by Nyasha Mutena
Harare , Zimbabwe. (News of The South) – In the early morning today, Saray’s climb on Mount Everest was successful as she reached the highest point. “Nothing is impossible if we dare to dream it”, reports her website.
Saray Khumalo First African woman to climb Mount Everest
After multiple attempts, persistence saw her through her fourth endeavour, making her the first black African woman to conquer Everest. Prior to this climb, she was evacuated during an earthquake whilst manoeuvring the ascent on Mount Everest. She said she was grateful to be alive. And since she didn’t believe in giving up, that she would try again, and finally she has succeeded.
On average, it takes about two months to climb Mount Everest whose highest peak is 8 848 m above sea level. The challenges faced during mountain climbing include; avalanches, falling rocks, pneumonia and frostbites. Many people have attempted on the climb, some have given up on the way, whilst others have passed on or succumbed to the challenges faced. With all these factors, Saray had the determination to soar above and reach the highest point on the mountain. She has lifted the South African flag.
Sibusiso Vilane from Pretoria managed to climb Everest at the age of 32 on May 6, 2003, whilst Cathy O’ Dowd, also a South African, became the first woman to climb mountain Everest.
According to her website, she founded a climbing with a purpose initiative where she organises and partakes in climbs for charity. She has built a Kids Haven gym as well as the Mandela library amongst other charitable works in South Africa. One of her goals is to set an example for the upcoming generations. Whilst she is a mother and business executive, she still managed to follow her goals in life.
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