Budoor Hussain Al Ali first student in Western Region to discover Antarctica

The Western Region Development Council (WRDC) welcomed Budoor Hussain Al Ali, the student that completed her exploratory journey to the South Pole where she shared with the Council's staff the difficulties that were faced by the first female from the Western Region to step on the South Pole becoming a role model for determination and perseverance. Budoor completed her journey under the leadership of Sir Robert Swan and as part of "Antarctica 2041", which seeks to raise awareness about global warming, preserving Antarctica after the international treaty banning mining and drilling in the south polar region which expires in 2041. In addition, this program focuses on instilling a sense leadership, teamwork and personal development in all of the participants. Budoor is 19 years old, she's the eldest of four girls and lives in Madinat Zayed in the Western Region. She studies Electronic engineering and is in her first year. She loves travelling and overcoming new challenges, this is the main reason that led her to participate in this expedition. During her talk at WRDC, Budoor stated: "I am very happy that I had the opportunity to participate in this journey, which gave me the opportunity to represent the UAE and authentic Arab values. My participation confirmed the Country's commitment to protecting the environment and supporting the noble cause of Antarctica 2041 Expedition." "My trip to Antarctica was a great adventure for me; I acquired environmental knowledge and sustainable practices, I also learnt the role of preserving natural resources in balancing the ecosystem." She added. Budoor is committed on making use of all the knowledge and experience gained from her journey for the purpose of raising awareness about the importance of preserving the environment and conserving energy. She also calls upon the young generation to take on challenges and be adventurous in order to expand their horizons intellectually and scientifically. Obaid Khalfan Al Mazrouei, Investment Promotion and Public Relations Director said: "WRDC thrives continuously to develop a new generation with the necessary leadership skills in order to continue the journey of building a sustainable and effective economy in the UAE." Al Mazrouie: "Budoor's story is amongst the many success stories achieved by Emiratis; she now represents the aspiring young Emiratis who aims at achieving excellence in all sectors."