“Mountain climbing has shaped my life. Inspired by S Anand Kumar, who summitted Mt. Everest in 2014, I decided to pursue mountaineering. Growing up in a small village Kishanpura, Hanamkonda, I found joy in climbing trees and swimming. As I grew older, the desire to go higher led me to rock climbing and eventually mountaineering.

My father, an auto driver, worked tirelessly to send me to school. After completing my Diploma, I worked in a private company while excelling in 5k and 10k marathons. Encouraged by local representatives, I joined the Bhongir Rock Climbing School and embarked on a journey that took me to Africa’s highest peak, Mount Kilimanjaro, alongside the renowned mountaineer Shekhar Babu.

The 10-day trek was a dream come true. As we ascended, oxygen levels dropped, and challenges grew. Despite the difficulties, I pressed on. Before this, I conquered Mt. Stok Kangri in Ladakh and later, Panger Chulla’s peak trek in Nepal. Successfully summiting Mount Elbrus in Russia, the highest in Europe at 5,642 m, was a proud moment.

On August 15, 2021, at 8.30 am, amid heavy winds and freezing temperatures, I stood on the highest peak of Africa. The journey, filled with surreal moments, opened me up to new possibilities. My family, well-wishers, and local government support made these summits possible. Their initial worry turned into immense pride and happiness upon learning about my successes.

Mountaineering taught me valuable life lessons, and despite financial constraints, my family always encouraged my pursuits. My next target is Mount Everest, and I eagerly look forward to scaling it, making my parents and well-wishers even prouder.”

• Akhil, Mountaineer from Hanamkonda in Telangana