Abuse survivor Leonie Viljoen is gearing up to climb Africa’s highest peak, Kilimanjaro, this month as a powerful statement of solidarity for the girl who has been told her pain is private and for the countless women silenced by fear.
Bellville, South Africa (13 June 2025) – Far too many women suffer behind closed doors in our country, and abuse survivor Leonie Viljoen is taking a bold step; in fact, she’s climbing Kilimanjaro to empower those silenced by fear.
Leonie, who twice survived abuse during her lifetime, has decided to ascend Mount Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain peak in Africa, to raise awareness for the women-led organisation 1000 Women Trust and its initiatives, which support women who have been subjected to gender-based violence.
The mother of two toddlers shared that taking on the 5895-metre climb wasn’t for the thrill or the glory of the photos at the top of the mountain but in support of the women who have endured pain deeper than any crevasse on that mountain.
“I climb for women subjected to gender-based violence whose fight is steeper, their endurance greater, and their courage unlimited,” Leonie said.
The organisation she is doing it for, the 1000 Women Trust, has created initiatives for women to report sexual abuse without fear.
“Each step I take is for the woman silenced by fear. For the girl told her pain is private. For the survivor who wakes up every day and chooses to keep going. The altitude will test my body, but it’s their stories that weigh on my heart. And it’s their strength that will push me higher,” she said.
“Many women suffer sexual abuse and don’t know what their rights are or what the appropriate and meaningful next steps should look like.
“Many suffer psychologically, and the abuse can drive them to the edge of despair, instead of reporting it.
“And that is where an organisation like 1000 Women Trust is enormously helpful,” said Leonie.
1000 Women Trust offers trauma training, programmes, shelter and a sense of safety and instils fierce belief for women to live free from fear.
When she ascends Kilimanjaro, Leonie hopes to also raise enough for the charity to expand its services and establish an even wider and deeper footprint.
Leonie is a member of a party of eight who will climb Kilimanjaro over eight days from 25 June.
She has also extended an invitation to others who may want to support the cause through a virtual walk where participants complete the 5,895m distance at their own time, location, and pace. Those interested in entering can pop an email to intern@1000women.co.za.
“Climbing Kilimanjaro has been a goal of mine since 2018. I climb with passion and purpose,” Leonie said.
“This is me showing up, for myself and the millions of women who have been/is exposed to GBV. Help me turn every meter I ascend into a step toward justice, dignity, and healing,” she added.
To support her heartfelt cause, visit Leonie’s GivenGain page.
Sources: Supplied
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