A 44-year-old Samoan woman, Rosita Afele, has conquered the world’s tallest mountain after 14 days of living on the edge.
The Melbourne-based Afele from Lefagaoali’i Savai’i, Falealili and Lotofaga Safata, completed the challenge last month.
Speaking to the Samoa Observer, Ms. Afele, said it’s a moment in her life she would always remember.
The realization of a dream started 12 months ago with an idea.
She said I’d like to think I am a free spirited person; I love adventures and travelling has always been a dream.”
Trekking up the mountain often referred to as the death zone never entered her mind until a year ago. This was a massive undertaking and it was mainly driven by the soul.
It took a year of training to prepare for the feat.
“I know we Samoans don’t do this kind of thing. We don’t dream of trekking or climbing mountains. We are not encouraged to have individual dreams and goals. We are more about goals for the good of the extended family and community.
“So at first, my Samoan friends and family were kind of shocked but those who know me understood, as I’ve always been a weird kind of fob.”
However, she said that the whole experience was the most challenging and rewarding experience she has ever had.
“I’ve encountered many challenges in my life, and been fortunate with some achievements … but perhaps in the process have learnt very little,” she said.
“But this has been the most profound and humbling experience of my life.
She said, “It took everything I had … my inflated ego, pride, self confidence in my physical, mental abilities, and in my conviction …. Leaving me cold, vulnerable and guilty of the intrusion, but reminding me of what matters is ‘each breath in the moment’.
Unfortunately, when she reached the top Ms. Afele wasn’t able to implant a Samoan flag at the peak of Mt Everest.
However, she had a Samoan cap with the Samoan flag on it which she had left behind as remembrance of her trip to Everest Base Camp.
