A journey of self-love and giving back — AWE Summit Scholarship Foundation

Please tell us about your biggest mountaineering ambition or dream. My biggest mountaineering ambition and dream is to conquer the iconic Half Dome. But as much as I'm drawn to those majestic peaks, the journey to get there is deeply rooted in my fear of heights.

Every time I go climbing or hiking, I find myself locked in a silent battle with my own anxiety. The fear of falling or losing your footing on rough terrain gnaws away at the corners of your mind and almost overwhelms you. Despite our best efforts to overcome, there are moments when the weight of our anxiety becomes unbearable and we freeze in place, paralyzed with fear.

In moments of vulnerability like this, I am reminded of the enormity of my climbing ambitions. The thought of climbing Half Dome, with its height and dizzying drops, fills me with a powerful mixture of excitement and fear. But even when fear holds me back, the allure of the summit beckons me forward, forcing me to face my limits and push beyond my comfort zone.

So I keep pushing myself, step by step, knowing that with each climb I get closer to realizing my mountaineering dream. The road ahead may be filled with obstacles and uncertainties, but I will continue to push forward, motivated by the desire to stand atop Half Dome and prove that anything is possible in the face of fear. I am determined to move on.

What do you hope to learn from your experience as a Summit Scholarship recipient?

As a Summit Scholarship recipient, there are several things I hope to learn and experience during my journey. First, I aim to find connections with other non-binary queer individuals who share my sense of community, inclusivity, and love of the outdoors. Building relationships and fostering a supportive network within this community has been extremely meaningful to me.

Second, I want to expand my skills and knowledge. Whether it's mastering navigation techniques or honing your wilderness survival skills, I'm excited to absorb as much information as possible to become a more skilled backpacker.

My top priority is to have fun and create lasting memories. The opportunity to explore breathtaking mountains and connect with like-minded people is something I cherish. I want to embrace every moment with joy and enthusiasm.

Kasia – You are the first recipient to admit that you are inspired every day by the barriers and obstacles you overcome. we love this. Being aware of your strengths and abilities and feeling proud of yourself is one of the most important things in the world of mountaineering, but more importantly in life. To follow Cassia's journey, visit our expedition partner, The Venture Out Project. Instagram or facebook.