My Journey: From Porter to Kilimanjaro Guide and Founder

Growing up on Kilimanjaro

I was born and raised on the slopes of Mt. Kilimanjaro, Africa’s tallest mountain and the heart of so many incredible journeys. Growing up in its shadow, I developed a deep connection to the mountain and the wildlife that thrives around it, especially in places like the Serengeti and the Ngorongoro Crater. These landscapes weren’t just backdrops to my childhood. They were my playground, my classroom, and eventually, my calling.

Starting as a porter

My career began at the very base of the mountain, as a porter, carrying loads for trekkers hoping to reach the summit. It was hard work, but it was also where my dream took root. On one of those early climbs, I had the life-changing opportunity to meet two trekkers, Jane and Bob, who believed in my potential. Thanks to their generosity and support, I was able to pursue a degree in Wildlife Conservation and Tourism at Mweka Wildlife College.

Education and opportunity

That education changed everything. It gave me the knowledge and tools to pair with my lived experience on the mountain. I even spent a year in the United States, where I studied further and worked as a Basecamp Technician for GCU Outdoor Recreation.

Learning beyond Tanzania

During that time, I explored some of America’s most iconic hiking trails — from Camelback Mountain and Humphreys Peak in Arizona, to challenging 14ers like Culebra Peak, El Diente, Tabeguache, and Pyramid Peak in Colorado. I even completed a Via Ferrata in Telluride, a thrilling new kind of adventure for me.

Travel has broadened my perspective, taking me across 12 U.S. states and to countries like Malaysia and Singapore.

Returning to Kilimanjaro

But no matter where I go, my heart always returns to Kilimanjaro. With over 90 successful summits, I bring both deep expertise and personal passion to every trek I guide.

Building Operation Kilimanjaro

Today, as the founder of my own tour company, Operation Kilimanjaro, I’m proud to share the beauty of Tanzania with people from around the world. Whether you’re climbing Kilimanjaro, exploring the wildlife of the Serengeti, or visiting local communities, my goal is to make your experience unforgettable, safe, and deeply connected to the land and its people.