This year, we had the privilege of witnessing extraordinary women redefine limits and inspire us with their unwavering strength, resilience, and love for the outdoors. These five remarkable women stood out in 2024, leaving an indelible mark on the trails and in our hearts.
1. Swabra Swaleh: Three Peaks, One Journey
A mother of five and an obstetrician based in Mombasa, Swabra Swaleh embarked on a journey to the Rwenzori Mountains with a goal to summit Margherita Peak. However, her determination and spirit took her further than she initially planned. Not only did she stand tall at Margherita Peak, but she also summited Mount Baker and Mount Speke. Swabra’s resilience and strength remind us that we are capable of far more than we imagine. Her journey is a testament to the power of belief and perseverance. To more mountains, Swabra!
2. Jebichi Maswan: Everest Basecamp at 60
Jebichi Maswan has been part of our hiking family for years, but 2024 was a year of milestones for her. At 60, Jebichi fulfilled her dream of trekking to Everest Basecamp in April. Her journey was one of meticulous preparation, with multiple climbs under her belt, including Mount Kenya, Mount Meru, and an effortless summit of Mount Kilimanjaro via the Rongai Route in 2021. Jebichi’s story is a powerful reminder that age is just a number when it comes to living your dreams. Keep climbing, Jebichi!
3. Julliet Mutune: The North Face Dreamer
Julliet Mutune, an Events Planner with a relentless spirit, took on one of Africa’s most challenging high-altitude climbs: the North Face of Batian on Mount Kenya. Her journey began with a spark of passion during a rock climbing session at Hell’s Gate in February. That moment ignited a dream, and Julliet dedicated countless hours to training amidst her busy schedule. Though she didn’t reach the summit, her journey to the base of Firmin’s Tower was an incredible achievement. Julliet’s discipline and childlike enthusiasm for learning inspire us all. Here’s to more attempts and summits in the future, Julliet!
4. Margaret Mbuthi: Redefining What’s Possible
At 56, Clinical Psychologist and Child Therapist Margaret Mbuthi amazed us with her fearless approach to life. After months of preparation, including rock climbing at Hell’s Gate, Lukenya, and Blue Sky Gym, she set out to climb the little known Point Peter in Mount Kenya via the Sirimon Route in August. Despite a challenging trek to Shipton Camp under heavy rain, Margaret’s spirit remained unshaken. The next morning, she proudly set her feet on summit, proving that challenges make us strong and when we put our mind to it, nothing can stop us. Margaret, thank you for inspiring us all to redefine our possibilities!
5. Joyce Gachiri: A True Trailblazer
At 62, Joyce Gachiri’s trek to Everest Basecamp and an attempt at Lobuche Peak (6119m) in the Everest region was a highlight of 2024. A former UN expat, Joyce has dedicated her life to exploring the world through hiking. She has summited nearly every identifiable peak in East Africa, including Mount Kilimanjaro, Margherita on the Rwenzori, Mount Meru, and Point Lenana on Mount Kenya. Her plans for the next two years include a revisit of a 6000m peak in Nepal, Mt. Toubkal, Mont Blank and Aconcagua. Because why dream small? Joyce’s story is a powerful testament to the strength of the human spirit and the boundless possibilities of adventure. Thank you, Joyce, for showing us that exploration has no age limit.
Honoring Their Legacy
These women are living proof that the trails are for everyone. Their stories remind us that strength isn’t just about reaching summits; it’s about daring to start the journey. They’ve shown us that with determination, resilience, and a love for adventure, anything is possible.
As we look ahead to 2025, we carry their stories with us, inspired to dream bigger and climb higher. To Swabra, Jebichi, Julliet, Margaret, and Joyce—thank you for lighting the way and showing us what’s possible when we dare to push our limits.
Here’s to even more incredible adventures in the year to come!
