period during the summer that I can’t stand, the hottest; I have noticed those hot days have been increasing each year. From now on, I’ll never buy the air conditioner.

What would you like to be known for in life? What would be your personal ‘footprint’ on the world?

Well it’s a problem awaiting solution, I’ll think about it.

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Name: Luke Francis
Age: 37
Nationality: British
Country of residence: England
School: Wakefield grammar school foundation
Occupation: Assistant Head and geography specialist

Describe yourself in 5 adjectives:

Big, balanced, compassionate, adventurous and artistic.

Name three things that you cannot live without:

Parmesan, Bob Dylan’s Blonde on Blonde album and red wine.

Where is your favorite place / city you have visited so far?

Lindenberg Mountains in Greenland, Cape Wrath (northern Scotland) and Bardsey island (north Wales)

What skills do you have that could be valuable on an expedition to Antarctica? e.g. IT, cooking, first aid, etc.

Like to think I can cook, hold outdoor first aid qualifications. Geographical knowledge.

Which historic leader is an inspiration to you and why?

Brigadier John Nicholson, his ability to inspire others.

How has climate change impacted you personally?

My local area has experienced higher rainfall and severe flooding in the last two years.

Have you felt the need to do something about climate change? If so, what?

Educate school pupils about climate change and how to save energy.

What do you hope to get out of the expedition other than pictures of penguins?

A picture of an albatross! The inspiration and motiv