Students plan epic climb in Africa to raise money for Mind

Two Exeter College students are planning on climbing Mount Kilimanjaro next summer to raise money for the college’s chosen charity, Mind.

Isla and Emily, who are in their final year studying BTEC Sport Science, say this is something they have always wanted to do. Emily has recently undergone serious surgery on both her legs, making this challenge even tougher. She is having a lot of physio to strengthen her muscles and is confident that she will be back on top form next summer. They are currently doing a lot of walking to train and hope to get out on Dartmoor soon to continue their training.

The hike will take nine days, an estimated five on the way up and four on the way down. They will be walking between 2-8 km a day, depending on altitude. The summit on Mount Kilimanjaro (Uhuru Peak) stands at 5,895m or 19,341 feet. They will have a guide with them and will be camping throughout the trek.

The girls say they are nervous and excited about it. Isla said:

Every now and then you get a little surge of panic because it's going to be really hard but afterwards we will get to say we have climbed a mountain so it will be worth it.”

Following college, Isla hopes to take a year out to travel before her next steps and Emily is currently applying to universities to study Sports Science.

When asked why they decided to do it and raise money for charity, Isla said:

It seemed like the right thing to do, it's good to have a cause other than yourself to do it for. Mental health is something that's been overlooked until recently so it's nice to help.” Emily added: “You never know when you might need it.”

If you would like to support Isla and Emily in their fundraising, please click this link to donate.