Applications are now open for the next Girls* on Ice expedition in January 2025. This program will see ten girls* heading to Mt. Ruapehu, where they will engage in science experiments and fieldwork, including the study of snow and glaciers, artistic projects, and mountain safety training.
Hosted by Te Herenga Waka—Victoria University of Wellington’s Te Puna Pātiotio—Antarctic Research Centre, Girls* on Ice Aotearoa is part of the global Inspiring Girls* Expeditions. These expeditions aim to empower young women* through the integration of science, art, and outdoor exploration.
This fully sponsored programme gives participants the chance to explore Aotearoa’s stunning landscapes while learning from the University’s esteemed female scientists, artists, and mountaineers.
Targeting girls* aged 15 to 16 (by/in January 2025), the programme ignites their interest in STEM based subjects before they plan their tertiary education. It also inspires young women* to pursue their passion for science and the outdoors, demonstrating they can succeed in these traditionally male-dominated fields.
Reflecting on their experience, 2024 participants shared their thoughts on the expedition through an anonymous survey:
“I really enjoyed learning about so many different things in such a vast range of areas and it really confirmed that I want to pursue a career in environmental sciences.”
“The expedition made me appreciate my life and where I live a lot more. Meeting girls with so many different backgrounds were really eye-opening, and I found it so cool that we bonded despite our differences. It taught me that I can be a good leader if I set my mind to it.”
Julia Martin, co-leader of Girls* on Ice and PhD candidate in snow science at the Antarctic Research Centre, says this impact is exactly what the programme is about.
“Our goal is to encourage these girls* to step beyond their comfort zones and discover a passion for science and the outdoors,” she says. “We hope this experience will inspire participation and empower young women* to pursue careers in science, art, and wilderness exploration.
“My vision for Girls* on Ice Aotearoa is to showcase the endless variety of science and encourage young women* to chase their dreams, no matter how big and adventurous they may be.”
The programme is possible due to the generous support of donors, particularly Beverley McCombs, the US Embassy, Antarctic Science Platform, International Association of Cryospheric Sciences, National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research, and Mountain Adventure.
Due to high interest in the programme, Girls* on Ice is also seeking volunteers to assist with application reviews.
*Girls on Ice welcomes female-identifying, non-binary, and intersex students.