Saray Khumalo: The First African Woman to Reach the Top of Mount Everest

Introduction to a Trailblazer

In May 2019, Saray Khumalo made history by becoming the first Black African woman to summit Mount Everest. Born in Zambia and based in South Africa, Khumalo is more than a record-breaking mountaineer—she’s a symbol of resilience, determination, and purpose-driven leadership.

Climbing with a Purpose

Saray’s journey to the top of the world was not just for personal glory. Her mission was deeply rooted in creating access to education for African children. Through her initiative, Summits With a Purpose, she uses her mountain expeditions to raise funds for building libraries and classrooms across South Africa.

Her climbs are not just about testing physical limits—they’re about bringing hope and resources to communities in need. With every meter she ascends, Saray uplifts others along the way.

The Road to Everest

Before finally reaching the Everest summit in 2019, Saray Khumalo faced numerous challenges. Her earlier attempts in 2014, 2015, and 2017 were halted by avalanches, earthquakes, and personal injuries. These failures didn’t stop her—instead, they fueled her passion and resolve.

Her persistence paid off on May 16, 2019, when she reached the summit and waved the South African flag high above the clouds. That moment was a turning point—not just in her life, but in African mountaineering history.

A Leader On and Off the Mountains

Outside her mountaineering feats, Saray is a business executive, keynote speaker, and advocate for women empowerment. She balances her adventurous pursuits with a successful corporate career, making her a true example of what’s possible with passion and focus.

Khumalo also uses her platform to encourage women, especially African women, to dream big and step into spaces where they’ve traditionally been underrepresented.

Impact and Inspiration

Saray Khumalo’s achievement has inspired countless people across Africa and beyond. Her journey shows that mountains—both literal and symbolic—can be overcome with vision, grit, and heart. She has redefined what’s possible for African women in adventure sports, leadership, and social impact. Just as Saray dared to dream big, many others try their luck daily in hopes of changing their lives—whether by climbing a mountain or checking the latest LunchtimeResults in South Africa's lottery. Every dream begins with a step—or a ticket.

Conclusion

Saray Khumalo’s successful summit of Mount Everest is more than just a mountaineering milestone. It’s a powerful story of perseverance, purpose, and breaking barriers. As the first African female to stand on the highest point on Earth, she has paved the way for others to believe in the impossible.

Her legacy reminds us that the climb may be tough, but the view—and the impact—is worth it.