What makes WINGS WorldQuest unique?
WINGS WorldQuest is the only organization that provides unrestricted funding to high-achieving women in science, exploration and conservation. Since 2003, WINGS has been a pioneer and leader in advancing the trailblazing work, significant accomplishments and innovative mindsets of visionary women explorers.
Even as the world faces new, unprecedented challenges, with a growing need for creative problem-solving and collaboration, their work is under-funded and cited less than men’s work of equal merit. In our 20th Anniversary year, WINGS continues to fill the gap at higher and higher levels of commitment and impact, narrowing the discrepancies in opportunities, status and attitudes for women explorers, and elevating female role models for the next generation of bold thinkers and STEM pathfinders.
What is the mission of WINGS?
WINGS funds, elevates and builds community around visionary women leaders pushing the boundaries of science, exploration and conservation. More than US$1 million in grants have been awarded to 150+ women across more than 80 countries.
What programs does WINGS offer?
The Fellows Program awards $10,000 grants to fund pioneering women scientists and explorers, their groundbreaking work, and their impact on humanity through bold research, conservation and exploration projects.
The Flag Carrier Program awards $1,000-$5,000 grants supporting critical expeditions, projects and field work that help us understand and safeguard our planet.
WINGS’s network and outreach programs, such as Explorer Talks and WINGS Webinars, provide a platform for these scientists and explorers to amplify their work, inspire rising young female problem-solvers, and foster a community dedicated to innovative thinking and a more hopeful future.
Who are these remarkable explorers and scientists? A small sampling of more than 150 bold and innovative thinkers...
Sylvia Earle
Marine scientist leading the world’s ocean conservation effort · Founded Mission Blue to affect public action and policy by leading research expeditions, creating documentaries, and convening world leaders in ocean conservation
Ann Bancroft
First woman to cross the ice to both poles · Led first team of US women across Greenland · Led first all-female expedition to the South Pole · First woman, along with Fellow Liv Arnesen, to ski unsupported across Antarctica
Asha de Vos
Marine biologist, and pioneer of blue whale research · First and only Sri Lankan to receive a PhD in Marine mammal research · Founded Oceanswell, Sri Lanka’s first marine conservation research and education non-profit
Gladys Kalema-Zikusoka
First wildlife veterinary officer for Uganda · Founder of Conservation Through Public Health · Dedicated to the coexistence of endangered mountain gorillas, other wildlife, humans, and livestock in Africa
WINGS Women of Discovery Awards 2018 - 2019
2018 Awards