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Brits cannot identify feminine explorers as Charles Darwin tops historic figures listing

New research has revealed that only 3% of Brits can name a female explorer off the top of their heads, despite more than half (56%) wishing that they had learned about them during their time in education

The trio aims to commemorate the historic trek of mountaineering legend Dorothy Pilley
The trio aims to commemorate the historic trek of mountaineering legend Dorothy Pilley

Can you recall studying about female explorers during your school days? Or even name one? New research reveals that over half of Brits (53%) couldn’t name a female explorer spontaneously, with only 16% learning about them in school, college or university, despite 56% wishing they had.

However, when it comes to male explorers, the average Brit can name between 2-3 instantly, with Charles Darwin (82%), Marco Polo (75%), and Christopher Columbus (73%) being the most recognised.

Consequently, 84% of Brits believe that exploration has historically been seen as a male-dominated field and nearly 7 out of 10 (68%) believe that women are not at all represented in literature, media and educational materials. Despite Dorothy Pilley’s achievements, including being one of the first female mountaineers, who extensively travelled the Pyrenees, Mount Fuji and the Himalayas, only 3% can recognise her, yet half of respondents felt empowered after hearing her story.

New research reveals that over half of Brits (53%) couldn't name a female explorer
New research reveals that over half of Brits (53%) couldn’t name a female explorer

Currently, 59% of women don’t feel empowered when it comes to exploring with the primary reasons being a lack of confidence (39%), health or physical limitations (38%) and a fear of the unknown or unfamiliar (31%). Looking ahead, 64% feel that pioneering stories of women should be told more often in order to celebrate the achievements of women in history (67%), with a further 65% keen to ensure that women’s contributions are properly acknowledged.

OnePlus is shaking up the history books by teaming up with three intrepid female explorers for a ground-breaking expedition. Led by Elise Wortley, the powerhouse behind the Woman With Altitude initiative, the trio aims to commemorate the historic trek of mountaineering legend Dorothy Pilley, who conquered Corsica’s wild landscapes and Monte Cinto’s peak in 1922.

Dressed in period gear, Wortley will be pumped up with Spanish mountaineering marvel Edurne Pasaban and Lotta Hintsa, a former Miss Finland turned bold explorer.

OnePlus is shaking up the history books by teaming up with three intrepid female explorers
OnePlus is shaking up the history books by teaming up with three intrepid female explorers

Elise Wortley, from Woman With Altitude, said: “Dorothy Pilley should be essential learning for all of us and the fact that this pioneering woman doesn’t feature in our history books and culture is truly devastating. This fascinating woman was one of the first female mountaineers and trailblazing adventurers, who inspired so many generations of women that came after her, yet, only 3% of Brits can recognise her!

“There is so much we can still learn from women like Dorothy and thanks to OnePlus, I am as ready as ever to retrace her steps alongside Edurne and Lotta and we couldn’t be more excited to capture our journey through this expedition, bringing Dorothy Pilley’s incredible story to life and inspiring future generations to embrace adventure and exploration as she did.”

These trailblazing women will be documenting Dorothy Pilley’s journey using the new OnePlus 13, a device equipped with features designed to endure the rigours of an expedition. These include Glove Touch and Aqua Touch 2.0, which allow for seamless use even with wet or oily hands.

Additionally, the AI Intelligence search aids in route planning and adventure logistics, making it an ideal tool for this daring expedition. The Dual Exposure camera performs exceptionally well in challenging environments, ensuring every moment is captured.

OnePlus’ study has also unveiled that barrier-breaking women who lead innovation and inspire the most include Amelia Earhart (20%), Jessica Ennis-Hill (14%) and Greta Thunberg (13%). Indeed, 1 in 5 Brits confess they have stepped out of their comfort zone due to these pioneering women, with an additional 17% boosting their self-confidence as a result.

After the expedition, a documentary captured on the OnePlus13 device will be released. For more details, visit oneplus.com or follow @oneplus_europe on social media for updates and announcements.

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