Nowhere is the impact of climate change more visible than in Antarctica. As ice melts and ecosystems shift, this remote continent stands as a powerful warning - and a call to action.
Dr Lynda Donaldson saw this firsthand as part of the Homeward Bound Expedition, a global leadership programme for women in STEMM. Supported by the FINDRA Foundation, Lynda travelled to Antarctica equipped with FINDRA kit designed to perform in extreme conditions while reflecting our shared commitment to sustainability.
In this blog, she shares her experience on the ice - and why women’s leadership is vital in tackling the climate crisis.
Please tell everyone where you are based and what you do!
I am originally from the outskirts of Glasgow. Having zig-zagged around the country for studies and work, I now live in Ely in Cambridgeshire. I am a Conservation Scientist which means I conduct research to understand threats to our environment and the species that rely on it, and help find solutions to prevent or reverse species declines. Much of my focus is on birds and wetland habitats.
Can you tell us about your recent trip to Antarctica - what made you decide to take part in the excursion?
I visited Antarctica as part of the Homeward Bound programme. This is a global initiative for women and non-binary people with a background in STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths and Medicine), aiming to increase the voice and visibility of those of us working in this area and who wish to help lead the world towards a more sustainable future. The programme is made up of an online component, which I did between 2023 and 2024. The final element was the opportunity to meet with others who were part of my cohort, as well as other alumni from the programme who hadn’t yet had the chance to meet in person. For one final time (at least for now) this was to Antarctica; an environment that puts our leadership skills and training to the test, and which enables us to experience first-hand a location that is acutely affected by climate warming, hence inspiring us to act to make a difference.
Can you tell us what it was like day to day on the trip?
We had a busy schedule for each day, but key to being in the Antarctic environment is the ability to remain adaptable to sudden changes in the programme! We had a mixture of plenaries, symposiums and workshops either in the morning or afternoon most days; often these were interrupted by the sight of a whale outside or the passing of amazing icebergs, which thankfully the speakers were understanding of! We had surprisingly good weather, so we were able to disembark the ship just about every day of the trip. We were split into groups and would board small zodiac boats to enable us either to land, or cruise around closer to shore if we were unable to land due to the conditions. After dinner there was the chance to join additional workshops, often run by participants. We would then have the option of relaxing in the lounge, working on our collaborative art project, or could take advantage of the calm evenings, walk round the deck of the ship, look for wildlife, and be further absorbed by the ever-changing colours as the slight darkness creeped in around us.
How do you prepare yourself for an expedition such as this, did you do any training?
We were in an incredibly isolated part of the world, but we were on board a ship with a very experienced crew and all the facilities we would need for the duration. This was the 8th time that Homeward Bound had visited Antarctica and so they made sure all participants knew exactly what to bring and what to expect. The packing list certainly helped me out, as did the knowledge of those who had been before or had experience of working in polar regions. Some of the landings were more physical than others, but there were always optional elements, which meant the expedition was accessible for everyone.
You were at sea for 15 days - how did this affect you, both mentally and physically?
I have worked and travelled to many remote environments before for long periods, but I had never spent significant amounts of time on a ship before - the most time I had spent at sea up to this point was a couple of days on sailing boats. I personally found the confines of the ship the biggest challenge, as I do appreciate my own space at times and value the chance to go for long walks when I can; neither of which was really possible during our time away! Many of the participants still factored in exercise, including organising yoga classes on deck and even running around deck when the water was calm enough. It was very inspiring to see how others managed to get around such challenges and simply adapted their routine to a slightly different environment. We also had a wellbeing officer on board who was part of the Homeward Bound faculty and briefed us prior to the voyage on what to expect, how we might be challenged, and how we could best look after ourselves.
In terms of climate change, what learnings did you gain from both the environments that you were in and the people that you shared the journey with?
We did witness the changing climate before our eyes: it rained, portions of icebergs were crashing into the seas around us, there are noticeable changes to penguin populations. Before visiting I was aware of the impact that changes in Antarctica could have on the rest of the world, and vice versa. But once there and I witnessed the vastness of the continent, this fact felt all the more severe. It was refreshing to see that despite all the challenges facing our world today, that wild places do still exist, and can do well when the right approach is taken to preserving it. Those who work and visit the continent put every effort into preserving it, adhering to strict guidance put in place to try and ensure Antarctica remains as wild as it can be. Visiting the continent with 123 other women working to protect such places was an incredible experience and a valuable opportunity to absorb knowledge from all aspects of STEMM which I normally would not have the chance to do. We share a common goal and the power of so many of us getting together to work out what we can do together to make our world more sustainable cannot be underestimated! Around 70 collaborative projects were formed while on the ship, so it’s really just the beginning of what we can do together.
Our audience are keen outdoor enthusiasts and have a vested interest in protecting our ecosystems, is there something that you wish to convey to everyone about the condition of our planet and what we can do to change its trajectory?
It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the challenges facing our planet, but that doesn’t mean that it is too late for us to act and do something about it. Even small acts can make a difference, we just need enough of us to commit to that. When we work together, significant changes are more achievable.
And is there a piece of advice that stands out that you have received?
The expedition manager (Claudia) would tell us before and after each day that we followed plan A. No matter how many times the programme changed, it was Plan A. It was a subtle reminder that we should always remember this is Planet A, there is no Planet B.
The Antarctic is a fascinating ecosystem, not likely to be experienced by many of us. How did it feel to be in this remarkable environment and what was the highlight?
Totally surreal! Before I went, I didn’t feel like I was really going, once there I didn’t feel like I was there, and once back I couldn’t believe I was there – you get the idea! My senses were on overdrive the whole time – such unfamiliar scenes at every turn. Remote, quiet, still – there really is nowhere else on earth like it. It is almost impossible to pick a single highlight, though I certainly won’t ever forget some of the very close encounters we had with inquisitive humpback whales, especially when on the (rather small!) zodiac boats where we were basically on their level.
Does the outdoors play a role in your life outside of an adventure like this?
Absolutely! I live to be outside as much as possible, and I love to travel. I feel most grounded (literally) and calm when in the outdoors, whatever the weather. It’s one of my main drivers for working in conservation - I want to ensure we protect our wild spaces and the wildlife within.
How do you find balance between endeavours such as this and life’s other responsibilities? i.e. work and family?
It was a challenge to juggle the planning, prep, and trip itself around work and other commitments. I knew that the more that I put in, the more I would get out, but it was difficult to draw the line between rest and getting involved in the next idea or collaboration. But this is what the training in leadership offered by Homeward Bound can help with. I admire the fact that their model of leadership considers leading self as well as others, and recognises that looking after yourself is a key part of good leadership. Often women struggle to meet all the demands of family life with work and career progression; thankfully this is increasingly recognised, although there is still a way to go to dealing with this obstacle across society.
Do you find that nature has a positive impact on your wellbeing and mental health?
Definitely. There is evidence to support this, and I have no doubt this is true for me. A short walk in nature can work wonders to clear my head, reset and gain focus. It is important that people from all walks of life have access to green spaces and can glean the benefits of time in the outdoors. We need to protect and restore areas for nature as much as we can, we can’t afford to keep losing them.
Is there anyone who inspired your love of nature and passion for climate action?
It would be difficult for me to avoid any mention of David Attenborough! I grew up watching his programmes; absorbed by his storytelling and captured by footage of wildlife and amazing landscapes, which then inspired my passion for conservation and desire for travel and adventure.
When did you first discover FINDRA?
I received a recommendation from a previous Homeward Bound voyager! I was very taken by FINDRA’s focus on sustainability and getting women into the outdoors, which align directly with my values and much of the focus of the trip. And of course, originating from my homeland of Scotland is a much-added bonus.
FINDRA were very proud to support your trip, providing you with layers for warmth, but what else makes up your equipment on a trip like this?
I was actually amazed at how little you really need! Thankfully the ship provided the thick waterproof jackets and strong boots which saved some packing space for the journey, and also helped them adhere to strict biosecurity measures during and after all landings. Comfy clothes for the ship were a must, plus books and music for that down time and to help rest the mind. Suncream and a good pair of sunglasses were key because of the strong rays and reflection – thanks to Govan Optometrists in Fife for supplying me with some great sunglasses ideally suited to this environment. Finally, a good camera and a pair of binoculars were important, especially for me! Oh, and a Jimmy-Hat, for the dress up party…
On writing this blog, is there a key motivational or inspirational message you would like to highlight to our followers?
As you say, not many people get the opportunity to visit Antarctica. It is therefore important that those of us that have had that chance become ambassadors for the region and share the stories of our experiences, continue to advocate for the protection of the continent, ensure people are aware of its uniqueness and fragility, and think about what more could be done to help preserve this special place. I would encourage your followers to think about the changes they can make at home that can ultimately lead to more positive outcomes for the planet. You might feel far from Antarctica, but changes there will ultimately affect us all, no matter where we are. We are one world and all in this together, so let’s each take responsibility and do what we can to make a difference.
If you would like to read more of Lynda's story or contribute to the project follow this link - https://chuffed.org/project/lynda-to-antarctica
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