My Antarctic expedition for climate justice, ocean science & women’s leadership

What happens in Antarctica does not stay in Antarctica.

In February 2026, I will travel there as part of a scientific expedition. I will contribute to the research taking place in the field, support climate-focused work, and co-lead a policy working group exploring how polar science connects to climate and ocean governance.

My work sits at the intersection of climate justice, human rights and women’s leadership. Antarctica is not only a place of extraordinary ecosystems. It is also a space where women have historically been excluded from exploration and polar decision-making. That is changing, but not fast enough.

This journey allows me to combine field contribution, climate research, communications and policy analysis in one place. I am fundraising to help cover the costs of taking part and to support the work that will continue before, during and after the expedition.

About the expedition

The expedition will take place from 14 February to 10 March 2026, travelling to the Southern Ocean and the Weddell Sea, regions on the frontline of climate change where warming waters and shifting ice are reshaping marine ecosystems.

Alongside other women participating in scientific and creative work, I will contribute to climate and ocean research in the field, including snorkelling and cold-water sampling. The experience is designed to combine field research, leadership development and public communication, with a focus on strengthening women’s participation in polar science and decision-making.

For me, this is not simply about travelling to Antarctica. It is about grounding my policy and communications work in lived experience and contributing meaningfully to research that informs climate and ocean governance.

Why this matters

Antarctica plays a critical role in regulating global climate systems. Changes in sea ice, ocean temperature and marine ecosystems have consequences far beyond the polar region.

At the same time, access to polar research and exploration has historically been shaped by inequality. Expanding women’s participation strengthens the diversity of perspectives informing science and governance.

Through this expedition, I aim to:

How you can help

This expedition is self-funded. The total cost of participation is approximately 15,000 €, covering expedition fees, travel to and from Antarctica, safety training, specialist polar equipment, and the tools needed to contribute meaningfully to climate and ocean research in the field.

In addition to logistical costs, there is significant preparation and follow-up work involved. Time is needed before the expedition to prepare research contributions and policy work, and afterwards to translate field experience into thoughtful public communication and policy-relevant reflection.

Your support will help cover:

My goal is to raise 15,000 € to make this participation possible without financial strain. Every contribution, whether large or small, directly supports climate research, women’s leadership in polar spaces, and careful, considered public communication about Antarctica’s relevance to our shared future.

If you are not in a position to donate, sharing this page or following the journey on LinkedIn also makes a real difference.

Thank you

Thank you for being here.

If you’d like to follow updates and reflections from the expedition, I’ll be sharing them on my LinkedIn page. https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherine-callens-956127/

I’m grateful for any support, whether through donating, sharing this page, or simply staying connected.