Trekking for Girls' Education in Bhutan

In October this year, four of us, Susie Pitts, Heather McNeice,  Krista Waddell and Jeremy Pitts, are off to Bhutan in the Himalayas to complete the Jomolhari trek. Over seven days, we'll be attempting to complete a section of what has become known as "the toughest trek in the world", covering a distance of more than 135 kms, reaching an altitude of just under 5,000 metres. 

The trek is a personal challenge for each of us and for which we are training hard! It is also a great opportunity for us to support the Australian Himalayan Foundation, working with RENEW in Bhutan, to fund girls' education. RENEW was set up by Bhutan's queen in 2004 to "Respect, Educate, Nurture and Empower Women". One of its functions is to give girls access to an education they would otherwise never have. Children in rural Bhutan often live several days' walk from their nearest school which makes boarding their only option. Although the annual cost of boarding is just $100, this is a huge sum for many Bhutanese families and, as a result, girls in particular miss out on an education. Many of the girls funded by RENEW's education program have very difficult family circumstances, reflecting RENEW's focus on helping victims of domestic violence.

This will be Heather's third trip to Bhutan, and her second fundraising trek for the Australian Himalayan Foundation and RENEW. Last year, in Bhutan, Heather met with Dr Meenakshi Rai and Ms Pema Lhazom of RENEW. Heather also met two girls who are supported by the RENEW education program and saw first hand the difference just $100 can make to the life of a young girl who would not otherwise be able to go to school.  

All the money we raise will go directly to fund girls' education in Bhutan. Our travel expenses have been paid for completely by us. It's a fantastic cause - please support us! Donations can be made via this page and it's all tax deductible. We'd love you to become part of our journey.

Thanks so much,

Susie, Heather, Krista and Jeremy