Breaking Barriers: Singaporean Women Conquer Everest & K2

In celebration of International Women’s Day, we honor the resilience and determination of women pushing boundaries in the outdoors.

On July 27, 2023, Vincere Zeng and Sim Phei Sunn made history as the first Singaporean women to summit both Mount Everest and K2—a feat few climbers worldwide have achieved. Their journey wasn’t just about conquering mountains; it was about defying limits and inspiring others to reach for new heights.

A Test of Strength & Perseverance

K2, often called the "Savage Mountain," is considered one of the world’s most treacherous climbs due to extreme weather and technical difficulty. Zeng and Sim battled heavy snowfall, powerful winds, and unpredictable conditions, waiting for a small window of clear skies to make their final push to the summit.

For Zeng, a 31-year-old IT transformation manager, K2 marked the culmination of a climbing journey that began with Mount Kilimanjaro in 2015. Sim, a 47-year-old civil servant, had already completed the Seven Summits challenge and saw K2 as the ultimate test of her mountaineering skills.

Empowering Women in the Outdoors

Their achievement is a powerful reminder that women belong in every space—including the highest peaks on Earth. Whether it’s climbing mountains, leading expeditions, or simply taking the first step into an outdoor adventure, every woman has the strength to push past barriers.

This International Women’s Day, we celebrate the boldness of women like Zeng and Sim—those who dare to dream big, embrace challenges, and redefine what’s possible.

Credits: https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/it-manager-and-civil-servant-become-first-s-porean-women-to-summit-world-s-two-highest-peaks