Social Entrepreneur Award shortlisted finalist

Social Entrepreneur Award shortlisted finalist

Antony Jinman, Education through Expeditions

Antony joined Formation 2.0 in December 2009 to develop his Community Interest Company, Education Through Expeditions, aiming to inspire and educate children globally about world climate change through interactive expeditions and related school outreach work.

He recently returned from an epic expedition to ski the geographic North Pole, having secured major sponsorship from the University of Plymouth and Microsoft Bing, collecting sea ice and seawater samples to provide clues about how the Arctic is changing and replying to childrens questions through his satellite phone using photography, audio and text – making them feel as if they’re part of the expedition, encouraging an early interest in science and the environment. Through his expeditions he runs a non-profit school outreach project bringing classrooms alive through photography and film, will soon be participating in events with local schools through the University’s WP and LabPlus initiatives, and is committed to supporting other organisations such as The Princes Trust.

Since moving into Formation 2.0 Antony’s team is now ten strong, all working on a number of exciting educational projects and expeditions. He is currently working with five University students providing work experience through placements and volunteering.

Nominee top 3 achievements:

1. To turn his idea into a Community Interest Company allowing him to develop his concept but stay true to his values – being in Formation 2.0 has enabled Antony to present a professional image for the company when meeting sponsors and provide volunteering opportunities for others (using the hotel desk working environment).

2. Accessing high level sponsorship for his most recent expedition – small donations through to major support from the University of Plymouth and Microsoft Bing.

3. Inspiring others, particularly children, demonstrating that you can achieve anything if you put your mind to it – as “an ordinary bloke from Plymouth” he has achieved so much and others can do this too.

Posted 27 May 2010