Josh, Aditya a 17-year-old student at The International School Bangalore (TISB) and a seasoned high-altitude mountaineer, recently returned from a successful expedition to Mount Kilimanjaro (5,895 m), Africa’s tallest peak. In this conversation, he shares insights from the climb and his ambitious goal of scaling the highest mountain on every continent called “7 Summits”.
Q: Congratulations! How was the Kilimanjaro expedition?
Josh: Thank you! Climbing Kilimanjaro via the Machame Route was both demanding and incredibly rewarding. The steep terrain, rapid altitude gain, and the final midnight summit push in extreme winds and –20°C temperatures made it a true test of endurance. But reaching Uhuru Peak at sunrise was an unforgettable and deeply humbling moment.
Q: What did this achievement mean to you personally?
Josh: It reinforced my belief in preparation, mindset, and respect for nature. Every expedition pushes you to grow, physically and mentally.
Q: What are your future mountaineering plans?
Josh: I’ve completed over ten climbs above 5,000 meters, including Mont Blanc expedition and Everest Base Camp Trek. Kilimanjaro was my first of the Seven Summits, and my goal is to complete all seven before I turn 21.
Q: What would you say to other young people with big goals?
Josh: Take the first step, stay consistent, and be ready to work hard. The mountains have taught me that limits are often self-imposed—and always breakable.
