Antarctica, the icy continent, is the fifth largest
and least known of the world's land masses. It boasts 10% of the
planet's land area and more than 70% of its fresh water. It can
claim to be the highest place on earth, with an average height of
2300m above sea level; the coldest place on earth, once recording a
temperature of -90°C; the windiest place on earth, with gusts up to
370km/h; and the driest place on earth, with valleys that haven't
seen rain for thousands of years. Antarctica, with its unspoiled
ecosystem, is also the world's finest laboratory, and a continent
with a rich history of exploration, endurance and
survival.
Antarctica's global significance has
been recognised and protected by the Antarctic Treaty System, but
the key to ensuring its long term protection is the education and
engagement of the next generation of environmental
stewards.
The Antarctic Youth Ambassador programme, launched in 2007 and run in
association with Antarctica New Zealand and the Antarctic Heritage
Trust, selects one young New Zealander annually to participate in
and contribute to the environmental and heritage restoration work
in Antarctica, and to educate others through their experiences. In
doing so, this programme invests in the future of the Antarctic
environment by building capability and understanding in young New
Zealanders.
The Antarctic Youth Ambassador will be placed with
Antarctica New Zealand or the Antarctic Heritage Trust for a period
during the summer months and will work as part of an environmental
or heritage restoration team. This may include work based at the
International Antarctic Centre in Christchurch, at Scott Base in
Antarctica or in other Antarctic locations for which Antarctica New
Zealand has responsibility.
Are you the next Antarctic Youth
Ambassador?
Applications for the 2012 Award open on March
1st. The application form and
further information about the application process will be available
at this time.
Eligibility
Criteria
The successful applicant will be:
- 18 - 25 years of age at the time of
application;
- A New Zealand citizen or New Zealand
resident;
- Able to demonstrate a passion for New Zealand's
natural environment;
- Able to demonstrate a contribution to New Zealand's
natural environment;
- Able to demonstrate a passion for Antarctica,
engagement with the issues facing Antarctica and an understanding
of its global significance;
- Able to demonstrate experience in remote
settings;
- In exceptional health, with a high standard of
fitness;
- Able to show leadership
potential;
- Hard working, adaptable and a team
player;
- Independent, self-confident and
self-reliant;
- Articulate and experienced at presentations and
public speaking ;
- Able to show a high standard of writing
ability.