Little man takes on big mountain
Tshego is climbing Mount Kilimanjaro for a good cause
“You are never too small or too young to make a difference. I encourage everyone to dream big and work hard to accomplish those dreams.”
These are the words of Tshego Hatang, a Grade 4 learner at Victory House Private School in Florida, who will be taking on Mount Kilimanjaro with his father Sello, and a group of about 20 hikers. “We will be climbing for a good cause as well, as we will be raising money to buy sanitary towels for underprivileged girls, to help them to not miss any school days.
Our climb will start on 5 August, and we are planning to summit on 9 August, which is Women’s Day,” he explained.
He will be the youngest member of the expedition.
But, what made him decide to take on the highest mountain in Africa? “My mom and dad completed the climb last year, and it was a huge inspiration to me. I told my dad that I would also love to join them, and, here I am, ready to also be part of this experience,” he said excitedly.
He added that, even though his father has told him that it is not an easy journey, he is not nervous at all. “I am not nervous or scared, just excited! My dad said that the journey might be a bit more difficult this year, because there will be a lot more snow, I cannot wait to start the climb. Of course I have not seen snow yet, and cannot wait to experience that as well,” said Tshego.
Tshego said that they started their preparations for the climb in March this year, and their training included hiking and climbing in the Drakensberg Mountains, the Suikerbos hiking trail, the Hennops hiking trail as well as the hiking trails in the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens. “But, I have not received all of my hiking gear yet, as they did not have everything in my size!” he said, laughing.
He added that, although he has seen some pictures and videos pertaining to the climb, he is not entirely sure what to expect, and said, “It does not change my feeling of excitement, as I know my dad will be by my side every step of the way to help me.”
Jennifer Austen, the Deputy Principal of the Senior Primary said, “We are extremely proud of Tshego and think it is a phenomenal achievement. The fact that he is a huge inspiration to the other learners as well is a big bonus.”
For more information visit the following Facebook pages; https://www.facebook.com/Trek4Mandela/ and https://www.facebook.com/Imbumba-Foundation-302399283150403/
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