Born: 1984 (Khumjung, Nepal)
Biography:
Pasang Lhamu Sherpa Akita (born 1984) is a renowned Nepali Sherpa mountaineer who has made significant contributions to the world of mountaineering and has played an active role in earthquake relief efforts in Nepal. She has broken barriers and shattered glass ceilings, becoming a source of inspiration for women around the world.
Born in Khumjung and raised in Lukla, Pasang Lhamu’s journey to becoming a mountaineering pioneer started from humble beginnings. Tragedy struck her family at a young age when her father passed away. Then, at the age of 15, she lost her mother, leaving her and her younger sister orphaned. Determined to overcome these challenges, Pasang Lhamu and her sister relocated to Kathmandu, where she completed her high school studies and discovered her passion for mountaineering.
In pursuit of her dreams, Pasang Lhamu entered training at Conrad Anker’s Khumbu Climbing Center. This experience served as a stepping stone for her future achievements in the field of mountaineering. Further enhancing her skills and knowledge, she earned a diploma in mountaineering from the prestigious École nationale du ski et de l’alpinisme (ENSA) in Chamonix, France.
Pasang Lhamu made history by becoming the first woman in Nepal to become a mountaineering instructor. As a highly respected instructor, she has trained and inspired numerous aspiring mountaineers, both men and women, passing on her knowledge and expertise.
In 2007, Pasang Lhamu achieved a major milestone in her career when she successfully climbed Mount Everest, the world’s highest peak. This feat was all the more significant as it honored the memory of another climber, also named Pasang Lhamu Sherpa, who had tragically lost her life during the descent after becoming the first Nepali woman to conquer Everest fourteen years earlier.
Setting her sights even higher, Pasang Lhamu became part of a three-woman team that accomplished the extraordinary feat of ascending K2, the second-highest mountain in the world, in 2014. This achievement marked a historic moment, as it was the first time a team of Nepali women had conquered this challenging peak. The expedition was dedicated to raising awareness about climate change and took place on the 60th anniversary of the mountain’s first ascent.
Pasang Lhamu’s mountaineering prowess extends beyond Everest and K2. She has also summited other renowned peaks, including Nangpai Gosum II, Yala Peak, Ama Dablam, Lobuche, Imja Tse, and Aconcagua. Not limited to Nepal alone, Pasang Lhamu has also guided mountaineering expeditions in the United States, Argentina, France, and Pakistan, bringing her expertise to the international stage.
In addition to her remarkable achievements as a mountaineer, Pasang Lhamu has also made a significant impact through her humanitarian work. Following the devastating April 2015 earthquake in Nepal, she played a vital role in the relief efforts. Pasang Lhamu distributed blankets, helped create shelters for the homeless, organized temporary medical facilities, coordinated relief convoys, and prevented the trafficking of earthquake victims. Demonstrating her commitment to empowering women, she is currently developing a foundation aimed at supporting women’s education in Nepal.
Pasang Lhamu’s personal strength and resilience are evident in her ability to overcome challenges and make a lasting impact on society. Alongside her mountaineering endeavors and relief work, she has occasionally worked at her family’s restaurant in Louisville, Colorado. Her dedication to her craft and her unwavering spirit make her a true role model for aspiring climbers and women worldwide.
Awards:
– National Geographic’s People’s Choice Adventurer of the Year (2016)
– 45th International Alpine Solidarity Award (presented in Pinzolo, Italy)