My First RGS Explore Symposium Experience
This weekend I was fortunate enough to attend the 2023 RGS Explore Symposium with work as my boss, Scotty, was presenting and running workshops. As I sat in the hallowed halls of the members' library on Sunday afternoon, a profound sense of awe and reverence washed over me. The air was tinged with the weight of history, each book and artefact a silent witness to the adventures and discoveries of explorers who had come before. Surrounded by shelves filled with the wisdom and tales of those intrepid souls, I couldn't help but feel a profound connection to their spirit of exploration. It was as if their legacy permeated the very air, urging me to embark on my own journeys of discovery and curiosity. In that moment, I understood the privilege of being part of this enduring community, and the responsibility that came with it – to honour their legacy by forging my own path in the world of exploration.
The Royal Geographic: Past and Present
The Royal Geographical Society (RGS) stands as a venerable institution at the forefront of geographical exploration and research. With a rich history spanning centuries, the RGS has been instrumental in advancing our understanding of the world's landscapes, cultures, and environments. Among them, names like Sir Ernest Shackleton and David Livingstone resonate as giants of their time. Shackleton's legendary Endurance Expedition, marked by extraordinary leadership and resilience in the face of adversity, remains an enduring testament to human fortitude in the harshest environments. Meanwhile, Livingstone's tireless explorations across Africa not only expanded our geographical knowledge but also illuminated the continent's cultures and societies. His fervent advocacy against the slave trade further solidified his legacy as a pioneering humanitarian explorer. These luminaries, and many others, exemplify the RGS's legacy of nurturing trailblazers whose audacious pursuits have enriched our understanding of the world.
One of its most celebrated initiatives is the Explore Symposium, an annual event that brings together a diverse community of explorers, adventurers, and enthusiasts. Curated by the esteemed Shane and Nigel Winser, both distinguished figures in the world of exploration, the symposium serves as a nexus for sharing knowledge, forging connections, and igniting a collective passion for discovery. Through captivating presentations and workshops, the Explore Symposium inspires attendees to embark on their own extraordinary journeys and contribute to the ever-expanding tapestry of human exploration.
The Future of Exploration
I had the privilege of meeting some wonderful people and making some exciting new connections with both old and young adventurers alike, each with their own unique vision for the world of exploration. Among them were the inspiring young women from "Following Nan Shepherd", who radiated a contagious enthusiasm for rekindling our connection with nature, advocating for a more deliberate, unhurried pace. The young chaps from Venture Shift were equally compelling, driven by a burning desire to effect policy change and reignite a sense of stewardship towards our precious planet. Then there was Rosanna Hine, a beacon of inspiration, whose aspirations in travel writing carried a profound sense of responsibility and purpose. And Finally Rich Matthews, who stood out as a visionary with a keen focus on community engagement. With fervour in his eyes, he shared his ambitious plans to foster connections through monthly talks and lectures in localised areas. Rich's commitment to building a sense of belonging and shared purpose within local communities was a shining example of how exploration can unite us all in a common quest for understanding and appreciation of the world around us. If you’re interested in knowing more about these amazing projects, please do connect with them below.
I couldn't help but carry with me a sense of anticipation and possibility. The connections forged with fellow adventurers, each with their own unique perspectives and aspirations, felt like the beginning of something truly special. I'm eager to nurture these conversations and see where they might lead. There's an unmistakable energy that comes from brainstorming and sharing ideas with like-minded individuals, and I'm hopeful that we can build on these exciting concepts in the future. Together, we have the potential to turn our collective dreams of exploration and discovery into tangible, transformative endeavours that make a lasting impact on the world around us.
My Lifes “Expedition”
The weekend provided me with a wellspring of inspiration, igniting a fire to embark on my own expeditions and push the boundaries of exploration. I felt a profound calling to create opportunities for young adventurers, to empower them with the tools and experiences needed to forge their own paths in the world of exploration. The prospect of breaking down barriers and opening doors for the next generation of explorers became a driving force within me. If anyone shares a passion for youth development within adventure communities, I am wholeheartedly open to discussions and collaboration. The empowerment of young adventurers and the cultivation of their potential is a cause close to my heart. Whether you have ideas, experiences, or resources to contribute, I believe that together, we can create meaningful opportunities for the next generation of explorers. Feel free to reach out, and let's embark on this journey of nurturing and inspiring young minds together.
Additionally, being asked to lead operations and establish basecamp for an expedition to Greenland in 2025 was an exhilarating and humbling opportunity. The mission to measure the effects of climate change on floating pack ice represents not only a scientific endeavour of paramount importance, but also a chance to contribute meaningfully to our understanding of this critical issue. It's a responsibility I accept with both eagerness and a deep sense of duty to our planet and its future. Greenland, with its vast ice sheets and dramatic landscapes, stands as a crucible of climate change research. It serves as a living laboratory, offering invaluable insights into the profound shifts occurring on our planet. The rapid melting of Greenland's ice sheets is a stark indicator of global warming's impact on sea-level rise, with consequences felt worldwide. Scientists and researchers flock to this frozen expanse to study the intricate interplay between ice dynamics, atmospheric conditions, and oceanic influences.
Events like the Symposium serve as vital crucibles for the growth and evolution of the exploration community. They offer a nexus where like-minded adventurers, from seasoned experts to budding enthusiasts, converge to share knowledge, stories, and aspirations. These gatherings facilitate a rich exchange of ideas, sparking collaborations and forging connections that can lead to groundbreaking expeditions and projects. Beyond the tangible outcomes, they foster a sense of camaraderie and belonging among individuals driven by a common passion for discovery. The symposium provides a platform for inspiration to flourish and for mentorship to take root, nurturing the next generation of explorers. Moreover, it amplifies the collective voice of the exploration community, emphasising the urgency of preserving our planet and its wonders for future generations.
In essence, events like these are the lifeblood of the exploration community, breathing vitality, purpose, and a sense of shared destiny into our collective pursuit of understanding and appreciating the world around us.
Moving Forward
On the odd occasion I wasn’t creating new connections or being inspired by past endeavours, I found myself drawn to moments of reflection. I traced the steps of my own journey, from the earliest sparks of curiosity to the present moment. Each experience, each challenge, and every triumph converged to bring me to this point – surrounded by kindred spirits and inspired by the legacy of explorers who came before. It was a humbling realisation, a testament to the power of one's passion and determination. In that space of introspection, I felt a profound sense of purpose welling up within me, a conviction that my path was aligned with a higher calling. Moving forward, I carry with me a renewed dedication to exploration, a commitment to fostering a community of adventurers, and a deep-seated belief in the transformative potential of our collective endeavours. This symposium was not just a milestone, but a beacon guiding me towards the next chapters of my own extraordinary journey.
If you’re interested in working with any of the projects mentioned above, or a project of your own, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. I’m here to help in whatever capacity I can. And if you’re looking to support some engaging and inspiring young projects I’d love to hear from you and to discuss where your passions lie and what connections I can make. As always, please feel free to comment below.
‘till next time. Ol