In September 2024, a team of brave trekkers took on the Kilimanjaro Challenge for a Cause, raising an incredible £84,000 for the Electrical Industries Charity (EIC). But for them, reaching the summit of the world’s highest free-standing mountain wasn’t the end—it was just the beginning.  

Throughout their journey, the team was supported by an incredible local crew—guides, porters, cooks, and servers—who made their success possible. Their dedication and hospitality left a lasting impression, and the group wanted to give something back in a meaningful way.  

 A Conversation That Sparked Change  

While on the mountain, team member Adam Firth spoke with their Discover Adventure English guide, Christina, about the gender imbalance in the world of mountain guiding. Much like in the electrical and energy industries, the field is overwhelmingly male-dominated—but in Tanzania, the challenges for women are even greater, with limited access to education and high levels of poverty.  

 Adam had a deep personal connection to Tanzania. During university, he was selected to represent UK Sport and spent time in the country organising events to increase female participation in sports, raise HIV awareness, and even held the world’s largest football youth event in the footholds of Moshi, as well 12 months as a tour guide.  

Inspired by this conversation, the team wondered: What could they do to create lasting change? Many had already donated clothing and gear to the local crew, but they wanted to make a real, long-term impact.  

 Meet Elizabeth: A Dream Worth Supporting  

Led by Adam Firth, Audra Fellows, David Boyle, and Steve Robinson, the group turned to Julio, the incredible local team leader, to identify someone who would benefit most from support and had the drive to improve their future. The team was passionate about choosing a female candidate to help address the gender disparity in the industry.  

 That’s when they met Elizabeth.  

At just 19 years old, Elizabeth was working as a server on the mountain while raising her 2-year-old son, Innocent. She had always dreamed of becoming a tour guide, but with limited education opportunities and the high cost of training, she never thought it would be possible—until she met the EIC team.  

After discussions with Elizabeth, Julio, and a local college, 14 team members decided to fund   

Elizabeth’s education and help her achieve her dream.  

 Making Dreams a Reality  

Elizabeth is now five months into her course, studying English and tour guiding while balancing motherhood. She keeps in touch with the team via WhatsApp, sharing updates on her progress, and Adam regularly checks in with both her and her headmaster.  

Once she completes her course, Elizabeth will earn a diploma and officially become a qualified tour guide—opening doors to a brighter future for both her and Innocent.  

 A Journey That Comes Full Circle  

Reflecting on the experience, Adam shared:  

“Tanzania holds a special place in my heart, and climbing Kilimanjaro was a personal dream. The EIC made it possible, and from start to finish, the trip was exceptionally well-organised. Beyond the challenge itself, what stood out was how—despite coming from different parts of the industry we were all passionate about one thing: helping others and giving back. The local crew had a huge impact on me, and I’m so proud we could support Elizabeth. She’s the real hero.”  

Adam now hopes to return to Tanzania to celebrate Elizabeth’s graduation, and he’s not the only on, several team members are eager to reunite and see the impact of their efforts firsthand.  

 Leaving a Lasting Legacy  

Elizabeth’s journey is just one example of the power of opportunity and support. The entire team is humbled and inspired by her determination, and their generosity has not only changed her life but also set an example for empowering women in the industry.  

This is more than just a trek—it’s a legacy of change.