Exploring a Mindset and the Future
Young Cantabrians recently learned the skills and mindset the early Antarctic explorers used.
The Trust’s second Explorer Conference in Christchurch (NZ) hosted a one-day gathering of over 100 students from 11 secondary schools. Christchurch Mayor Phil Mauger opened the Conference by explaining the strong historic and current connection Christchurch has to Antarctica.
Conference MC and Inspiring Explorer Ngawai Clendon was a member of last year’s Inspiring Explorers Expedition™ to the Ross Sea. She had struggled with self-doubt, but said learning and applying the ‘Explorer Mindset’ changed that.
“I learned how often our own minds can be our biggest barrier, holding us back from things we are capable of,” Ngawai said.
“Standing here as the MC of this Conference has pushed me well outside my comfort zone. But l have leaned into my ‘Explorer Mindset’ to trust my own voice and show up authentically.”
Keynote Speaker and Inspiring Explorer Kelsey Waghorn was guiding at Whakaari/White Island during the 2019 volcanic eruption and suffered serious injuries.
She joined the 2023 Inspiring Explorers Expedition™ to South Georgia determined not to let fear define her.
“The expedition taught me I was braver than I had ever believed,” she said. “I am now passionate about inspiring others and sharing the message that people can overcome even the most impossible challenges.”
Hands on workshops led by Inspiring Explorers™ alumni and Trust staff were built around the ‘Explorer Mindset’ qualities of curiosity, innovation, resilience, teamwork, and leadership.
Hands on workshops led by Inspiring Explorers™ alumni and Trust staff were built around the ‘Explorer Mindset’ qualities of curiosity, innovation, resilience, teamwork, and leadership.
Antarctic Heritage Trust Executive Director Francesca Eathorne ended the day asking the students to say ‘yes’ to challenges and to unlock their ‘Explorer Mindset’.
“It doesn’t have to be going to Antarctica, but step out of your comfort zone, to see where it takes you.”
Students left with a unanimous agreement the ‘Explorer Mindset’ is relevant today.
“I think the ‘Explorer Mindset’ is relevant today because the world is constantly changing and having an open and adaptable mind will really benefit you. Also, the idea of being open to trying new experiences and stepping out of your comfort zone is relevant today because many people miss out on cool things because they stick to what they’re used to, and you get more out of life by being open,” said one student who attended the Explorer Conference.
Thank you to our generous supporters and donors who made the Explorer Conference possible: Rātā Foundation, Sir Angus Tait Trust, Tait Foundation, USA 304th Air Squadron, ChristchurchNZ, and donors to the Inspiring Explorers™ Fund.
