Sue Sturgeon, Chair of the Corporation at Activate Learning, has returned from “a trip of a lifetime”, a challenging Arctic circle expedition testing physical endurance and mental resilience, while offering powerful reflections on sustainability.
“I am just back from a trip of a lifetime, a trek in the Arctic National Park,” she said. “I, along with three other girls from my gym, joined a trip organised by Trident Adventure. Our ages range from 53 to 71 years old – I am just 68.75 years!”
The journey began with a sleeper train to Abisko Turiststation, before the group embarked on a 71km trek over four days using snowshoes, following the famous King’s Trail. Along the route, they stayed in remote mountain lodges at Abiskojaure and Alesjaure, where conditions were deliberately basic.
“The lodges are very rustic – no running water or electricity and a focus on community living,” Sue explained. “You are required to chop wood, collect water from the lake and keep the place clean and tidy.”
Protecting and respecting the surrounding environment
The experience offered a stark reminder of what low impact living looks like in practice, with a strong emphasis on personal responsibility and protecting the surrounding environment.
“To trek in this beautiful unspoilt part of the world was amazing,” she said. “Those who have responsibility for the Arctic National Park take it very seriously. You take what you bring in terms of rubbish, and the natural environment and wildlife habitats are carefully preserved.”
Alongside the trekking, the group embraced a range of challenges, from cross country skiing to survival skills.
“We tried cross country skiing – despite being a competent downhill skier, my attempts had a striking resemblance to Mr Bean. I simply couldn’t stop,” Sue laughed. “I also took part in an ice dip, immersing myself in a hole in the iced over lake, and we learned to build a snow shelter. These were real survival techniques.”
A physically and mentally demanding experience
The most demanding part of the expedition came on the second day.
“That was the most challenging – 21.5km uphill with very high winds in our face for the whole day, carrying a 13 kilo bergen on my back,” she said. “That day I certainly asked myself, why did I sign up for this? I really had to dig deep.”
For Sue, the decision to take on the challenge was rooted in a commitment to personal growth.
“Each year I like to complete one challenge and this year’s choice was completely out of my comfort zone,” she said. “It was about having a growth mindset – facing up to the challenge and persisting even when I am struggling.”
Reflecting on the experience, she admits there were moments of doubt.
“At one point I did allow self-doubt to creep in, when I thought I couldn’t complete the second leg,” she said. “I am so glad that I pushed that self-doubt away.”
Since returning home, Sue has reflected on the key principles that underpinned the expedition, which she believes translate directly into everyday life.
“Having arrived home, I have reflected on the actionable concepts that made the trip a success,” she said.
Preparation, organisation, resilience and teamwork
She summarises these through the acronym PORT:
“Preparation – both in terms of taking the appropriate equipment and the physical training needed.
“Organisation – making sure you manage your kit, your warmth, your food and fuel each day.
“Resilience – finding ways to keep going when things are tough. One of our group shared a podcast on breathing techniques, which I found really helpful.
“Teamwork – the strength of our team was amazing. We walked as a caterpillar, with the strongest at the front and back, sharing snacks, water and supporting each other throughout.
“The sum of the parts was so much greater,” she added. “Those four concepts spell PORT, which for me means coming home.”
An extraordinary leader that inspired
Sue credits the success of the expedition in part to the leadership of their guide.
“Our group leader, Nick Wildman from Trident Adventure, was brilliant – tough when he needed to be, but also making sure I didn’t fall on the ice,” she said.
Looking back, the experience has left a lasting impression.
“I am absolutely delighted to have completed this trek,” Sue said. “It is a life changing opportunity.”
