Sangram Kakad, a commerce graduate from Brihan Maharashtra College of Commerce (BMCC) and a final year student of CA course, has been selected by the legendary Robert Swan and his NGO, Swan. The NGO have been leading expeditions to Antarctic since 2003.

As many as 50 people have been selected from across the world for this expedition, which will start on March 8, 2014 at Ushuaia in Argentina and will travel to various locations on the continent.

Swan is the first person to have walked on both the North and South Poles. He has been conducting expeditions in Antarctic to create awareness amongst people all over the world about global warming and climate change. His motive is to gain first-hand knowledge of the continent’s fragile ecosystem by experiencing wildlife, teaching people how global warming can be countered by promoting recycling, renewable energy and sustainability.

“While pursuing my studies, I had been ardently following various NGOs like Jagriti Seva Sanstha and Goonj. Through Rituraj Phukan of Assam, who was selected for the 2013 expedition. I came to know about the 2014 expedition and sent my nomination,” Kakad said.

During the selection process, he had to appear for the written test and then the selectors checked his knowledge of the continent. “The selection for the expedition has been made very carefully to identify potential sustainability leaders,” Kakad said.

About his post-expedition plans, Kakad said, “I aim to put all the experience gained through this expedition to full use by starting a movement against climate change in India. The movement will inform, engage and inspire the younger generations to take up the responsiblity of combating the serious issue of climate change.”