Al-Qalam 
By Azra Hoosen
When Aaminah Choonara (Grade 11) from Lenasia Muslim School first learned that she made the Top 20 in the Students in Antarctica (SIA) 2025 competition, she screamed, cried and told everyone she loved.
But the weeks that followed, from 19th November to December 1st, were nerve-wracking. Between public voting and recording a video about why she should be chosen, the wait became a full emotional rollercoaster. “There were moments I wondered if someone from Lenasia could really stand out among entries from across Africa,” said Aaminah.
This week, the wait ended with the best possible news: Aaminah was officially selected as one of the Top five winners, securing an all-expenses-paid scientific expedition to Antarctica, valued at R1-million. The journey will span nine days, beginning with her departure to Cape Town on 8 December, followed by a polar-bound flight to Antarctica on 11 December and concluding with her return to Johannesburg after the expedition.
More than personal excitement, Aaminah told Al-Qalam that she felt a huge sense of responsibility. “We now carry the hopes of so many young African learners and I want to make everyone who believes in me proud,” she said.
Founded by renowned explorer Riaan Manser, the Students in Antarctica programme invites Grade 11 pupils from across Africa to compete for a rare opportunity: an immersive expedition to the coldest, most environmentally unique continent on Earth. The competition aims to expose young Africans to environmental science, climate literacy and the fragile ecosystems of the Antarctic region.
What makes Aaminah’s story unique is not just her achievement, but the way she roots her environmental passion in Islamic teachings. “Caring for the environment isn’t something extra we do when we have time; it’s who we are meant to be,” she said.
Aaminah references the well-known hadith: “If Qiyaamah begins and one of you has a sapling in his hand, let him plant it.” To her, this is not metaphorical, it is a call to action.
She said that Islamic teachings shaped her relationship with the planet: “The Qur’aan constantly calls us to reflect on creation – earth, sky, water and all living things. As Allah’s deputies on earth, we’re responsible not just for how we treat people, but for caring for the environment He has entrusted to us.”
In her submission, she emphasised the often-unheard voices of African youth and the trust Allah places on communities as custodians of the Earth. “We have this beautiful blend of faith that tells us the earth is an Amanah (trust) and the energy of youth that refuses to wait for permission. I see us leading by example: showing that protecting the planet isn’t “someone else’s issue”; it’s part of living our deen fully, and doing it with joy, creativity and inclusivity so that everyone feels invited to join,” she said.
Aaminah told Al-Qalam that Antarctica feels almost mythical – remote, pristine and yet deeply connected to all of us through climate and rising seas. “It’s a place that reminds you of nature’s power and our duty to protect it and I’m certain I’ll return with a stronger sense of purpose,” she said.
Even before she knew she had won, Aaminah had already dreamt up what she hopes will become her long-term contribution: From Ice to Life – a campaign translating Antarctica’s melting ice into relatable stories for South Africans. The idea is to help especially vulnerable and coastal communities understand how climate change affects food security, storms, flooding and daily life. “I hope to turn this into workshops, school and madrassah talks and simple social-media explainers that make the science real and personal,” said Aaminah.
The excitement is palpable as she now prepares for the ultimate student adventure – everything from travel, gear, training and accommodation is fully covered. The journey promises to be once-in-a-lifetime: part science lab, part survival lesson and part dream.
Aaminah’s selection is more than a personal win; it is a signal to young Muslims that they belong in global scientific spaces. As she journeys from Lenasia to Antarctica, she carries not only the aspirations of her family and school, but the values of her faith and perhaps opens a pathway for many more to follow.
