Joan Pollock - Founder / Chair
Joan Pollock, a travel guide since 1977, has traversed the globe, documenting her journey through photography. Based in London, she embraces a nomadic lifestyle. Joan captures the essence of people, life, and cultures, forging connections with tribes and communities. Her nursing background enables her to provide occasional health checks, particularly for children, ingraining herself further within the communities she encounters.
As a Fellow of the Royal Geographic Society, Joan is committed to environmental and conservation causes. Her passion extends to Spiti, a stunning valley on the Tibetan Plateau in the Indian Himalayas, her spiritual haven. In 1993 Joan established Spiti Projects, a charity dedicated to enhancing the valley's health, hygiene, and general well-being. Her efforts have resulted in the construction of a hospital, school, and clinic. In 2015, a traditional mud-brick Community Centre, powered by solar energy, was inaugurated in Kaza, the valley's capital. Recognising its eco-friendly design, the United Nations Climate Change Conference honoured Spiti Projects with the Low Carbon award in 2016.
Joan's thirst for exploration continues as she leads tours to unconventional destinations, accompanying intrepid travellers. She looks forward to venturing to Kazakhstan and visiting remote nomadic communities in the upcoming year.
Joan's qualifications include RSCN and SRN (Registered Sick Children's Nurse), as well as being a Qualified Nurse, Tour Guide, City of London Guide and a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society.