We are delighted to reveal the 2023 recipients of The Exodus Exploration Without Boundaries Grant. In collaboration with The Explorers Club, these grants aim to inspire unrestricted exploration, pushing the boundaries of cultural, scientific, and conservation fieldwork. Our belief is rooted in the idea that explorers from diverse backgrounds are catalysts for knowledge and change. The four champions we introduce embody this spirit.
Exodus Exploration Without Boundaries Grant 2023 Winners:
Amanda Ho – Seagrass Preservation & Restoration in Cambodia: Amanda, armed with degrees in Oceanography and Environmental Science, is dedicated to researching seagrass meadows in Cambodia. As an AAUS-certified Scientific Diver, she strives to protect these vital blue carbon systems, utilizing the grant to continue her work in conserving the planet’s seagrass ecosystems.
Project Goal: Mapping, monitoring, conserving, and restoring seagrass meadows in the Kep Archipelago and Kampot Province in Cambodia, addressing the limited seagrass restoration efforts in developing countries.
Susmita Lama – Climate Communication in Trans-Himalayan Communities of Nepal: A graduate of Tribhuvan University, Susmita’s passion for wildlife and environmental conservation is deeply rooted in her Nepalese heritage. Her project aims to document the stories of resilience and traditional knowledge within the trans-Himalayan region of Nepal, utilizing storytelling to bridge the gap between scientific recommendations and indigenous recognition.
Project Goal: Sci-stories: Bridging the unequal climate exchanges in the trans-Himalayan region of Nepal by using storytelling as a tool to bring scientific recommendations and indigenous recognition.
Christian Nolorbe – Danger in the Diet: Microplastic Contamination of Indigenous Amazonian Fishing Grounds: An Associate Professor at the National University of the Peruvian Amazon, Christian investigates the level of microplastic contamination in Amazonian fish. His project aims to uncover potential health consequences for the indigenous communities relying on these fish for sustenance.
Project Goal: Investigating microplastic contamination in the fishing grounds of indigenous Amazonians, who depend on fish for sustenance and face significant harm if stocks are reduced.
Cassidy Schoenfelder – Traditions of Erasure: A Geo-aesthetic Study of the National Park Service Artist Residency Programs: A member of the Oglala band of the Lakota Sioux tribe, Cassidy explores tribal/federal co-management initiatives in U.S. national parks. Focusing on representing tribal lands, water, and non-human beings, her project delves into how Indigenous-centered policies are implemented in park management practices.
Project Goal: Observing how artists and their artworks inform public understanding, navigation, behaviour, and politicization of public lands, with a particular focus on the Indigenous perspective.
The 2023 Exodus Exploration Without Boundaries Grant winners are beacons of inspiration and innovation. These courageous individuals embody the spirit of unyielding curiosity and dedication to the betterment of our global community. As we eagerly anticipate their project results, we’d like to take a moment to celebrate the transformative power of exploration in shaping our understanding of the world and forging a path toward a more sustainable and interconnected future.
Stay tuned for updates on these extraordinary explorers and their groundbreaking expeditions here!