Public Interest Journalism funded through NZ On Air
Two Pasifika students from Auckland have been selected as part of a team of twenty-two young explorers between the ages of 18-20 from across the country to embark on the trip of a lifetime.
Porohu Hagai Noa and Rykien Amiatu from Auckland will join the ninth Inspiring Explorers Expedition, which is travelling to South Georgia Island. It has been described as the largest expedition yet.
Of Samoan/Māori heritage, Rykien Amiatu is one of three Deputy Headboys at Tangaroa College. He says the expedition was a top priority for the school and he is humbled to have been selected to represent the school.
“I feel that being a part of this expedition will give me the opportunity to explore the world in a way I haven’t had the chance to do, so far. By stepping out of my comfort zone, I will be able to learn more about what the world has to offer and be able to take those learnings, to help guide me as I look to undertake future tertiary studies next year.”
17 year old Sir Edmund Hillary Collegiate student, Porohu says she is excited and honoured to be selected for the expedition. Of Cook Island Māori descent described herself as an outgoing person.
“I always attempt to seek out the positive in every aspect of my life and I have many ‘dream’ goals in terms of the things I would still like to do, see, and to experience.”
The explorers will take part in an outreach project working in groups across topics such as climate change, education, history and science. Located in the remote South Atlantic Ocean, South Georgia Island has a reputation for the greatest density of wildlife on earth. It’s home to king penguins, fur seals, and 50 percent of the world’s southern elephant seals.
Antarctic Heritage Trust Executive Director, Francesca Eathorne says, “This expedition will connect these young people with Shackleton’s incredible legacy and we hope, inspire them to embrace that same spirit of exploration. It’s a spirit as critical in the 21st century as it was over a century ago – particularly for our young people who face a rapidly changing world.”
Rykien hopes more Pasifika students will take the opportunity to get involved in expeditions.
“I believe that this expedition is important for Pasifika people to learn about because it allows them the opportunity to broaden their perspectives about the different experiences the world has to offer.”
“Through the act of sharing this positive experience to others at home, the Pasifika community can understand how this work is significant to others in the community and how rewarding it would be, to be able to participate, if given the opportunity,” adds Rykien.
The Inspiring Explorers will sail to South Georgia on Antarctica21’s ship, the Magellan Explorer between 30 September – 14 October.
