Pioneering the Heights: Oksana Kushnir’s remarkable climb to the world’s peaks

Special Feature 08:08 - 05 November 2024

People

Oksana Kushnir, a pioneer in more ways than one, has etched her name in history as the first Cypriot woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest, along with other towering giants like Lhotse and Manaslu.

A businesswoman, investor, and mother of two, Kushnir’s roots are a blend of Cypriot and Ukrainian heritage. Her mountaineering journey began almost ten years ago when her husband, an avid climber, invited her to join him on an expedition. That initial climb sparked a passion, evolving into a family tradition and fueling her determination to tackle some of the world’s most challenging peaks.

For Kushnir, the mountains are more than a physical challenge—they are a source of freedom, renewal, and self-discovery. “Mountains are freedom; daily routine is death,” she says, highlighting how each climb brings not only a test of physical endurance but a mental journey.

Her ascent of Everest was a long-held dream realized through meticulous preparation, intense physical training, and unwavering mental fortitude. The experience of reaching these heights has left her with lessons that extend beyond the mountain slopes, teaching her patience, resilience, and a belief in pushing past her limits.

Kushnir’s story is an inspiring reminder that dreams are within reach when pursued with courage and determination. Her passion for climbing—and for life—is a testament to the power of setting and conquering one’s own peaks.

Pioneering the Heights: Oksana Kushnir’s remarkable climb to the world’s peaks

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