GCI Gear Distribution Recipient 2023
What is the mission of Women in the Wadi?
Women in the Wadi is aiming to make rock climbing accessible for all women from different backgrounds. We are building a growing community of female climbers within the MENA region whilst also encouraging those who aspire to become outdoor guides. Our mission is to welcome women from all continents and countries, from all religions and beliefs, women of all color and ages. We carve out time to share each other's practices and teachings to complement the overall experience, whilst guiding women into beginning or continuing their climbing journey. We create a safe space for women to acknowledge their strength and facilitate their well being by discovering ways in which to be fully present and explore expressing themselves through movement. Not only do we focus on women, but also on creating a positive learning space for children to explore their self identity and strengths by learning about themselves with social interaction, communication and decision making exercises.
What is the history of your organization?
WITW launched its first event in January 2021, without any expectations of how it would take form. We announced a day-long event within our network, thinking we would have a relaxed day of climbing and bouldering together in Dahab's Wadi Gnai, Egypt. We were stoked to host a big turn out of almost 20 women, which is pretty big for a small coastal town along the Red Sea. Harnesses and shoes were ready to take on the day! Since then, we have been hosting regular events to keep bringing this community together as we realized just how powerful the collective experience was. And we were motivated by everyone's enthusiasm and excitement for the next one. We do not only spend the day climbing during our events; we also invite the women who participate to share their practices with the group. We have had yoga sessions, sound healing, chanting, guided meditation, movement therapy and any chance to dance to our favorite beats is always welcomed. WITW is made up of a diverse group of women who come together with the intention to support one another, sharing our love for the sport of rock climbing and being outdoors.
Photos by Gen Morris
What are your current programs/areas of work?
We love hosting outdoor retreats to connect with like-minded individuals in the wilderness, whether in the hub of Sinai mountains or internationally. Our retreats include Yoga and sound meditation, amongst many other good things in life. We are keen to share the experience, knowledge and teaching styles of our female instructors by offering trips for all genders, beginners and advanced climbers. We also facilitate climbing activities for private groups (family & friends) and corporate team building, to share those empowering sensations that come with the sport amidst the picturesque Sinai mountains or elsewhere. In addition, we are putting together a new program for young people called “Class without walls”. Our aim is to create a dynamic and engaging program that inspires young people to embrace the fun and educational opportunities available in the great outdoors. Learning in outdoor environments can have numerous benefits, including fostering creativity, critical thinking, and a deeper connection with nature and the community.
What positive impacts are you creating?
WITW shares the strength, confidence and determination of female climbers and its guides who persevere in spite of the obstacles they may face. Through communication and experiences, we are subtly breaking the barriers and building connections in the climbing community within the MENA region to reinforce a more positive collective experience. Those that attend our events and trips, leave with having overcome fears and feel inspired to not only transfer their new found confidence into a new passion but also within their personal lives.
Photos by Gen Morris
What are your organization's goals/vision for the future?
Our instructors are looking forward to continuing to expand on their professional skills in rock climbing. Through education and travel, they are keen to add to their experience and connect with climbing communities around the world and share their vision. Scouting for new locations for upcoming retreats also gives them a great buzz! This knowledge can then be passed on to even more women and the upcoming generation of climbers in Egypt and the Middle East, who have less access to these possibilities. Our dream is to host or collaborate with other outdoor guides and companies to help us keep providing courses and events within the MENA region. In turn, it will enhance the skill set within its community and encourage the growth of this wonderful sport by igniting a spark within its climbers of the future.