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Students in Antarctica expedition. Following a rigorous selection process and the submission of a personal portfolio, L’chelle Bester, a Grade 11 learner at Curro Hillcrest has been chosen as one of five learners across Africa to join explorer Riaan Manser on the Students in Antarctica expedition this December.
The competition also sees eco-minded young people from the continent submitting a video about an environmental sustainability project they’re working on. The top 20 are shortlisted, then the top 10 finalists are announced. Finally, the top 5 are selected to join Manser on his annual expedition. Curro enjoyed an impressive showing in 2024, with two additional learners making it to the top 10. They are Unathi Kiam Ncube from Curro Heritage House in Durban, and Riamarie Visagie from Windhoek Gymnasium in Namibia.
Tech-savvy changemaker
Bester is a tech-savvy changemaker who is passionate about environmental sustainability. He is currently developing an app for her school. The app will help learners log their community service hours. It will also inspire them to see the impact of their efforts on the environment. Her dream is to create a beach-cleaning robot that targets microplastics, combining technology and innovation to fight climate change.
The trip aims to show the top 5 learners why Antarctica is such an important ecosystem that impacts the world and its environment.
“I’ve been following Students in Antarctica for three years now, just waiting for my turn to come around,” enthuses Bester. “Not only will it be the experience of a lifetime, but I believe a trip like this is something you can’t return the same from. That’s what I’m seeking – growth.”
Qualities of authenticity
She and the other top 5 learners were selected for demonstrating the qualities of authenticity and analytical thinking. Furthermore willingness to learn, love for their own communities and practicality about affecting change in their backyard. Last but not least, optimism for creating positive change.
“We are incredibly proud of L’chelle for being selected as one of the top 5 learners to join the Antarctica expedition. Through her creativity, passion, and dedication to environmental causes, L’chelle has shown that she is ready to represent South Africa on this transformative journey,” said Paul Guthrie, Executive Head at Curro Hillcrest.
Taking place from 11 to 20 December, the trip is an educational experience. It gives learners hands-on, experiential learning opportunities and drives home the importance of addressing climate change.
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