Homeward Bound: Jessica's Leadership Voyage

In February 2018, I'll join 80 women from around the world on a voyage to Antarctica with Homeward Bound, a global leadership initiative for women in science aimed at building a more equitable and sustainable future for our planet.

As a museum curator, I draw on my background in environmental science and science communication to develop exhibitions that celebrate and inspire people to conserve Earth's amazing biodiversity in the face of global environmental change. I'm also passionate about sharing stories that showcase the voices of women in science.

I currently live in Western Australia, but I’m originally from the Unites States. Disheartened by the state of politics back home and recent policies that undermine both women and climate science, I’ve been searching for an opportunity to step up and contribute my voice to the larger conversation about these issues. I first heard about the Homeward Bound program through an article in the local newspaper. When I read about the vision of this global initiative and the inaugural journey to Antarctica, I knew this was something I wanted to be a part of.

I’m incredibly excited to be taking part in this once-in-a-lifetime leadership journey and opportunity to experience Antarctica and the affects of climate change firsthand. It’s also quite humbling to be part of this impressive cohort of women in science. What excites me most about the Homeward Bound vision is the chance to help build a network of like-minded and empowered women in science, representing 13 different countries from around the world. In an effort to raise funds to participate in the program, I've also teamed up with four other amazing women here in Western Australia to form Team WA Homeward Bound 2018.

Having recently turned 50, I feel a strong desire to challenge myself and to 'play a bigger game' by getting involved in a larger global network. Participating in this program will strengthen my leadership voice to speak up on behalf of our changing planet and its most vulnerable inhabitants. As the Homeward Bound tagline states, "Mother Nature needs her daughters."

Jessica Brainard

Check out Jessica's awesome crowdfunding campaign in support of Homeward Bound and her voyage to save the environment below: