A team of seven Commonwealth ladies arrived at the South Pole on 29 December at 11.09 pm Chilean time. They started their ski expedition from the Messner/ Ronne-Filchner Ice Shelf Start point on 22 November.
Marking the 60th aniversary of the Commonwealth, the expedition aims to demonstrate the potential of greater intercultural understanding and exchange, while at the same time highlighting the achievements of women across the world. Representing Cyprus in the Mediterranean is Stephanie Solomonides, a 25-year-old IT Implementation Officer from Nicosia.
Endlessly enthusiastic and full of energy, Stephanie hopes that her participation in the expedition will enable her to tell more people about her country as well as inspiring other young people in Cyprus to push their boundaries and fulfil their dreams. Stephanie will be the first Cypriot to ski to the South Pole.
Upon being asked on the reason for joining this expedition, she stated that “On many levels the challenges provided by this expedition are the biggest incentive. I love adventures, and this could definitely be considered the ultimate one! It will give me great personal satisfaction to have participated and completed successfully something that is so far from my comfort zone. To be part of a team that could potentially spread the word of intercultural understanding (something very significant with regards to Cyprus), racial and religious tolerance, while also promote the modern
Commonwealth woman, is inspiring and helped cemented by decision to become involved. Already, being part of such a diverse team and forging an important bond with these women has been a unique experience. One can only imagine what a life-changing experience the expedition could be.”
Demetris Christophias, President of the Republic of Cyprus on his message for the Expedition stated that; ‘This expedition is important for Cyprus and the Commonwealth for a number of reasons….the amount of effort and resolve required by these women, will bring to the forefront the importance and benefits of intercultural cooperation, and raise awareness on gender issues, proving at the same time the important role that women can play in our societies.
(source: voice of greece)
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