Our Explorers | National Geographic Society (original) (raw)

National Geographic Explorers

Changemakers and innovators

We welcome Explorers from around the globe and seek to build a community reflecting the diversity of our world.

National Geographic Explorers are exceptional individuals in their fields who receive funding and support from the Society to illuminate and protect our world through their work in science, exploration, education, and storytelling.

They are driven by something bigger than themselves. They see the difference between the world as it is and as it could be, and they make a choice to do something about it with courage and conviction.

"We are all in this together...This is about us all joining together across cultures, races, and classes to change the way our global system works."

Nemonte Nenquimo

Explorer and Waorani Leader

"Our job as Explorers is to be the eyes for the rest of the world and connect future generations and adults with our work."

Gustavo Hinojosa-Arango

Explorer and Marine Biologist

"Thanks to generations of curious, daring, intrepid explorers of the past, we may know enough, soon enough, to chart safe passage for ourselves far into the future."

Sylvia Earle

Explorer at Large and Oceanographer

“Once you have a changemaker mindset, when you see something is not correct, you’ll take this up and make the change happen.”

“In the end, I believe that if we truly want to save our oceans, every coastline needs a local hero.”

Asha DeVos

Explorer and Oceanographer

Global changemakers

This is what an

explorer looks like

The Mindset and Code

What it means to be an Explorer

We are deeply committed to performing our mission in a manner that earns the respect of everyone we interact with and maintains our brand trust and reputation. Our success in achieving this mission is dependent upon an unwavering personal commitment from our Explorer Community.

The Explorer Mindset

While National Geographic Explorers represent diverse backgrounds and fields of work, they are united by shared values and commitments. National Geographic Explorers …

• are leaders and problem solvers
• are informed, curious, and capable individuals who are committed to making the world a better place
• have a sense of responsibility and respect for other people, cultures, and the natural world
• are empowered to make a difference, pursue bold ideas, and persist in the face of challenges
• observe, document, and engage with the world around them
• tell stories that inspire others
• create and foster a global community committed to a sustainable future.
• are committed to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in their fields.

The Explorer Code

The Explorer Code is a simple credo that fosters a productive, collaborative, empathetic, and solution-oriented National Geographic Explorers community. National Geographic Explorers are expected to exemplify this code, demonstrating integrity and acting according to the highest ethical standards.

• treat their peers, National Geographic staff, and others with respect
• present and share their work openly, truthfully, and accurately
• collaborate willingly with and support other members of the community
• set an example for and mentor other members of the community

Meet the explorers

Our global community

of solution-seekers

They have diverse ideas, talents, backgrounds, and expertise. Wherever their paths take them — in the lab, behind the lens, in the classroom, or in the field — Explorers make profound contributions that help to realize our mission and vision.

Investing in Explorers

Explorer cultivation and support

National Geographic Explorers get access to valuable opportunities and resources.

Being a National Geographic Explorer means more than just receiving financial support from the Society. We make investments in each Explorer with project funding and expanded professional development, training, leadership and speaking opportunities, community building, and connections.

Education and training

We offer courses in science communication, project management, and more — including the award-winning NGS Sciencetelling™ Bootcamp.

Professional gatherings

Explorers have exclusive access to our in-person and virtual thought leadership convenings, like the annual Storytellers Summit, Education Summit, and Explorers Festival.

Peer-to-peer support

Our online community spaces allow for networking and connection between National Geographic Explorers.

Amplification

As part of Nat Geo, National Geographic Explorers have opportunities to present their work virtually, on stage, and with internal and external media outlets.

Cutting-edge tools

Our Exploration Technology lab provides access to technology and tools for use by the Explorer Community.

Photo Credits from top of page: Rijasolo, Charlie Hamilton James, Rebecca Hale and Mark Thiessen, Steve De Neef, Prasenjeet Yadav. Below: Michael Nichols, Andy Mann, Paul Nicklen, Ami Vitale, Christian Tryon, Kenneth Garrett, Mark Thiessen.