Joined by a team of 40 volunteers who braved extreme altitudes, sub-zero night temperatures, and intense physical exhaustion, Andrew Barton successfully reached the summit of Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak.
Together the group has raised more than £100,000 to support Kidscape’s mission to provide children with practical support and safety.
The cause is deeply personal for Andrew. Having been a victim of severe bullying throughout his childhood, to the point of several suicide attempts, he spent much of his youth in hiding. It was only upon starting a hairdressing apprenticeship that he found a “safe space,” discovering the passion and purpose that would eventually lead to his award-winning career.
“Bullying can leave lasting scars. Climbing Kilimanjaro was one of the toughest things I’ve ever done, but it pales in comparison to what some children go through every single day. If this challenge helps even one child feel seen and supported, it was worth every step,” – Andrew.
The expedition featured several prominent figures from the hair industry, including Daniel Lustig-Webb (Hairdresser and star of Channel 4’s Gogglebox), Tracey Harris (Racoon International Educator), and independent Salon Owners.
The journey has been captured for two upcoming film projects:
For more information on the climb, or to donate, please visit:
https://givestar.io/gs/barty-kilimanjaro-challenge.
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