2014–2041 International Antarctic Expedition
In 2014, Eagle Scout Alex Houston from Lawrence, Kansas, was selected to join the 2041 International Antarctic Expedition, led by renowned polar explorer Robert Swan. The expedition’s mission was to explore the Antarctic Peninsula to study its ecology, observe wildlife, and emphasize the importance of renewable energy in preserving the continent’s pristine environment. The name “2041” signifies the year when the international treaty protecting Antarctica from exploitation is set to expire, highlighting the urgency of promoting sustainable practices.
Prior to departing for Antarctica, Alex spent several days in Ushuaia, Argentina, the southernmost city in the world, preparing for the journey. From there, the team embarked on an icebreaker ship, navigating the Drake Passage to reach the Antarctic Peninsula. During the expedition, Alex and his fellow participants engaged in various activities, including observing and documenting local wildlife such as humpback whales, leopard seals, and gentoo penguins. These firsthand experiences provided valuable insights into the delicate Antarctic ecosystem and the challenges it faces.
Upon returning, Alex and Robert Swan shared their findings and experiences at the 2014 Sustainability Summit, aiming to raise awareness about environmental conservation and the role of renewable energy in protecting vulnerable regions like Antarctica. Alex’s participation in the expedition exemplifies the impact of Scouting in fostering environmental stewardship and global citizenship among youth.
2016 Homeward Bound Expedition
Homeward Bound is a pioneering global leadership initiative launched in 2015 by Australian entrepreneur Fabian Dattner and marine ecologist Jessica Melbourne-Thomas. The program was designed to elevate the influence and impact of women in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine (STEMM), with the goal of building a network of 1,000 women leaders over the course of a decade. The initiative is rooted in the belief that the planet needs more collaborative, inclusive leadership — particularly in addressing challenges like climate change and environmental sustainability.
The inaugural expedition took place in December 2016, bringing together 76 women from across the globe for a 20-day voyage to the Antarctic Peninsula. It was the largest all-female expedition to Antarctica at the time, and a landmark moment for women in STEMM. During the journey, participants took part in immersive leadership workshops, scientific collaboration, and environmental observation activities — all framed by the stark beauty and urgent ecological lessons of the Antarctic environment. Notably, 9 of the 11 American participants, including Terri Fiez, were former Girl Scouts, highlighting the organization’s long standing role in developing future female scientists and explorers.
The program’s innovative design blends leadership training, personal development, and scientific engagement, all delivered in a remote, reflective setting that fosters deep connection and perspective. A documentary titled The Leadership was filmed during the 2016 voyage, capturing the challenges and breakthroughs experienced by the participants, and drawing global attention to the gender gap in science and leadership.
Following its success, Homeward Bound has continued to send cohorts of women to Antarctica annually, with participation growing each year. By 2025, the program had launched its eighth expedition, with 124 women from 22 countries setting sail — including eight from Spain. Homeward Bound continues to empower a global community of women scientists and professionals, building a collaborative network poised to lead the way in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future.
In January 2019, Joe Doherty, a member of Hampshire Scout Expeditions in the UK, made Scouting history by becoming the first Scout in the world to ski to the South Pole and kite-ski back — a feat of endurance, determination, and sheer grit that few adventurers have ever attempted.
Joe’s journey was part of an ambitious plan originally involving a five-person team. However, due to injuries and other commitments, the expedition evolved into a guided crossing supported by Antarctic Logistics and Expeditions (ALE). Joe joined a small team — one guide and two fellow clients — for the grueling ski journey to the South Pole. Pulling sleds that weighed up to 120 kg (265 pounds), they carried all their own supplies and equipment, navigating one of the harshest environments on Earth entirely under their own power.
2019 Hampshire Scout Expedition
United States • Soviet Union (USSR) • United Kingdom • France
Japan • Argentina • Australia • Canada • Chile • South Africa
New Zealand • Norway • Germany • India • Italy • Brazil
Despite Cold War tensions, both the U.S. and the USSR made major contributions, including launching the first artificial satellites (Sputnik 1 by the USSR and Explorer 1 by the U.S.) — ushering in the space age. The IGY also saw unprecedented cooperation in Antarctica, with 12 countries establishing more than 50 research stations across the continent.
This spirit of peaceful collaboration led directly to the signing of the Antarctic Treaty in 1959, ensuring Antarctica would be used exclusively for scientific and peaceful purposes — a legacy of the IGY that continues to this day.
