Curro learner L’chelle Bester explores sustainability in Antarctica
14 January 2025A Curro learner has made waves in the esteemed Students in Antarctica programme, a once-in-a-lifetime initiative founded by explorer Riaan Manser. This year, the competition selected five South African matriculants to travel to Antarctica for a unique experience focused on sustainability and conservation. Among them was Curro Hillcrest’s L’chelle Bester, whose remarkable journey left a lasting impression.
Photo Credit: Michael Markovina
A journey to the ice desert
L’chelle and her fellow participants travelled to Antarctica in November, accompanied by an extraordinary group of experts, including South Africa’s top environmental lawyer, a genetic scientist studying sub-Antarctic zooplankton, and a filmmaker documenting conservation efforts. Together, they explored pressing global challenges while gaining insight from world leaders in their fields.
L’chelle shared highlights of her eight days in the ice desert. The group apparently participated in snowball fights, a cold plunge, hiking through ice tunnels, and even sleeping outdoors in -17°C temperatures. ‘It wasn’t just about the breathtaking landscapes,’ she said. ‘It was the incredible people I shared this experience with, each offering astronomical value and leaving an indelible imprint on me.’
Photo Credit: Michael Markovina
They also engaged in profound conversations about environmental and existential issues. L’chelle noted how one discussion with a filmmaker resonated deeply: ‘In the midst of trying to figure out all the big questions, don’t forget to be here, now.’
Photo Credit: Michael Markovina
Building a sustainable future
L’chelle, a Grade 12 learner, is passionate about innovation and environmental stewardship. Her Students in Antarctica journey complemented her ongoing efforts, including developing an app to log community service hours and envisioning a beach-cleaning robot to address microplastic pollution.
This expedition underscored the importance of everyday actions in shaping a sustainable future. L’chelle described the trip as transformative, and quoted Thich Nhat Hanh, from the book The Miracle of Mindfulness, ‘I learned that the real miracle isn’t walking on water or in thin air but walking on earth. Every day is a miracle – a blue sky, green leaves, or the curious eyes of a child.’
Photo Credit: Michael Markovina
About Students in Antarctica
The Students in Antarctica programme, which is supported by the Department of Basic Education, inspires learners to become ambassadors for sustainability. Participants gain firsthand experience in conservation activities, scientific research, and the fragile beauty of Earth’s southernmost continent.
Curro is incredibly proud of L’chelle, along with Unathi Kiam Ncube from Curro Heritage House and Riamarie Visagie from Windhoek Gymnasium, who also advanced to the competition’s Top 10.
Photo Credit: Michael Markovina
