Plymouth explorer aims to raise £150,000 on Crowdcube

A West Country explorer is launching an online platform that will connect school children with people in work, inspired by his solo adventures to the North and South Poles.

Antony Jinman, from Plymouth, skied to the geographic North and South Poles, communicating with thousands of youngsters back in Britain on his journey via satellite phone and email, and using drone imagery to share the experience and inspire them, including the moment he reached the South Pole.

The 35-year-old, through his Education through Expeditions initiative, has already helped inspire youngsters through visiting hundreds of schools to talk about and answer questions on his adventures, exploration, science and climate change, backed by a website resource connecting polar scientists with schools.

Now www.liketobe.org is launching on Exeter-based crowdfunding website Crowdcube with the company aiming to raise £150,000 to build the team, based at Plymouth Science Park, and develop the online platform further.

Liketobe connects professionals, ranging from adventurers and scientists to engineers and Olympian athletes, with schoolchildren wanting to find out more about different jobs and careers.

“We have to inspire the next generation and help children realise their full potential,” said Antony, who grew up in Plymouth.

“Through my adventures, and talking with young people in schools across the South West, I’ve realised that there is something very special about connecting people who are passionate about their work with children starting to think about what they want to do in their life.

“Liketobe will be a resource for children, parents, schools and colleges with companies and organisations seeking to inspire the talent they need, be it out future doctors, nurses, scientists or engineers.”