Katia Macias Diaz

What’s the work that you do?

I am the co-founder of the Antarctic Youth Coalition. I led the Antarctic Youth Coalition Punta Arenas chapter and now I am coordinating the Hobart Chapter. I am also working as a Development and Operations Coordinator at the Mawson’s Huts Foundation where I support daily operations at the Mawson’s Huts Replica Museum and coordinate fundraising and sponsorship activities.

What keeps you going?

I love how Antarctica proves to me every day that you do not need to go there or be a scientist to engage with it or care for its future. By bringing Antarctica closer to the community, people become protectors – I have witnessed this over the years, especially with children and youth.

What’s your message to the world?

I like to see the world from the perspective of the butterfly effect – what we do in our cities or in our homes does have an impact on the rest of the world. I also believe that you shouldn’t do things that do not bring you reward or happiness. What rewards me personally is Antarctica and its importance. It brings me joy to see the million of different ways that people can engage with it.