13-Year-Old from Kerala Becomes One of the Youngest to Conquer Mount Kilimanjaro

Anna Mary, 13-year-old from Cherthala in Kerala's Alappuzha area, has created history by climbing Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa's tallest mountain in an inspirational display of will and fortitude. She became one of the youngest to reach the summit on November 7, standing an amazing 18,885 feet above sea level.

Starting on November 1 and travelling with her father, Shine Varghese, along the picturesque Lemosho Route, Mary's ascent of Kilimanjaro started Offering trekkers views of rainforests, moorlands, and alpine deserts, this path is well-known for its slow ascent and breathtaking scenery. Mary and her father travelled 68 kilometres via varied terrain and difficulties over seven days. The Barranco Wall, a steep rock face, became one of their toughest challenges. But Mary approached it with assurance and will, drawing on her skill in artificial wall climbing.

Mary's success is even more remarkable since she performed taekwondo poomsae (patterns) and kicks at the top of the mountain, therefore surpassing the summit! This particular homage to her love of athletics highlights her constant dedication to adventure and exercise. Her passion for taekwondo and athletics in general helped her to keep going on the demanding climb; she hopes her tale will motivate others to keep active and healthy.

For the young trailblazer, this is only one adventure. Mary started her quest of climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in July when she conquered Friendship Mount in the Himalayas. Her best aim is To ascend each of the seven continents' tallest mountains, the Seven Summits Mary got the moniker "Simba," or lion, from the local guide after her will and bravery on display throughout the Kilimanjaro climb. Among a group of hikers from nations like the US, Germany, and China, she and her father were the only Indians climbing.

Mary, a Class VIII student at St. Mary's High School in Cherthala, dreams greatly for her future. She is young, yet already she is focused on other significant concerns. Her accomplishment should also motivate others to lead active and healthy lives, she believes. "Get addicted to sports, not drugs," Mary advises her friends to start physical activities that would help their bodies and brains.

Over Mary's path, her parents, Shine Varghese and Preethi Maria Thomas, both IT experts, have been quite helpful. They have been at her side, inspiring her to celebrate the successes and get through trying circumstances. Mary's success has been much influenced by their encouragement since she keeps shattering stereotypes and demonstrating to the world that age is no limit in terms of following aspirations.

One thing is evident as Mary anticipates her next travels: she is only starting.

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