ALL-ACTION Emirati Mariam Al Hammadi is hoping she’s second-time lucky later this week, as she takes on the sub-zero challenge of Antarctica.
The Abu Dhabi student is taking part in an expedition to conquer the harsh environment at the bottom of the world, as part of the Leadership on the Edge programme, which is run by Antarctica environmental organisation 2041.
This marks the second time the 23-year-old has taken on the challenge, as she first participated in the initiative in February of last year, after Sir Robert Swan, founder of 2041, visited the Higher Colleges of Technology Madinat Zayed in the Western Region, where she studies.
Meant to inspire participants, the expedition strives to create future leaders and raise awareness about the region, and Al Hammadi immediately signed on.
However, disaster struck on a trial glacier hike in Ushuaia, Argentina, where the young student broke her leg less than 24 hours before they were due to set sail to Antarctica.
Immobile and injured, Al Hammadi was forced to abandon her attempt. “I was devastated! I was so close and still so far. I cried for many days about losing this opportunity and for my damaged leg,” she said.
Once back in the UAE, she eschewed surgery and used physiotherapy to heal her leg and was eager to try again.
“I truly hope that by finishing what I started I can show everyone that I don’t give up and I can be an excellent role model for women here in the UAE,” she explained.
Heading to Argentina on Friday 7th March, the team will fly to Ushuaia, the most southern city in the world. After three days of training the group will travel by boat to Antarctica via the treacherous ‘Drake Passage’.
Returning to the UAE on 26th March, Al Hammadi hopes to fulfill her goal this time round. “I didn’t give up on my dream, I worked hard to get fit again and to find a way. I have a second chance to experience one of the most remote and spectacular places on earth.”
For information visit: www.2041.com
