Merton alumna joins global leadership programme for women in STEMM

Harriet Teare, a Chemistry graduate student from 2005 to 2009, in Professor Véronique Gouverneur's research group, has been selected for Homeward Bound, a global leadership programme for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics and Medicine (STEMM).

Homeward Bound is a global 12-month leadership initiative for women with a background in STEMM. It aims, over ten years, to equip a 1000-strong cohort of women with the skills to demonstrate a new model of leadership and create better outcomes for our planet. The programme includes online learning to increase leadership capacity, strategic capability, visibility and collaboration. It culminates in a meeting of all 100 participants (from 34 different nationalities) of the Homeward Bound 6 cohort in Ushuaia, Argentina, after which the group will embark on a 'life-changing' voyage to one of the most ecologically sensitive and inspiring areas on earth, Antarctica, currently planned for March 2022.

Harriet says:

"I was delighted to be selected, but it is only since the programme has begun that I have fully appreciated how powerful this global network of women is going to be, and what an incredible opportunity this is. I am very excited for the year ahead."

Harriet has teamed up with seven other UK-based participants to see how many times they can cover the equivalent distance (by bike, running, swimming, walking etc) from the UK to Antarctica (16,000km) in order to fundraise for their trip, whilst showcasing the science and innovation that is taking place along their virtual route. Their virtual journey will commence on Thursday 22 April, which marks Earth Day 2021.