Episode 127: Emily Hulbert

The Water Cycle – A Bike Adventure With Extra Purpose

Going on a solo bicycle adventure around the world is no small feat, yet for guest Emily Hulbert has undertaken this journey with a purpose—delivering clean drinking water to communities desperately in need. In this episode Emily shares her experiences so far and the profound mission behind her project, “The Water Cycle.”

From Australia to the Himalayas: A Journey of Discovery

Em’s adventure began in Australia, where she and her best friend, Ben, cycled from Perth to Darwin, navigating the rugged trails of the Gibb River Road. The corrugated roads there were seriously no joke but despite the challenges of harsh weather, relentless bush flies, and having to negotiate creek crossings with the threat of salt water crocodiles nearby, the scenery and the encounters with local indigenous communities offered a unique experience of Australia’s vast landscapes.

Crossing into Southeast Asia, Emily’s travels brought her to the cultural tapestry of China, where she cycled through the majestic snow-capped mountains of Yunnan. Emily teaches english as a second language to Chinese students so being able to travel in China, and meet her students was a magiv experience. As Emily can also speak Mandarin, she was able to connect more deeply with the locals, gaining insights into diverse cuisines and ethnic traditions.

The Mission: Clean Water for All

Em’s commitment to delivering water filters is fueled by a desire to bridge the gap between privilege and need. Inspired by her travels and a deep-seated empathy for those living without basic resources, she reached out to NGOs like Waves for Water to start distributing filters across rural villages.

Her concept, aptly named the Water Cycle, relies on the simple, yet powerful, act of sharing life-changing water filters. Whether arranged through partnerships with organisations or given directly to communities she visits, each water filter is a step towards reducing plastic waste and ensuring access to safe drinking water.

Life on the Road: Challenges and Triumphs

So far on the journey it hasn’t all been easy going. Em has encountered a multitude of challenges, from dealing with mechanical failures (such as the day she broke 12 spokes!!!) to enduring treacherous conditions like corrugations and headwinds. Yet, her resilient spirit remains unshaken and she credits her ability to remain positive to a deep sense of gratitude and a strong community of support, both from fellow travellers and the students she teaches online.

Building Connections Through Adventure

Deep down Em’s adventure is all about the connections she forms along her journey. Whether it’s playing soccer in indigenous Australian communities or engaging in spontaneous football games in Vietnamese villages, sport and camaraderie have become universal languages.

Moreover, her adventure serves as a powerful reminder of the disparity in global resource distribution, yet also the immense resilience and happiness found within communities living with less.

Join the Mission

Em/s Water Cycle is a poignant example of how one person can effect meaningful change. Think Global and Act Local as fellow adventurer Al Humphrey’s often says. She would love to have more people get on board with this initiative and she has invited other bike travellers to get involved with the Water Cycle project. Whether by carrying filters during their travels or supporting the initiative remotely.

For those looking to contribute, Em’s journey highlights the impact of small actions. Each filter means less plastic pollution and many more people accessing clean water. Through sharing stories and inspiring a sense of global community, Em hopes to foster a movement of travellers who lead with purpose.

You can follow Em’s journey and learn more about how to support the Water Cycle by connecting with her on social media at @EmHulbert.

Reflections on Adventure and Community

As she pedals from Southern Asia to the Himalayas, Em’s story weaves together the threads of adventure, community, and purpose. Her journey is a testament to the power of doing good while pursuing one’s passions. The world may feel big, but with every filter delivered and every kilometre pedalled, Em is closing that gap, one bicycle adventure at a time.

The Seek Travel Ride podcast