About Us

Mission Statement

Founded in 2007, The Shackleton Foundation's mission is to support individuals of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds who exemplify the spirit of Sir Ernest Shackleton: inspirational leaders wishing to "make a difference", in particular to the less advantaged.

For more information download our leaflet.

Vision

Sir Ernest Shackleton is widely known as one of the most inspirational leaders of the twentieth century.

Whilst he never achieved his personal dream of being the first to reach the South Pole, his reputation as a leader of men is based on a still greater success: the survival and safe return of all of his team members, whilst overcoming almost unimaginable odds. Shackleton's name lives on as a synonym for courage, bravery and most of all, leadership.

Shackleton's era of heroic exploration is now long gone. However, The Shackleton Foundation believes innumerable and significant challenges still exist where the rallying power and indomitable spirit of Shackleton is needed, in order to make a tangible contribution to the greater good.

Thomas Pynchon wrote "Everyone has an Antarctic". The Foundation exists to support and encourage people who may not otherwise have the opportunity to identify and cross their own Antarctic, particularly where the applicant's chosen project can be shown to directly benefit the less advantaged. Whilst we support projects within and outside the physical arena, it is evidence of Shackleton's spirit that we seek.

We believe that singular people making singular contributions to the public good can act as beacons of inspiration, and we wish to support them in their endeavours.

The Foundation hopes that beneficiaries will develop or possess the personal qualities that define leadership: a fierce personal commitment to succeed, a willingness to take intelligent risks, and the ability to inspire and energise those around them to do their utmost towards worthwhile causes.

History

Founded by descendants of the original Nimrod expedition, The Shackleton Foundation was founded in 2007 as a way of celebrating the legacy of the great man in a 21st century context.

Objectives

The charity's objects are, for the public benefit, to:

1. Provide financial support to people of any age, background and nationality who exemplify the spirit and leadership qualities of Sir Ernest Shackleton, in particular where their leadership brings benefit to the less advantaged;

2. Commemorate the life and achievements of Sir Ernest Shackleton by such means as the Directors shall determine.

3. Advance the education of the public in any recognised academic discipline that touches upon the life and achievements of Sir Ernest Shackleton, including but not limited to leadership, history, geography, geology, photography, and climatology.

4. To advance such other lawful charitable purposes as the Directors shall in their absolute discretion determine.