Computer security outfit Kaspersky Lab is acting as title sponsor of the Commonwealth Antarctic Expedition.

Setting out in November, 2009, The Kaspersky Lab Commonwealth Antarctic Expedition is an all-female affair with eight women from the Commonwealth countries of Cyprus, Ghana, India, Singapore, Brunei, New Zealand, Jamaica and the UK taking part. The contingent of intrepid explorers will ski more than 900 km from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole. The team will be exposed to temperatures as low as -40С, despite global warning.

And there will be a number of ‘firsts’ for the team: the ladies from Brunei, Cyprus, Ghana and Jamaica will be the first from their nations to ski to the South Pole, whilst those from India, New Zealand and Singapore will be the first women from their nations to do so.

The expedition is designed to attract public attention to the problems of the degrading Antarctic environment, whereas Kaspersky Lab’s participation will, in their won words, demonstrate the company’s corporate responsibility and also increase public awareness of changes to the global climate.

The leader of the expedition is Felicity Aston from the UK and she said:
“We are thrilled to be working with Kaspersky Lab … an international group that recognizes the importance of working across nations and cultures to tackle global issues – be that computer malware or the effects of climate change. Kaspersky Lab and the expedition share the same pioneering spirit so I am sure that we will make a great team.”

Harry Cheung, Managing Director of Kaspersky Lab Asia Pacific, agreed, stating:
“The Commonwealth Antarctic Expedition is an important awareness initiative and a remarkable team effort. Kaspersky Lab’s support for such projects is part of our corporate social responsibility policy. Our company shares the ideas and principles of international solidarity that have made this expedition possible. Just like the expedition team, we ignore stereotypes and prejudices in our work and recognize the reality of the modern world. We are honoured to sponsor the Commonwealth Antarctic Expedition.”

The expedition stats are quite impressive, representing as it does five continents, six faiths and seven languages. The expedition has a fundamental aim to reflect the ethos of the Commonwealth by promoting greater understanding and cooperation between nations and to highlight the achievements of women worldwide. The Commonwealth itself is an association of 53 nations incorporating more than two billion people around the globe and this expedition coincides with its 60th year in existence.

With a kick-off in November, 2009, the ladies hope to be at the South Pole in time to celebrate New Year’s Day 2010. Those interested can follow the expedition in real time at www.kasperskycommonwealthexpedition.com using interactive maps, podcasts, and Twitter messages.

Guest Article by Neil Camp