Randburg matriculant returns from Antarctic expedition
Chloe Diedericks-Boudouris said learning about the work researchers do has given her a hunger to learn more about conservation.
After an exhilarating journey to the icy landscapes of Antarctica, Randburg-based matriculant Chloe Diedericks-Boudouris has returned home filled with unforgettable memories and valuable experiences from her once-in-a-lifetime expedition.
“When I saw my name come up the night I found out I was selected, I burst into tears. It was such a surreal experience, trying to wrap my head around the fact that I was going to Antarctica,” she recounted, reflecting on her initial reaction to being chosen for the expedition.
“I found out about the opportunity through one of my mom’s friends who sent us the link to enter. I first thought that the opportunity was too good to be true, but I’m so grateful that I entered,” she added.
Her journey, which began from Johannesburg to Cape Town on December 5, marked the start of her incredible adventure.
“When I landed in Antarctica, I started taking a video the second we were about to walk onto the runway to capture the experience of stepping out onto the ice. I remember being in awe at the beauty and majesty of the continent and how ‘otherworldly’ it looked,” reminisced Diedericks-Boudouris.
During her time in Antarctica, she contributed to various activities aimed at learning about the Antarctic environment. “The entire trip was incredible and it’s difficult to pick a highlight, but some of the highlights were walking through the brilliant blue Antarctic ice tunnels, helping ACDC Dynamics install one of the first solar power systems on the continent, and doing a midnight polar fundraising run for SANCCOB where I completed 21km on the ice,” she said.
Reflecting on the significance of the expedition, she expressed a newfound passion for environmental conservation. “Having been in Antarctica and being exposed to the researchers and learning about the work that they do has given me a hunger to learn more about conservation and the environment,” she explained.
Returning home, Diedericks-Boudouris developed a new outlook on the power she has as an individual. “The expedition opened my eyes to the fact that just because you don’t see the impact you’re making doesn’t mean you aren’t making a difference. If every person just made a small change, it would go so far towards saving our planet.”
As she shares her experiences with her community, Diedericks-Boudouris continues to inspire others to embrace opportunities for growth and adventure. “I want people to remember that it takes one spark to start a fire,” she said. “Be the example. Be the spark that starts a revolution.”
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