More than half of Brits couldn’t name a female explorer off the top of their heads, with only 16% learning about them during school, college or university. However, when it comes to male explorers, the average Brit can name between 2-3 off the top of their head, with Charles Darwin, Marco Polo, and Christopher Columbus being the most recognised.
Despite Dorothy Pilley’s achievements, including being one of the first female mountaineers, who extensively traveled the Pyrenees, Mount Fuji and the Himalayas, only 3% can recognise her.
In an effort to rewrite the history books, OnePlus has partnered with three female explorers, led by Elise Wortley, founder of the Woman With Altitude initiative, for an expedition. Elise, who will be in historically-accurate clothing will be joined by Spanish record-breaking mountaineer Edurne Pasaban, and former Miss Finland turned explorer; Lotta Hintsa. This will commemorate the historic expedition of Dorothy Pilley across Corsica, from Bastia to the summit of Monte Cinto, which took place in 1922.
Elise 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.”
Celina Shi, Chief Marketing Officer, OnePlus Europe said “It has never been more important to pay homage to the pioneering women that paved the way before us. There are so many fascinating expeditions led by women that still are forgotten, so we’re delighted to be working with Elise, Lotta and Edurne on this ‘Women with Altitude’ adventure.”
OnePlus’ research also revealed trailblazing women who inspire the most include Amelia Earhart, Jessica Ennis-Hill and Greta Thunberg.