In just over a week, the fourth edition of Homeward Bound will be setting sail from Ushuaia, Argentina to one of the most ecologically pristine environments in the world ̶ Antarctica.
On this journey, nearly 100 women with a background in STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics and medicine) will complete an intensive 12-month capacity building program that aims to equip them with the skills to demonstrate a new model of leadership, and to create better outcomes for the planet.
Hailing from across the world and a wide range of disciplines and professions, these women are ready to take their place on the global stage as thought leaders, stewards and activists for a new leadership paradigm that the world desperately needs.
The statistics are dire. As advancements in STEMM fields increase exponentially, women still only hold 18% of leadership roles. Women consistently undersell themselves (which we see year-on-year in Homeward Bound) and are less likely to put themselves forward for leadership. Yet, when they do, they excel. This lack of women holding leadership positions in STEMM fields has been described “more like an endless loop than a glass ceiling” (1).
Since launching in 2015, Homeward Bound has been a tireless advocate and capacity builder for women, amplifying their leadership role both within their organisations and publicly. Our work has gained the support of people globally, from renowned primatologist Jane Goodall to Chistiana Figueres, architect of the Paris Agreement, and has been recognised by the likes of Vogue and Fortune Magazine.
We are equally excited for this voyage to serve as the launch of our global campaign, Take Your Place. This initiative centres on the idea that the time has come for women around the globe to ‘take their place’ in leadership, whether on the program, the voyage, in their work and/or in the public spotlight.
As the participants of Homeward Bound’s fourth annual voyage set off, we wish them a safe passage and the best of luck, and eagerly await the outcomes from our next cohort of incredible women.
To meet the cohort, click here and follow their journey on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.