Summiting Kilimanjaro on International Women’s Day by Jane Ainslie
Standing on the roof of Africa on International Women’s Day felt symbolic in more ways than one. Reaching the summit of Kilimanjaro was always going to be an amazing experience, but this journey was made even more meaningful by the remarkable women who led us there.
Adventure travel and high-altitude in particular, has long been a male-dominated industry. Yet on this expedition I had the privilege of being guided by an extraordinary team of women: UK expedition leader, 7 summiteer and now very good friend, Jo Bradshaw, alongside two inspiring local mountain guides, Janeth and Judy.
Janeth and Judy are sisters, just in their late twenties, but their experience on the mountain far exceeds their years. Both began working on Kilimanjaro at the age of 18 as porters, an essential and demanding role that keeps every expedition moving. Day after day they carried loads of up to 25kg along the mountain’s challenging trails, gaining deep knowledge of the terrain and the rhythm of life on the mountain.
Through determination and dedication and with the offer of a scholarship they gradually progressed through the guiding pathway, training as assistant guides before eventually qualifying as full guides leading international expeditions.
Today, each of them has summited Kilimanjaro more than 70 times. It’s an extraordinary achievement by any standard, but even more impressive when you consider the barriers they have overcome. Female guides on Kilimanjaro remain unusual, and their journey into leadership roles on the mountain reflects resilience, perseverance and a deep passion for what they do.
Yet what makes Janeth and Judy truly exceptional goes beyond their professional achievements. When they are not working on the mountain, they dedicate their time, and a portion of their own salaries, to supporting underprivileged girls in their community. Many families cannot afford basic school supplies such as stationery and books, and girls struggle with access to sanitary towels. Janet and Judy help ensure that girls who might otherwise struggle can stay in school.
In doing so, they are not only guiding trekkers to the summit of Kilimanjaro; they are helping create opportunities for the next generation of young women in Tanzania.
Over the eight days we spent together on the mountain, their energy and belief in us was infectious. Their encouragement came exactly when it was needed most, during long climbs, cold nights and the final push to the summit.
Reaching the top was unforgettable, but the real privilege was spending time with women who embody such determination, generosity and leadership.
Their next mission is to complete a 12 hour speed climb of Kilimanjaro (for context my trip was 8 days!) both to inspire girls of what they are capable of and to continue raising funds to keep girls in school.
On International Women’s Day, standing at the summit of Kilimanjaro, I felt truly humbled by what these young women are achieving, both on the mountain and far beyond it.
Jane Ainslie
If you’re interested in taking on Kilimanjaro as part of our all-female team, click here for more info or get in touch. We love chatting all things Kili.
