Introducing Yonder: Democratising Exploration & Access to Cultural Heritage Sites with WebXR

Have you ever dreamt of diving at the Great Barrier Reef, or standing at the foot of one of the great pyramids of Egypt? Unfortunately, for many of us, these experiences remain out of reach due to geographical limitations, physical constraints, or budgetary concerns. At PHORIA, we're passionate about using technology to bridge this gap and forge new pathways for connecting people with place.?

Yonder, our latest endeavour, embodies that passion by offering a unique experience where you can explore iconic landmarks and cultural treasures from any web enabled device, anywhere in the world.

We believe every place has a unique soul, rich with history, culture, and environmental significance waiting to be discovered. With Yonder, you can uncover these hidden stories and deepen your connection with the world.

The Vision and Mission of Yonder

Our vision for Yonder is to create an accessible and sustainable virtual repository of humanity's most treasured landmarks. By capturing them in 3D detail, we not only ensure their preservation for future generations, but help to build a deeper understanding of their significance. We've also embedded rich and mixed media across the platform to really tell the story behind each site.

This vision is inextricably linked to our mission: To democratise access to global cultural and heritage sites by providing a space where anyone can explore the architectural marvels of the Bagan Temple Complex in Myanmar, explore a majestic waterfall in the heart of the Daintree Rainforest, or wander the hallowed halls of historic buildings like the Church of Saint Sophia in Macedonia, all from the comfort of their own home or classroom.

Yonder removes the barriers to traditional travel, opening a gateway to a universe of knowledge and cultural appreciation for a global audience.

The Power of Storytelling

One of the core pillars of Yonder's philosophy lies in its democratic approach to storytelling. We are actively inviting creators from all corners of the globe, from cultural institutions to heritage site managers and community members, to contribute their unique narratives and perspectives to the platform.

This collaborative approach offers a multitude of benefits.?

Visitors gain access to a richer tapestry of experiences that enable them to discover the true essence of a place.?

Cultural institutions can extend their reach far beyond the physical limitations of their buildings, driving global engagement and appreciation for their collections.?

Most importantly, Yonder provides a platform for diverse voices and perspectives to be heard, ensuring a more inclusive and representative portrayal of global cultural heritage.

The Impact of Immersive Education

What we’re really excited about with Yonder is that it ushers in a new era of immersive education where classrooms can be transported not just across geographic borders, but across time itself.

This kind of interactive learning experience helps create deeper engagement with what is being taught, transforming education from rote memorisation to a journey of discovery. For example, a whole classroom of students will be able to virtually explore the Great Barrier Reef, not just by watching a video or reading about it, but feeling like they're actually there, swimming alongside the vibrant fish or getting lost in the intricate microscopic details of baby corals.

That kind of experience sparks a whole different level of passion – a passion for protecting our planet, for understanding different cultures, and for the wonders of the world around us. Yonder can level the playing field, giving everyone access to knowledge and empowering future generations to be informed citizens and engaged custodians of the world.

In that sense, Yonder lends itself to being a tool for cultural exchange too. Students in a busy city can virtually visit a site nestled in the mountains, learning about the history and traditions of the local people. Likewise, those in more remote communities can explore bustling cities and diverse cultures, creating a sense of global citizenship.?

All you need is a web enabled device.

Experience It For Yourself

I really see Yonder as a bridge for connecting people with place, driving a deeper appreciation for the cultural and historical treasures that illuminate our planet. By embracing a collaborative storytelling approach, we hope to democratise access to knowledge and create a passion for exploration and preservation.

Explore it for yourself today and discover the world anew: https://yonder.earth/??

Become a Partner

Cultural institutions and creators are also encouraged to partner with us and contribute their stories. Get in touch with me directly or visit https://yonder.earth/partner to learn more about the exciting? immersive education opportunities we are leading!?