In 2019 we started our sister non-profit, The Carabiner Collective, to support more people with access to the outdoors and remove barriers to entry in adventure travel. One of the ways we do this is through Trailblazer Awards, which celebrate people who are breaking stereotypes and leading by example in their communities, creating a ripple effect of change.
This nurturing style of leadership is so inherent in mothers and mothering people. That's why we've selected TWO Trailblazer Awardees for our February 2025 Kilimanjaro Climb! This extra special Kilimanjaro climb isn't like all our others. We partnered with Adventure Mamas Initiative and ROOT to take mamas up the mountain, guiding them through tailored mindfulness and awareness practices geared at forging a deeper connection to nature and oneself. It's a chance for mothering people to take time for themselves, and tap into their identity beyond "mama."
Meet our first 2025 Trailblazer Awardees, Soofia and Leisa!
MEET SOOFIA
Lives In: New Orleans, Louisiana
Works As: Occupational Therapist
Mom To: 17-year-old daughter
Soofia immigrated to America from Pakistan as a child, and is turning 40 this year! She’s a single mother who strives to be an example of kindness and positive growth for her daughter and her community. We asked her to share a bit about her first adventures with her daughter, and what climbing Kilimanjaro means to her.
"I have taken my daughter on annual camping trips since she was 5 years old. I bought a second hand tent and sleeping bag and we drove off to the Grand Canyon. The wind gusts at the top of the North Rim were powerful, so much so that our little tent was thrashing around as I tried to set it up. I remember unzipping the door and throwing all our bags in and placing my bundled up toddler inside as I fed the lines through the poles and staked everything down. That was an adventure, to be able to quickly find a solution to set up our home for the evening. It also provided proof that I could be a solo woman in the outdoors, that I was capable, that I could navigate care of myself and my child in tough difficult circumstances.
My fundamental worldview is that everything and everyone is connected. Your struggle is my struggle, and your growth is my growth. I believe in empowerment, in lifting each other up. Each and every opportunity to connect with people expands my community which in turn bridges gaps and narrows the divide. What I learn in turn, I will share and teach. Hiking Kilimanjaro with a community of diverse strong women would be a wonderful experience that would allow for even more growth and empowerment."
MEET LEISA
Lives In: Seattle, Washington
Works As: Lawyer
Mom To: a 17-year-old son, 11-year-old twin daughters, 10-year-old daughter
Leisa is a single 51-year-old mom of four who sees this trip as representative of the struggles she’s been through, and hopes to leave in the past once and for all. She shared with us the importance of setting an example as a mom, and the power of committing to and sharing your journey.
"I think as a mom one of the most important lessons we can teach our children is how we get back up. That we are all stronger than we know. During the dark times I wouldn't have made it without all the women in my life.
For me, [hiking Kilimanjaro] will kick off my 2nd half. Leave the past in the past. I'm looking forward to new friendships and the sisterhood of it all. I am expecting to have to dig deep. I'm ready for this challenge and for this mountain to kick my ass. I feel I have already started my journey with my training and planning. It may sound corny but once I knew I was going to do it I felt lighter. Like I had something for me to selfishly do and plan for.
I can already envision and anticipate all the questions from my girls, mainly because we are very much planning together from what color my Gortex should be, pooping while camping, and lion safety on the safari! The ripple effect will be that I can bring my stories and my journey to them. And hopefully some camping and trail skills to be able to feel comfortable camping with them more."
Inspired to help get our next round of women out on their own life-changing adventure? Consider donating to The Carabiner Collective and join us in building a stronger, more diverse outdoor community!
