Q&A with Harpreet (Preet) Chandi MBE
Read our interview with 2025 Geographical Award recipient, Harpreet (Preet) Chandi MBE.
Harpreet (Preet) Chandi MBE is the 2025 Geographical Award recipient for expeditions that have had a significant impact in inspiring young people and the public.
What inspired you to first visit the South Pole?
"It was all about pushing boundaries. I knew absolutely nothing about Antarctica and that was the appeal. How incredible would it be to try something so far outside of my comfort zone?
"I wanted to show that it doesn’t matter where you’re from, what you look like and what your start point is. We can all learn and start, even if it’s from a Google search."
What has been the highlight of your career, regardless of how big or small, so far?
"I saw young girls dress up as me for World Book Day, some even had sleds and it was something I never imagined.
"Hearing from those who say they’ve been inspired to do something they never thought they could. That’s what makes all the challenges worth it."
What motivates your expeditions/what motivates you?
"When I was younger, I was often told what I couldn’t do a lot of things and encouraged to stay in a box. I wanted to break out of that, to challenge those limits, and show others that they can do the same.
"It’s about showing what’s possible, especially when the world tells you otherwise."
What is one thing you wish you had learned earlier in your career?
"That you don’t need to wait until you feel 'ready'. You can start before you’re fully confident. A lot of people might tell you to believe in yourself (which is easier said than done). When you don’t believe in yourself, do it anyway.
"You build belief by doing and failing and doing it again."
Photo from 23 January 2023
"I attempted to cross the landmass in Antarctica but failed to make it.
"This photo is taken on day 70, I have just finished my 70 day solo expedition covering 922 miles. I’m exhausted and disappointed I didn’t make it. This is the best failure I have ever had. I have always learnt more from my failures than any of my successes."
What are you looking forward to in the future? What’s next?
"The North Pole expedition is the big challenge on the horizon, and I’m currently deep in training and planning for it. But beyond that, I’m passionate about creating more inclusive spaces in the outdoors and encouraging people from all backgrounds to explore, grow, and push their limits.
"I’m also developing resources to support others in challenging themselves and stepping outside their comfort zones.
"I’m also supporting polar scientists with their expeditions, which has been a great way to combine exploration with research. It’s exciting to contribute to scientific understanding while continuing to push physical and mental boundaries."
Do you have any advice for someone wanting to go on challenging expeditions?
"Yes, start with what you have. You don’t need to have all the answers or the best kit from day one. Break things down, ask questions, do the research, and surround yourself with people who lift you up. Keep going, even when it gets uncomfortable."
What three words would you use to describe your life and work?
"Resilient. Purposeful. Evolving."
What legacy do you hope you’ll leave?
"To be someone people can relate to. I want others to see themselves in my story and feel like they can go out and achieve something that once felt out of reach. If I’ve inspired someone to take that first step, that means everything."
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