Support my participation in an expedition to Antarctica

To study climate change impacts with a team of exceptional women

I’ve been given an extraordinary opportunity to participate in an Antarctic expedition focused on environmental research and conservation. As part of a team of exceptional women – oceanographers, marine biologists, artists, engineers, divers, social scientists, and more – I will take part in a 24-day expedition to the Falkland Islands, South Georgia Island, Elephant Island, the Western Antarctic Peninsula, and the Polar Circle aboard a Polar Class 6 vessel. This transformative voyage, organized by Sea Women Expeditions, will focus on women’s leadership in STEAM, environmental science, and Indigenous knowledge.

Why Antarctica? And why study seaweed there?

Antarctica is one of the most pristine and fragile environments on Earth. The effects of climate change are profoundly evident there, and the research conducted on this expedition will provide crucial insights into the health of our planet.

Seaweeds are remarkable for their wide range of environmental benefits, nutritional value, and diverse industrial applications. Despite Antarctica's harsh environment, research indicates that seaweeds are present and ecologically important in coastal areas and in some deeper waters. While significant research has been conducted, many aspects remain understudied. I would coordinate my participation in this expedition with some of the world’s leading seaweed scientists through my work with the Global Seaweed Coalition.

With your support, I’ll take on this challenge – providing leadership mentoring, communicating our observations, and helping channel the evidence gathered into impactful policy recommendations.

About me

As an international economic development professional, founder of my own business, and senior advisor to the Global Seaweed Coalition, I bring experience spanning multilateral institutions and the public, private, academic, and non-profit sectors to my sustainability work. I have designed and led strategic global initiatives across a wide range of sectors and themes, including seaweed and aquaculture, food systems and food security, governance, and engagement of marginalized and vulnerable groups. Giving back is important to me, and to do that, I serve on several non-profit boards, including for a theater company, and help channel education grants to women from developing countries. Having visited over 75 countries across four continents, helping advance knowledge of Antarctica and beyond would be a dream come true.

How you can help

Participating in this expedition is expensive – over $40,000 – with the bulk of that cost being the $25,500 for the berth. Other significant costs include gear and insurance. I aim to finance about 20 to 25 percent of these costs myself and am seeking help to cover the remainder.

Your generous contributions will directly support my participation in this scientific endeavor.

By investing in my journey, you will be supporting Antarctic seaweed research, ocean conservation, women’s STEAM leadership, Indigenous collaboration, and climate stewardship.

Every contribution will help, whether it is $20, $200, or more. Please give what you can and share my campaign with colleagues, networks, and friends.

I will thank every contributor in my communications from Antarctica.

I am deeply grateful for your support and belief in my mission. Please join me on this incredible journey by donating to my GoFundMe campaign.

Thank you for your generosity and support!