14-05-2025
Wellness coach prepares to conquer Kilimanjaro for survivors of gender-based violence
Leonie Viljoen, a wellness coach from Boston, Bellville, is preparing to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, at the end of June. This ambitious undertaking is not merely for adventure; rather, it is a poignant mission to raise awareness and funds for the women-led organisation, 1000 Women Trust, which aims to provide safe spaces for women who have been victims of gender-based violence.
Leonie Viljoen, a wellness coach from Boston, Bellville, is preparing to conquer Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest peak in Africa, at the end of June. This ambitious undertaking is not merely for adventure; rather, it is a poignant mission to raise awareness and funds for the women-led organisation, 1000 Women Trust, which aims to provide safe spaces for women who have been victims of gender-based violence.
Leonie Viljoen, a dedicated wellness coach and mother of two, is set to embark on a monumental journey to the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro as she champions the cause for survivors of gender-based violence.
Viljoen reveals that this undertaking is a poignant mission to raise awareness and funds for the women-led organisation, 1000 Women Trust, which aims to provide safe spaces for women who have been victims of gender-based violence.
Her journey is deeply personal; having survived abuse, she says she understands the struggles many women face daily and as a mother of two toddlers, her commitment to this cause is fuelled by the desire to create a better world for her children and the countless other women like her.
She is part of a group of eight climbers who will embark on their eight-day journey starting June 25.
'I do this for the women who've endured pain deeper than any crevasse on that mountain. I climb for those subjected to gender-based violence whose fight is steeper, their endurance greater, and their courage unlimited.'
She also emphasises that this climb is a tribute to every woman silenced by fear and every girl told that her pain is private.
'Many women suffer sexual abuse and don't know what their rights are or what the appropriate and meaningful next steps should look like. The psychological impact often drives them to the edge of despair instead of empowering them to report it. That is where an organisation like 1000 Women Trust becomes a lifeline.'
Through initiatives like trauma training courses and the GBV-Warriors initiative, 1000 Women Trust offers a sanctuary and the unwavering belief that every woman deserves to live without fear. As Viljoen prepares for her ascent, she aims to raise crucial funds to support the expansion of the trust's services and enhance their impact.
'Help me turn every metre I ascend into a step toward justice, dignity, and healing,' she urged. 'Join me. Support 1000 Women Trust. And together, let's rise - higher than we ever thought possible.'
Showcasing her resilience in overcoming her personal battles to reach this significant milestone she says, 'Climbing Kilimanjaro has been a goal of mine since 2018. I climb with passion and purpose.'
Viljoen has invited supporters to join her in a creative way by participating in a virtual walk, where individuals can complete the distance at their own pace and location.
'I want to call women to action to do the Kilimanjaro event in their own time and place,' she said.
Saturday Star
