Current position
Freelance writer, photographer and broadcaster. Managing Director, Freeflow, London
Journey of a Lifetime Award
In January 2005, Chris travelled to Ladakh in the Himalayas to live and travel with the Kharnak, a nomadic tribe, who travel across high valleys and mountain passes with yak and goat herds to find fresh pastures.
Chris' program focused on his attempts to reach the Kharnak in the worst winter for 32 years. Despite his horse dying, breaking a bone and being arrested by the Indian Army, Chris made it to the Kharnak's winter home, only to find a small number of the tribe there.
The tribe battles to maintain a traditional lifestyle in the face of the 21st century. Younger members of the Kharnak are lured to cities, not continuing a herding life.
The future is uncertain for these people, unless they are given autonomy over the pashmina market that they supply.
Since the Journey of a Lifetime Award
Since lecturing at the Society, Chris has been asked to write a book about the nomads of Ladakh.
Chris has continued to make radio shows for the BBC. In July 2006, he made a Radio 4 show about his time spent walking with the Papal Swiss Guard from Switzerland to Rome. He is currently working on a TV series about the world's great rivers.
Listen to Chris' Journey of a Lifetime BBC Radio 4 show