2. Scaling New Heights: Empowering Women in the Blue Economy on the Path

Scaling New Heights: Empowering Women in the Blue Economy on the Path

Kelly Clark
from €5,000 (78%)

What motivates me is the opportunity to help others, particularly women in the workplace, by empowering them to achieve their full potential and creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for everyone.

I am partnering with Voluntary Services Overseas and my employer, Randstad, to raise money to support women entrepreneurs and building a better blue economy in Tanzania.

As part of this fundraising challenge, I’ll be climbing Mount Kilimanjaro in February 2025 alongside several of my Randstad colleagues from across the globe! It’s a 6-day trek covering over 50 miles, and I’ve already begun my training and fundraising efforts. Your support would mean the world to me as I embark on this personal journey to make a difference in my life and the lives of women in Tanzania.

Any contribution you can make would be greatly appreciated!

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€100 12-01-2025 | 20:16
€50 11-01-2025 | 03:32 Good luck, Kelly!!!
€50 09-01-2025 | 01:35 You are an inspiration Kelly!! Get it done! 💪🏼
€15 08-01-2025 | 23:10 I donated because giving back is my way of contributing to a better, more compassionate world and specially for improving these women lifes in Africa!
€50 08-01-2025 | 22:26
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Hiking Grundy Forest: A Step Closer to Kilimanjaro

 27-12-2024 | 10:54 As part of my preparation for the Kilimanjaro climb, I’ve been exploring trails that challenge both body and spirit. Thanksgiving weekend, I had the privilege of hiking Grundy Forest with my sister-in-law, brother-in-law, and their dog Piper. Nestled in the heart of Tennessee, Grundy Forest offers a perfect mix of beauty and challenge, making it an ideal training ground for my upcoming adventure.A Family AffairHiking with family added a special layer of warmth to the experience. My sister-in-law, ever the encourager, brought her infectious enthusiasm, while my brother-in-law, a steady and seasoned hiker, kept us motivated and grounded. Piper, their energetic and adventurous dog, brought an extra dose of joy to the trail, bounding ahead and stopping to sniff every intriguing scent. Together, we formed a dynamic group ready to tackle the forest’s twists and turns.The Trail ExperienceGrundy Forest greeted us with its serene ambiance. Towering trees swayed gently, their leaves forming a canopy that filtered the sunlight into soft patches. The air was crisp and cool, a perfect complement to the rhythmic crunch of our boots on the trail. We started on the Fiery Gizzard Trail, known for its rugged terrain and breathtaking scenery.The hike wasn’t without its challenges. Rocky paths and steep inclines tested our endurance, but each step felt purposeful—a rehearsal for the far more grueling journey up Kilimanjaro. Along the way, we paused to admire cascading waterfalls and the crystal-clear pools below. Piper’s playful antics near the water provided us with moments of laughter and lightness, reminding us to enjoy the journey as much as the destination.Training for KilimanjaroGrundy Forest is no Kilimanjaro, but it’s an excellent stand-in for building strength, stamina, and mental resilience. The uneven terrain demanded focus, while the ascents mirrored the uphill climbs I’ll face in Tanzania. Hiking with a loaded backpack also gave me a taste of the physical demands ahead. With each step, I imagined the African horizon, fueling my determination to prepare thoroughly.Reflection and GratitudeBeyond the physical workout, this hike was an opportunity to reconnect—with nature, my family, and myself. Sharing the trail with my sister-in-law, brother-in-law, and Piper reminded me of the importance of support systems, both on and off the mountain. Their encouragement, shared laughter, and Piper’s boundless energy made the journey even more meaningful.Grundy Forest also offered a moment to reflect on the purpose behind my Kilimanjaro climb. Partnering with VSO to support women in Tanzania is a cause close to my heart. As I trekked through the forest, I thought about the strength and resilience of the women I hope to impact. Their stories inspire me to keep going, even when the trail gets tough.Looking AheadWith each hike, I feel more prepared and more connected to the journey ahead. Grundy Forest was another step forward, both literally and figuratively. As the Kilimanjaro climb approaches, I’m grateful for the smaller adventures that are shaping me for the larger one.To anyone considering a hike in Grundy Forest, I wholeheartedly recommend it. Whether you’re training for a big climb or simply seeking a day of beauty and connection, this trail has something for everyone. As for me, I’ll carry the memories of this hike—and the support of my family—all the way to the roof of Africa.
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