Saray Khumalo is a South African mountaineer who made history by becoming the first black African woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. She achieved this feat on May 16, 2019, after several attempts and overcoming numerous challenges.

Born in Zambia and raised in South Africa, Saray Khumalo initially pursued a career in corporate finance. However, she developed a passion for mountaineering and embarked on a journey to conquer the world’s highest peaks. Prior to her successful Everest summit, she had already climbed Mount Kilimanjaro, Mount Elbrus, and Mount Aconcagua, among others.

Saray Khumalo’s mountaineering expeditions are not only personal challenges but also serve a greater purpose. She aims to raise awareness and support for causes such as education and the empowerment of young girls in South Africa. Through her climbing endeavors, she seeks to inspire others to overcome their own obstacles and reach for their dreams.

Saray Khumalo | #1 Adventure Speaker

Khumalo’s mountaineering journey is characterized by perseverance and resilience. She faced setbacks and dangerous conditions, including the devastating earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015, which led to the cancellation of her Everest expedition at that time. However, she remained determined and continued to pursue her goal.

Beyond her mountaineering achievements, Saray Khumalo is also involved in various philanthropic initiatives. She works with organizations such as the Nelson Mandela Foundation and The Lunchbox Fund, which provide support to underprivileged children in South Africa.

Saray Khumalo’s accomplishments as a mountaineer and her dedication to making a positive impact have earned her recognition and admiration both within South Africa and internationally. She serves as an inspiration to aspiring adventurers and demonstrates the power of perseverance and the pursuit of dreams.

She shares her story through motivational talks and as a keynote speaker to inspire individuals and groups, that it doesn’t matter what you look like or where you come from – you can still change the world.

Saray’s story does not begin nor end with Everest, it is part of her journey, to complete the Explorer’s Grand Slam, a challenge to reach the North Pole, South Pole and all the Seven Summits, in her quest to raise funds to go towards the education of an African child.

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