Malawi photos by Kiran Kallur
Our partners at Climb Malawi shared with us that the biggest opportunity for their community’s growth would be investment in the skills of local climbing leaders for route development, gym routesetting, and wilderness first aid.
We’re delighted to share that we received a grant to build an expedition to bring these skills and resources to Malawi. In August 2023, we will be sending athlete-guides Genevive Walker and Mario Stanley along with GCI staff and Climbing Life Kenya Co-Founder Liz Ndindi to lead these skills trainings and establish new routes for the Malawian climbing community.
We are halfway toward our funding goal. Here are you some ways you can support and make this trip a reality.
Donate funds to support the project
WHAT: A 3-week expedition by a team of Black pro-climbers and guides to teach technical skills to the Malawian climbing community and support through the bolting of new routes.
WHY: Climb Malawi has expressed that a lack of technical knowledge and the limited number of routes are critical barriers to growth. By choosing a team of Black climbers, Malawian climbers will be able to better see themselves in the role of expert, and will help counter a legacy of colonialism in climbing.
WHEN: August 2023
AMGA Single Pitch Instructor
AMGA Rock Guide Apprentice
Genevive is professional rock climber and guide with over a decade of climbing experience. Having experienced the disparities and inequalities within the climbing industry, Genevive has a mission to build community and support representation for BIPOC climbers.
Gym Routesetter
Outdoor Climbing Developer
Wilderness First Responder
Mario is the cofounder of HighPoint Expeditions, a climbing coach, and a professional route setter. Mario has dedicated his life to making climbing accessible and inclusive for anyone who wants to come into the sport.
AMGA SPI Candidate
Climbing Organization Founder
GCI Impact Consultant & Africa Regional Coordinator
Liz is the founder of Climbing Life Kenya, a local female-led non-profit dedicated to connecting Kenyans with rock climbing. She is also an Impact Consultant with The Global Climbing Initiative, advising other climbing organizations in their path to growth and success.