Muslim hikers take on the challenge of Everest and raise 58,000 euros for solidarity

More than thirty Muslim hikers recently reached the base camp of Mount Everest, at the end of a human and solidarity challenge which made it possible to raise nearly 58,000 euros for the benefit of the charity Charity Right, committed to the fight against childhood hunger by financing school meals. The initiative mobilized participants from several countries and drew attention to an approach that is still little visible in the outdoor world.

An initiative born from a lack of representation

At the origin of this expedition is Haroon Mota, founder of the Muslim Hikers collective, based in Coventry, United Kingdom. A mountain enthusiast for more than twenty years, he explains that he has long noticed the absence of people from minorities, and in particular Muslims, in outdoor activities. This under-representation, experienced as a lack of models and visibility, led him to create Muslim Hikers in order to make the adventure more accessible.

A grueling expedition, between physical surpassing and collective solidarity

This third expedition to Everest took place in particularly trying conditions. The walkers faced temperatures that could drop as low as -20°C, as well as extreme altitude where the scarcity of oxygen puts organisms to the test. Haroon Mota himself left despite a long Covid, contracted several months earlier, which considerably complicated the physical effort. A lung infection and high fever even almost led to his evacuation by helicopter. Despite these difficulties, all 33 participants reached base camp, a rare success which highlights the preparation, discipline and solidarity of the group.

The expedition brought together varied profiles, from the United Kingdom, but also from the United States, Australia and the Middle East. Everyone shared a collective experience of fatigue, surpassing oneself and moments of pause. Participants prayed together, shared halal meals and experienced the mountain as a space for reconnection, both with nature and with their faith. Beyond the sporting challenge and the amount collected, this adventure above all reveals another way of occupying the natural space. Long absent from the dominant narratives of mountaineering and exploration, Muslims are asserting themselves here as full, visible and committed actors. By creating these collective experiences, Muslim Hikers helps to break clichés, encourage new vocations and provide positive models.

This dynamic is long-term. Last year, the collective organized 32 events bringing together more than 4,000 people, mainly in the United Kingdom. A new trek to Everest is already planned for November and is sold out, proof of a growing enthusiasm for an adventure where sport, spirituality and solidarity advance together.