We are proud to share the inspiring journey of Dr Iz Avery-Phipps (Class of 2015), who has recently returned to the UK after completing a remarkable 9,000km cycling expedition across continents, all without taking a single flight.

Iz told us “I wanted to explore other countries and cultures with the lowest carbon footprint possible. Travelling by bike gave me that opportunity, and so much more.”

Setting off in December 2023, Iz’s ambitious route took them from the UK to Morocco, through the vast landscapes of North Africa, and across Europe, culminating in Sweden for their brother (OT, Class of 2009) Rob Avery-Phipps’ wedding. Along the way, they embraced a truly immersive travel experience, staying with 78 different households across 10 countries, and forging lasting connections, especially with several Moroccan families who welcomed them into their homes in remote desert regions.

“We were blown away by the warmth and hospitality of people we met.
Sharing meals and stories with strangers-turned-friends was a highlight of the journey.”

Iz travelled for the first nine months alongside their friend Zoe, a fellow member of their university mountaineering society. Together, they camped through icy mountain ranges, coastal cliffs, and arid deserts, demonstrating resilience, sustainability, and a deep curiosity for the world.

A 2015 leaver, Iz graduated from the University of Sheffield in 2021 with a degree in Medicine, earning a First-Class Honours in Medical Research (BMedSci) and founding Healthy Planet Sheffield, a student-led society focused on promoting environmental sustainability in healthcare.

“Healthcare and climate justice go hand in hand.
We need future medics who care about both.”

While working as a junior doctor in the East Midlands, Iz began dreaming and planning a year-long cycling expedition that would combine their passions for travel, sustainability, and human connection. Their goal: a year of adventure without aviation.

After reaching Sweden in time for Rob’s wedding and reuniting with their family, Iz completed the final three months of the journey solo, returning home in December 2024.

Now back in the UK, Iz has resumed their work as a doctor while also giving back to the cycling community. They volunteer as a bike mechanic at Women in Tandem, a Nottingham-based charity helping women gain the confidence to cycle. Last month, their Women in Tandem talk ‘A Year on Two Wheels’ sold out within a week and drew a packed audience eager to hear about their extraordinary journey.

Iz is now preparing to apply for the next stage of their training to become a General Practitioner, continuing their path of care, advocacy, and adventure.

“The bike ride might be over, but the journey continues.
I’m excited for what’s next, both in medicine and in life.”

Read Iz and Zoe's adventure blog here