Everest '07 - Team Diary

Postscript - October 2007

We’ve been back in the UK for three weeks and Everest '07 already seems a million years ago. Uni and jobs (and a wedding in the team) have been at the forefront. But the life-enhancing experience is still much in the daily thoughts and actions of the team and our families.

On return, it was clear that we were so blessed. A large number of commercial teams and independent travellers were stalled or aborted by the unseasonally severe weather. Several more were stranded by the collapsed bridge at Phunki Tenga. We were the only group, at that time, to go as far as we did and manage to get in and out of the mountains.

Anyone who has been in the region in good conditions might not understand the challenge. Those who have been there at its worst, were sympathising and expected us to come home. But we stuck with it and achieved pretty much what we set out to do. And more.

Much of that success is down to the upbringing and planned structure that Girlguiding gives each of its members. The advance research, risk assessment, physical training and skills learning meant that we had answers before the scenarios were thrown at us. Undeniably, the knowledge and resourcefulness of our lead members and the locals was a huge advantage. But the fundamental difference, was communication, faith, teamwork and an attitude to face challenges head on. These are intrinsically Guiding traits, understated by all and appreciated by everyone we encountered along the way.

The trek didn’t set out to change the world or shout loudly about what it hoped to achieve, but it has been a good-sized pebble sending purposeful ripples out to a wider pond.

 We have an experienced team that wants to do more.
 We have progressive sponsors who have seen the reciprocal difference their CSR help can make.
 We have helped raise the profile of Girlguiding UK high and wide.
 We left a positive impression on the people and authorities in Nepal.
 And, as a direct result, there are an increasing number of young women and volunteers alert to the opportunities that life holds for them.

We dearly hope more girls and leaders will now head to the Himalayas, to stand with friends, in the fellowship of Girlguiding, for a moment in time, on top of the world.