From supporting local communities and animal welfare to connecting people with nature, Kusudi La creates meaningful experiences through every adventure and invites new climbers to join their 2026 expedition.
Johannesburg, South Africa (10 October 2025) – Kusudi La, meaning “for purpose” in Swahili, brings people together who want adventure to mean more than just travel. At the helm is Stephanie Brown, working with an amazing team whose climbs have raised funds for animal welfare since 2012.
Registered as a nonprofit in 2021, Kusudi La has grown into a powerful community of purpose-driven adventurers.
“We’re now talking about climbing for good, and that’s the model we’re working around,” Stephanie explains.
Their latest climb raised R340,000 of the R400,000 goal to refurbish the Sandton SPCA’s clinic kennels and fencing. Even though the climb is over, Kusudi La is still encouraging donations to help them reach that final target. Ensuring the project can be completed and the animals receive care.
One of the climbers on that journey was Troy Motsime, who first crossed paths with Kusudi La over a decade ago.
“Then 14-year-old Troy, joined the day so that climbers could experience first-hand the work of the SPCA in the community.”
This year, Troy now grown and successfully summited Kilimanjaro, is helping raise funds for the very cause that first inspired him.
Kusudi La’s heart lies in community connection and compassion.
“At Kusudi La, we believe that small steps, small things when taken together can make a big impact. That’s why we care about how we do things, always looking for ways to support local people and our community.”
One of those people is Catherine, a talented crocheter who lost an eye to cancer in 2018.
“Catherine crochets our mini mascots small figures climbers carry on their day packs. We also sell them to raise funds for our causes and to support Catherine and her family.”
The mascots have become a symbol of resilience handwoven reminders that every stitch and step contributes to something greater.
Beyond fundraising, Stephanie believes the mountains themselves heal and unite.
“Being outdoors refreshes and reconnects you. You don’t need much, just a pair of shoes, some water, and an open heart. Nature grounds you and reminds you what really matters.”
The climbs themselves are powerful agents of change for animals, communities, and participants. Stephanie remembers the summit moments that make it all worthwhile.
“I remember one climber saying, ‘I can’t, I can’t breathe. I can’t keep going.’ I told her, ‘Of course you can, because you’re talking to me right now. You’re breathing. You can do this.’”
She watched that climber find the strength to finish, and the tears at the summit made every step count.
Kusudi La is already planning its next Kilimanjaro summit. As the team looks ahead to the 2026 Kilimanjaro Summit, they are inviting more people to join the journey. Those who want their adventure to have purpose, and their climb to leave something meaningful behind.
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Sources: GTG Interview
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