Mattias Klum has been admitted as a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society, joining one of the world’s most distinguished communities dedicated to geography, exploration and a deeper understanding of our planet.

Founded in 1830, the Royal Geographical Society has supported exploration and geographical research for nearly two centuries. Its history is associated with figures including Ernest Shackleton, David Livingstone and pioneering explorer, writer and photographer Isabella Bird, while contemporary Fellows include Sir Michael Palin, Paul Rose and Dame Joanna Lumley.

“I’m delighted to have been admitted as a Fellow of the Royal Geographical Society. It is a wonderful honour to become part of this prestigious community,” says Mattias Klum.

Exploration has always been an integral part of Klum’s life and his work as an artist, NatGeo Explorer, photographer and filmmaker. Across expeditions, artistic projects, films, books, exhibitions and lectures, his work has shared a common purpose: to inspire a deeper understanding of how extraordinary our world is, and of the importance of protecting the biodiversity, ecosystems and cultures we risk losing.

The fellowship adds another distinguished international affiliation to Klum’s career. He is also a Fellow of The Explorers Club, National Geographic Society, Stockholm Resilience Centre and The Linnean Society of London.

Photo by Peter Neubauer