Opportunity of A Lifetime - Help Fuel Amber's Research Expedition to Fiordland through Blake NZ

$1,510 of $1,500 goal

Given by 15 generous donors in 9 weeks

Support Amber to attend a once-in-a-lifetime expedition with BLAKE NZ to Doubtful Sound, to conduct research on fjord carbon capture.

New Plymouth, Taranaki

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Kia ora! I'm Amber a 16-year-old student at Sacred Heart Girls College in New Plymouth, Taranaki. In April 2023, I had the incredible opportunity to attend BLAKE Inspire, a youth programme focused on environmental leadership. This experience deepened my awareness of pressing environmental concerns, developed my leadership abilities and connected me with some amazing like-minded peers.

Now, I'm so grateful to be selected as one of only 8 NZ students to go on a once-in-a-lifetime expedition with BLAKE NZ to Doubtful Sound (Fiordland) this June. This project is a collaboration between incredible research organisations (including Otago Uni, GNS Science, and Ngāi Tahu) and it will be a huge privilege to work alongside scientists on a project like this in a largely secluded part of Aotearoa.

During the expedition, I'll be participating in research aimed at better understanding the carbon-capturing capabilities of our fjords. This aligns perfectly with my long-term goal of contributing to meaningful environmental research efforts.

Each student voyager has been asked to raise $1,500 to help cover the costs of participation. Anything that you can give will be extremely appreciated. I am excited to bring this learning back to my school and community.

Ngā mihi maioha,

Amber

Research Programme: https://www.gns.cri.nz/research-projects/fjords-as-carbon-sinks/

TRC 2023 Environmental Awards: Youth Environmental Leader - Amber Cayley - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dM5KHvXdhuA

Reflecting on my BLAKE Expedition To Fiordland 21 June 2024

I'm thrilled to share the incredible journey I've just returned from! Thanks to your support, I was able to participate in this Expedition to Fiordland with BLAKE NZ.

What a truly incredible opportunity this was! From June 3 to June 8, I had the privilege to be one of eight students on a BLAKE Expedition in Fiordland.

During this expedition, I had the chance to collaborate with GNS Science, University of Otago, and other amazing individuals whose passion and knowledge inspired me. We delved into the crucial role of fjords and carbon sequestration in shaping our climate.

From taking sediment cores and conducting water samples to kayaking down rivers, encountering dolphins, witnessing bioluminescence and plunging into the icy waters of the fjords, every activity was incredible and I'm immensely grateful for every moment.

It was eye-opening to see firsthand how such serene landscapes play a vital role in our planet's health and that youth engagement in environmental science is crucial for our planet's future.

Thank you once again for your support and belief in my journey, I am seriously grateful.

Kia ora rawa atu

Amber

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