B.I.G North Pole Expedition
For two seasons, I embarked on an unforgettable journey with the B.I.G North Pole team, skiing across the Arctic to collect crucial data on microplastics and black carbon. Facing extreme conditions, every step we took was a step for science - uncovering the hidden traces of pollution in one of the most remote places on Earth. As a filmmaker, I had the privilege of documenting the entire expedition, capturing the raw beauty of the Arctic and the relentless dedication of our team. Seeing our journey come to life through film is a reminder of why storytelling and science go hand in hand. But the work doesn't stop here. Our research continues at the National Oceanographic Centre and the University of Colorado, where scientists are analysing the data we gathered to better understand climate change and its global impact. Science has no borders, and neither does curiosity.
Lettre au Baïkal
In 2020, I embarked on a deeply personal journey to Lake Baikal, driven by a need to connect with the natural world on a profound level. Alone and traveling by foot with a pulka, I sought a deeper understanding of the lake’s environmental significance and the spiritual connection it holds. The experience became transformative, revealing an undeniable bond with the lake’s ancient energy, which I still feel today. Lionel Thillet joined me to film the expedition from a distance, capturing the pristine beauty of Baikal and the traditional communities living along its shores. The year of my journey marked the warmest recorded year in Siberia, amplifying my commitment to climate change awareness. Upon returning just as the pandemic began, we edited the film, which was later bought by Ushuaia TV and premiered in 2021. The film, "Letter to Baikal," represents not just a documentary, but a message to reconnect with our planet, embrace our spiritual beings, and honor the fragile ecosystems that sustain us.
The Women’s Ice Gorge into Zanskar Expedition Trek 2019
Expedition Overview: The Kingdom of Zanskar is one of the most remote regions in the far north of India. During the harsh winter months, the high mountain passes become impassable due to heavy snowfall. The only link to the outside world is the legendary Chadar, a frozen river that has served as a lifeline for the Zanskari people for centuries. Navigating this sheer-sided gorge on foot requires skill, endurance, and the guidance of experienced local ice pilots. However, the Chadar is changing. A new road under construction will soon replace the traditional frozen route, and climate change is accelerating the transformation of the river ice. This expedition sought to experience the historic journey before these changes irreversibly alter life in Zanskar. Expedition Journey: The expedition began in New Delhi, followed by a scenic flight to Leh, where the team acclimatized to the high-altitude environment and explored the region's monasteries and stupas. From Leh, a three-hour bus ride led to the trek's starting point. For five days, the team navigated the frozen Zanskar River, camping in caves and along the riverbanks while braving temperatures as low as -30°C. The trek continued into Zanskar, where the group stayed with local families in homestays, gaining firsthand insight into Zanskari culture and traditions. A special focus was placed on visiting and supporting local women's initiatives, highlighting the role of women in the region's evolving society. The return journey followed the same path, racing against the seasonal thaw. An additional day was planned to account for unpredictable weather conditions before flying back from Leh to New Delhi. Challenges and Achievements: •Navigating the frozen Chadar under extreme winter conditions •Trekking at altitudes reaching 3,690m •Carrying personal gear while traversing icy terrain •Adapting to the rapidly changing environment due to climate shifts •Engaging with local communities to understand their traditions and the impact of modernization Legacy of the Expedition: The Women’s Ice Gorge into Zanskar Expedition was more than just an adventure; it was an opportunity to witness a vanishing way of life, embrace the resilience of the Zanskari people, and reflect on the profound connection between humans and nature. This journey stands as a testament to the endurance of both the explorers and the locals who have relied on the Chadar for generations.
Unforgettable Journeys: Moments That Shaped Me
Throughout my years of exploration and filmmaking, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the raw beauty of our world and the incredible stories it holds. Each expedition has shaped me, deepened my understanding of different cultures, and strengthened my connection to nature. But beyond the landscapes and wildlife, it’s the extraordinary people I’ve met and worked with—fellow filmmakers, scientists, explorers, and local communities—who have truly enriched this journey. Their passion, knowledge, and generosity have inspired me and made me a better person. These moments—whether in the frozen silence of the Arctic, the vastness of the savannah, or the hidden corners of ancient traditions—have not only defined my work but also deepened my appreciation for the world and those who dedicate their lives to telling its stories. Here are some of the memories that remind me how fortunate I am to have lived these experiences.
