In this CityLead session, guest speaker Ginger Martin, the President and CEO of American National Bank in Broward County, Florida shared her story of climbing Mt. Kilimanjaro to raise awareness and funds to fight human trafficking and the inspirational lessons she learned along the way. 

If you are facing anything difficult in your life right now, whether in your business, career, health, finances, or family, we hope her words will be an encouragement to you. 

Climb Your Mountain

Over a journey of six days and seven nights, Ginger Martin and 19 others climbed over 13,000 feet in elevation to reach the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro, the highest freestanding mountain in the world, at a height of 19,341 feet. Through nerves and altitude sickness, most of the team made it to the summit and raised $800,000 to fight human trafficking along the way. 

1. Compelling Why

Raising support, training, and then the long, difficult journey to the top of Mt. Kilimanjaro would have prevented Ginger from reaching her goal if she hadn’t had the “why” of fighting human trafficking. 

What can we learn from this?

• In whatever thing you’re trying to accomplish, have a bigger reason than yourself. 
• What is the dream, goal, passion, or breakthrough you want? The answer can become your “why.”

2. The power of a team

Without her team to provide encouragement, porters to carry the supplies, and her guide to show her the way, Ginger would have been lost in the journey to the top of the mountain. 

What can we learn from this?

• Have a mentor, supporter, or advocate who has been where you’re going and can show you the way.
• Gather your team around you– whether it’s your family, friends, co-workers, or even your CityLead family.

3. “Pole, pole”

“Pole, pole” is Swahili for “slowly, slowly.” These words were a constant reminder on the trail to not take the mountain too quickly. 

What can we learn from this?

• Pace yourself. Be patient. 
• Don’t burn yourself out.
• Remember: You don’t sprint from the bottom of the mountain to the top.

4. Take one more step

When you feel overwhelmed and alone and want to throw in the towel, don’t. Life is an uphill battle. We don’t just coast to success. 

• Keep moving in the direction of your goals. 
• Take another step and go climb your mountain! 

If you liked what you read and want more content like this, or are interested in hosting your own CityLead gathering, contact cameron@citylead.com for more information.